The ISKCON Temple in Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, officially known as the Sri Sri Radha Madanmohanji Temple, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 15, 2025. This temple stands as Asia's second-largest ISKCON temple, encompassing 9 acres near Central Park and opposite the Golf Course in Kharghar.
Key Features:
Architecture: The temple showcases a magnificent structure built with white and brown marble, reflecting traditional Indian architectural styles.
Deities Worshipped: The temple houses the deities of Sri Sri Radha Madanmohanji, Sri Sri Gaur Nitai, Sri Sri Vithal Rukminiji, and Sri Sri Sita Ram Laxman Hanumanji.
Facilities: The premises include the Bhaktivedanta Ayurvedic Healing Centre, Bhaktivedanta International Guesthouse with over 100 rooms, and the Bhaktivedanta College of Vedic Education.
Visiting Hours:
The temple operates daily with the following schedule:
Morning: 4:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Afternoon Break: 12:30 PM – 4:30 PM (Closed)
Evening: 4:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Please note that the temple remains closed from 12:30 PM to 4:30 PM and from 8:30 PM to 4:30 AM.
Location:
ISKCON Kharghar is situated at Sector 23, Hare Krishna Land, Central Park, Opposite Golf Course, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra – 410210, India.
This temple offers a serene environment for spiritual seekers and visitors, providing various facilities and programs to enhance the devotional experience.
Here’s some additional information about the ISKCON Kharghar temple:
History and Construction
The ISKCON Kharghar temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna, was established with the purpose of providing a place of worship and spiritual learning for the growing community in Navi Mumbai.
The construction began with the vision of spreading the teachings of Srila Prabhupada, the founder of ISKCON, and offering devotees a peaceful environment to chant the Hare Krishna mantra and partake in devotional activities.
Inauguration Ceremony
The temple's grand inauguration took place on January 15, 2025, and was graced by the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, highlighting the importance of this temple as a cultural and spiritual center for the region.
Spiritual Activities and Programs
The temple offers a range of programs for devotees and visitors, including Bhagavad Gita classes, Harinam Sankirtan (chanting of the holy names), yoga and meditation sessions, and festivals.
It also organizes weekend programs and spiritual retreats aimed at deepening one's knowledge of the Bhagavad Gita, the teachings of Lord Krishna, and Vedic philosophy.
Cultural and Community Outreach
The ISKCON Kharghar temple places significant emphasis on community outreach programs and social service activities. These include efforts such as food distribution (Prasadam), educational initiatives, and health programs that benefit local communities and disadvantaged groups.
Eco-Friendly Initiatives
The temple also focuses on environmental sustainability, with initiatives such as organic farming, water conservation, and waste management. The lush, green campus of the temple reflects these efforts.
Volunteer Opportunities
The temple offers numerous volunteer opportunities for individuals interested in engaging in community service and devotional practices. Volunteers can assist in various activities, including temple maintenance, distribution of Prasadam, and organizing events.
Visitor Experience
Visitors can take part in the daily aartis (religious rituals), Kirtan sessions, and Prasadam distribution, which offer a unique spiritual experience.
The serene ambiance and scenic location provide an ideal setting for quiet contemplation and devotion, along with the spiritual benefits of association with like-minded individuals.
Temple Shop
The temple features a gift and bookshop selling spiritual books, ISKCON merchandise, devotional items like prayer beads, incense, and other related items.
Nearby Attractions
The temple is situated near several popular spots in Navi Mumbai, such as Central Park, Kharghar Golf Course, and the Kharghar Hills.
Accommodation and Facilities
As mentioned earlier, the temple houses the Bhaktivedanta International Guesthouse, where devotees can stay during their visits. The guesthouse offers comfortable rooms and a peaceful environment for rest and spiritual rejuvenation.
This ISKCON temple is one of the significant spiritual hubs in Navi Mumbai, catering to people from all walks of life and offering a space for deepening one’s faith, enhancing community spirit, and engaging in devotional activities.
Here’s more detailed information about the ISKCON Kharghar temple:
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Key Highlights of the Temple
1. Size and Structure:
The ISKCON Kharghar temple is Asia's second-largest ISKCON temple, spread over 9 acres of land.
The temple's structure is designed using a mix of traditional Indian architecture with modern elements, featuring intricate carvings, beautiful domes, and a grand façade made of white and brown marble.
2. Main Temple Hall:
The spacious main hall features exquisitely decorated deities, illuminated by natural light during the day and ornate chandeliers at night.
The hall accommodates a large number of devotees, making it a hub for daily prayers, festivals, and spiritual gatherings.
3. Multi-Purpose Facilities:
Auditorium: Used for cultural events, discourses, and festivals.
Educational Wing: Vedic learning programs are conducted here, including courses in Sanskrit, Vedic philosophy, and leadership training.
4. Cafeteria:
A fully vegetarian cafeteria, Govinda’s Restaurant, serves a wide variety of sattvic food prepared without onions and garlic. Visitors can relish prasadam (sanctified food) here.
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Festivals Celebrated
1. Janmashtami (Krishna’s Birthday):
The grandest celebration, attracting thousands of devotees who participate in a day filled with chanting, dancing, and feasting.
2. Ratha Yatra:
The annual chariot festival where deities are paraded around the area with vibrant cultural performances and music.
3. Gaura Purnima:
Celebrating the appearance of Lord Chaitanya, an incarnation of Lord Krishna.
4. Diwali and Govardhan Puja:
Marked with joyous offerings, special aartis, and prasadam feasts.
5. Holi:
Celebrated with natural colors, music, and dance, focusing on the spiritual meaning of unity.
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Daily Schedule
Mangala Aarti: 4:30 AM (morning worship).
Tulasi Puja: 5:00 AM (worship of the sacred Tulasi plant).
Bhagavatam Discourse: 7:30 AM (spiritual discourses on Srimad Bhagavatam).
Raj Bhoga Aarti: 12:30 PM (main midday worship with elaborate offerings).
Sandhya Aarti: 7:00 PM (evening worship).
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Spiritual Guidance
Resident Swamis and Gurus:
Senior monks and spiritual leaders provide guidance to visitors and conduct lectures on Bhagavad Gita, Srimad Bhagavatam, and other scriptures.
ISKCON Youth Forum:
Special programs for youth, including life-skills workshops, career guidance, and spirituality-based counseling.
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Visitor Tips
1. Dress Code: Modest attire is recommended, as it is a place of worship.
2. Photography: Allowed in most areas but restricted during certain ceremonies.
3. Footwear: Visitors must remove footwear before entering the temple premises.
4. Accessibility: The temple is wheelchair accessible, with facilities for senior citizens.
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How to Reach
1. By Road:
The temple is well-connected by roads within Navi Mumbai and neighboring areas. Ample parking is available.
2. By Train:
Nearest railway station: Kharghar Railway Station (on the Harbour Line), about 3 km from the temple.
3. By Air:
The nearest airport is Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, approximately 40 km away.
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If you'd like details about a specific aspect (such as visiting hours, transportation, or specific rituals), let me know!
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