Southern Hemisphere's Largest Hindu Temple Unveiled in Johannesburg
| Summary/Static | Details |
|---|---|
| Why in the news? | Southern Hemisphere's Largest Hindu Temple Unveiled |
| Location | North Riding, Johannesburg, South Africa |
| Significance | Largest Hindu temple in the Southern Hemisphere |
| Size | Built on 14.5 acres |
| Facilities | - 3,000-seater auditorium - 2,000-seater banqueting hall - Classrooms - Clinic - Cultural center - Exhibition hall |
| Spiritual Leader | Mahant Swami Maharaj (BAPS) |
| Government Representative | Deputy President Paul Mashatile |
| Cultural Role | - Centre for education - Interfaith dialogue - Social service |
| Future Plans | Phase 2: Construction of an ornate Hindu temple with ancient architecture |
| Other Major Temples in South Africa | - Shree Sanatan Hindu Mandir (Durban) - Durban Hindu Temple - Sri Vishwaroopa Sanatan Hindu Union Temple - Shree Cidambaram Maruthi Temple (Johannesburg) |
| Inauguration Ceremony | - Held on February 2, 2025 - Nagar yatra procession on February 1, 2025 - Thousands attended consecration rituals |
| Hindu Population in South Africa | Less than 2% of the total population |
| Social Contributions | - Poverty alleviation - Education - Humanitarian services - Collaboration with government on social issues |