HMM Vitthal Rukmini Mandir and Community Center Houston
State Texas
The HMM Vitthal Rukmini Mandir and Community Center in Houston, Texas is a facility owned by the Houston Maharashtra Mandal (HMM). Vitthal, also known as Vithoba or Panduranga, is a significant Hindu deity, especially in Maharashtra and Karnataka, India. Vitthal is widely considered a manifestation of Vishnu or his avatar, Krishna. He is the central deity of the monotheistic Varkari faith in Maharashtra and the Haridasa faith in Karnataka. Vitthal is typically depicted as a dark young boy, standing arms akimbo on a brick. He is sometimes accompanied by his consort, Rakhumai (Rukmini). The main center of worship for Vitthal is the Shree Vitthal Rukmini Temple in Pandharpur, Maharashtra.
Here’s some information about it:
- Location: 3515 Hwy 90 Alt, Rosenberg, TX 77471, US.
- Deities: The temple is dedicated to the deities of Maharashtra: Vitthal, Rukmini, Ganpati, and Mahalaxmi.
- Establishment: The Mandir was established in July 2024 with a large ceremony.
- Purpose: The facility serves as a place for members to arrange events, including music, drama, and festivals. There are also plans for various developments on the 11.5-acre property.
- Community Activities: HMM utilizes the property for outdoor sports activities and other events. They recently hosted a Badminton and Pickleball Tournament. HMM also offers Marathi language classes (Marathi Shala) for children aged 5-15, with branches in Cypress, Katy, Sugarland, and an upcoming one in The Woodlands.
- Open Hours: The temple has specific opening hours throughout the week.
- Membership: HMM has an annual membership model that allows members to attend community and flagship events at membership prices. Family membership is required for enrolling in Marathi Shala.
- Mission: The HMM, as a cultural organization, aims to educate the wider Houston community about Maharashtrian and Indian culture through various activities and events in areas like arts, literature, health, and religion.