Sugunendra Tirtha Lays Foundation for New Venkata Krishna Temple in US
The temple, coming up on approximately four acres of land in Pheonix, with the support of devotees, is being developed at the Matha's first branch in the US
Udupi: Sri Puthige Matha has taken another step towards expanding its religious activities in the United States, with Sri Sugunendra Tirtha Swamiji laying the foundation stone for a new temple complex at Sri Venkata Krishna Kshetra in Phoenix.
The temple, coming up on approximately four acres of land with the support of devotees, is being developed at the Matha's first branch in the United States.
The foundation stone ceremony was held at around 8.15 am during the auspicious Sharad Purnima muhurta, with more than 300 devotees participating.
Raghavendra Bhat Kodancha of Puthige Matha conducted the religious rituals. The utsava murti (processional idol) of Lord Srinivasa was brought to the venue for special worship.
Devotees offered coins, pearls and precious stones as part of the traditional ground-breaking rituals.
Addressing the gathering, Sri Sugunendra Tirtha Swamiji said the proposed temple would be developed as a centre reflecting the grandeur of traditional temple architecture.
He said Sri Venkata Krishna Kshetra would bring together the spiritual significance of Lord Krishna of Udupi and Lord Venkateswara, offering devotees a place for worship and spiritual activities.
Puthige Matha Divan Nagaraja Acharya, International Secretary Prasanna Acharya, temple chief priest Kiran Acharya, donors and devotees were present.