Page 56 - Masala E-magazine Vol 9 Issue 6 Junel - July 2018

COMMUNITY
More than just a
Spiritual Sanctuary
Bharat Vidyalaya School
“ blessings for both newlyweds and the dearly departed. But
As an institution that is
at the heart of a thriving
society, it is admirable to see
generation after generation
supporting this temple and the
people who graciously run it.
Spiritual bliss at Dev Mandir
56 Masala Magazine
JUNE - JULY 2018
Masala celebrates the growth of the
Hindu Samaj and Shri Dev Mandir
by revealing the establishment’s new
modern and elegant function hall
that has been built for the benefi t of
the community.
B YA SHIMASETHI
ith a primary mission to cater to the spiritual
needs of local communities and to commemorate
W important milestones, rituals and festivals, the
Dev Mandir, also recognised as Wat Thepmonthien, is a place
where many Thai Indians can recall fond memories. In the
decades since its construction under the patronage of the
Hindu Samaj, the community centre and temple has come alive
with songs of cultural celebrations, knowledge of prayer and
what is it about this institution that has stood the test of time?
In the 1920s, the Hindu Samaj, previously known as the Hindu
Sabha, was born from the ideas of a group of Punjabi Hindu
immigrants, who wanted to form a society where likeminded
Indians from all walks of life could meet. Its initiation,
spearheaded by Pandit Ragunath Sharma in 1925, was a huge
“ success, and with gathered funds, the group was able to rent
a small shophouse to hold meetings, prayers and sermons.
These get-togethers created a strong sense of belonging
within the community, which in turn benefi tted members both
socially and professionally.
As meetings became more popular, the Hindu Sabha began
funding development projects for the local community.
One notable example is the Bharat Vidyalaya School, an
establishment built for children from families of very limited
fi nancial means. The association’s funding aided the growth of
the existing school, introducing better facilities and teaching
staff. Many view the educational establishment as a shining
example that set in motion the association’s continued work in
supporting local youths.