Hindu Temple of SiouxLand
State South Dakota
Website: https://hindutemplesd.com
Hindu Temple of SiouxLand (HTOS) is the first Hindu temple in South Dakota located in the city of Tea which is a suburb of Sioux Falls. This temple was opened in 2018 and serves a small Hindu population in the area but it also caters to people of other faiths who want to visit and learn about Hinduism. It is notable as the first Hindu temple to operate in the Dakotas.
More Information
- Location: 46656 270th St, Tea, SD 57064.
- Purpose: The temple practices the ideals of Hinduism through worship, education, and community involvement. It also aims to recognize and respect other faiths and bring forth common ideals, while enriching the social and cultural diversity of the Siouxland area.
- History: The temple’s establishment was a culmination of efforts that began in 2009 to accommodate the growing South Asian and Hindu community in the region. The grand opening was held on October 14, 2018, marking the realization of a nearly decade-long dream for the community.
- Open to Everyone: The temple is open to everyone, regardless of their religious background. Visitors are welcome to observe or participate in worship.
- Community Support: The temple relies on community support for its operations and fundraising efforts, especially in challenging times.
Deities Worshipped
The Hindu Temple of SiouxLand (HTOS) worships several deities, which are honored during daily rituals and specific weekly pujas. The temple serves as a central place of worship for the local community, which may also choose a personal deity (Ishta Devata) for worship at home.
Prominent deities at HTOS
The following deities have a significant place in the temple’s worship:
- Lord Shiva: The temple holds a special Abhishekam (ritual bathing) and Aarti for Shiva on Mondays.
- Lord Venkateshwara (an avatar of Vishnu): A puja is dedicated to Venkateshwara on Thursdays, with special festivals for him announced throughout the year.
- Lord Subramanya Swamy (Kartikeya): A puja for Subramanya Swamy is held on Tuesdays.
- Goddess Durgaparameshwari (a form of Durga): A puja for Durgaparameshwari is performed on Fridays.
- Lord Hanuman: The Hanuman Chalisa is recited in honor of Hanuman on Saturdays.
- Lord Ganesha: The elephant-headed god of wisdom and success is also honored at the temple, particularly during special events like the Ganesh Chaturthi festival.
- Lord Krishna: The birth of Krishna is celebrated at the temple during the annual Janmashtami festival.
Festivals and community involvement
In addition to its regular services, HTOS hosts many special events and larger festival celebrations throughout the year. The temple is an active part of the Siouxland community and has been involved in charitable activities, such as serving meals at The Banquet in Sioux Falls. Examples of past and upcoming events include:
- Janmashtami: Celebrating the birth of Lord Krishna.
- Ganesh Chaturthi: Celebrating the birth of Lord Ganesha, sometimes including eco-friendly idol-making.
- Diwali Gala: The annual “festival of lights” celebration.
- Varamahalakshmi Vratam: A Hindu festival to appease Goddess Lakshmi.
Weekly puja schedule
The temple holds the following services on a weekly basis:
- Monday: Shiva Abhishekam at 6:30 p.m., followed by Aarti at 7:30 p.m.
- Tuesday: Subramanya Swamy Puja at 6:30 p.m.
- Thursday: Venkateshwara Swamy Puja at 6:30 p.m.
- Friday: Durgaparameshwari Puja at 6:30 p.m.
- Saturday: Hanuman Chalisa at 11:30 a.m., followed by Aarti at 12:30 p.m.
Contact Info
Website: https://hindutemplesd.com/
Social Media: Facebook Page
Email: Not Listed
Phone: Not Listed
Temple Timings
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday
4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Saturday and Sunday
Morning 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Evening 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM