Georgetown, Texas – December 19, 2024 – Harihara Kshetram, the revered temple located in Georgetown, a suburb of Austin, Texas, hosted the Maha Padi Puja of Harihara Putra Ayyappa with unparalleled devotion and grandeur. This spiritually enriching event, held on Thursday at 6 PM local time, was organized by the temple committee and drew Swamis and devotees from across the region to celebrate this auspicious occasion.
The sacred Maha Padi Puja, dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, was led by the temple’s chief priest, Sampath Pandit, and featured elaborate rituals invoking the blessings of Lord Ganapati, Lord Subrahmanyeshwara, and Lord Ayyappa. Devotees experienced a divine ambiance enhanced by soulful Ayyappa bhajans, beautifully rendered by Guru Swami, which filled the temple premises with devotion and unity. The temple committee also distributed alms (Biksha) to the Ayyappa Deeksha Swamis who attended, further emphasizing the temple’s commitment to seva (selfless service).
The event witnessed active participation from prominent Ayyappa Deeksha Swamis, including Hemanth, Rama Rao, Naveen, Naresh, Srikanth, Kiran, Venkatesh, Sandeep, Phanindar, Harsha, Srinu, Satish, Yogesh, Durga, Chandu, Arun, and Vamsi, along with committee members and local devotees. All participants received the divine blessings of Lord Ayyappa, making the evening an unforgettable spiritual experience.
Plans for Expansion and Daily Worship
Harihara Kshetram continues to serve as a spiritual beacon for the Hindu community in Texas, offering regular daily pujas at its Balalayam. Plans are underway for the construction of magnificent Shaiva and Vaishnava temples, including shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Venkateswara, Lord Ganapati, Lord Ayyappa, Goddess Durga, Goddess Lakshmi, and Goddess Saraswati. The upcoming temple complex, to be located at 375 King Rhea, aims to become a central hub for spiritual growth and community gatherings.
The temple has already established itself as a cultural and spiritual anchor, hosting vibrant festivals and special pujas that draw large gatherings of devotees. Recently, the Kalyanam (divine marriage) of Sri Padmavati Venkateswara Swamy was celebrated with grandeur, attracting hundreds of devotees and further solidifying the temple’s role as a focal point for the community’s religious life.
A Growing Spiritual Hub for Austin
Harihara Kshetram’s ongoing spiritual programs, such as the Maha Padi Puja, along with regular pujas and cultural activities, have made it one of the most vibrant Hindu temples in Texas. The temple committee’s commitment to preserving and promoting Sanatan Dharma has helped foster a deep sense of belonging among local Hindu families, who actively participate in the temple’s spiritual and cultural initiatives.
Harihara Kshetram is a revered spiritual sanctuary located in Georgetown, a suburb of Austin, Texas. Dedicated to upholding the timeless traditions of Sanatan Dharma, the temple serves as a spiritual and cultural hub for the Hindu community. Guided by the vision of Dr. Kakkireni Bharath Kumar, Chairman and CEO of KBK Group, Harihara Kshetram blends ancient rituals with modern sensibilities, creating a harmonious space where devotees can deepen their spiritual connections.
Currently operating as a Balalayam, the temple conducts daily pujas, special rituals, and vibrant festival celebrations that draw devotees from across the region. Plans are underway to construct magnificent Shaiva and Vaishnava temples, including shrines for Lord Shiva, Lord Venkateswara, Lord Ganapati, Lord Ayyappa, Goddess Durga, Goddess Lakshmi, and Goddess Saraswati, making the temple a landmark of devotion and community spirit. Through its commitment to spiritual practices, cultural events, and seva (selfless service), Harihara Kshetram has become a beacon of unity, devotion, and cultural enrichment, playing a pivotal role in preserving and promoting Hindu heritage in Texas and beyond.
