Organization background
The Hindu Temple in Flushing, NY is one of the oldest temples established in the US. It has been in operation for several decades. The presiding deity is Lord Ganesha, but the temple has several other "sannidhis" (Lord Venkateshwara and Mahalakshmi, Lord Shiva, and Lord Subhramanya) -- hence it caters to the various religious leanings of all Hindus. In addition to carrying out regular religious functions, the temple also conducts classes relating to Hindu religious scriptures, for adults and children, cultural programs relating to Indian dance, and music, and weekend classes for adults and children to educate them about Hindu culture and values. It also has a library and a Seniors Center. For further details, see here.

Project background
Religion and Culture are an important component of the sense of identity of an individual, and preserving that sense of group identity is an important facet of human life. Of the religions practised today, Hinduism is one of the most ancient. This religion prescribes a mode of living for individuals (that includes austerities, religious rituals etc.), as well as activities to be carried out by the broader community (rituals, studies, etc.). Unfortunately, the pressures of modern life make it increasingly difficult to follow these practices as an individual; however, the activities prescribed for the community are enthusiastically carried out in Hindu temples and ashrams, all over the world. Hence the temples and ashrams serve a very important role, as the preservers of Hindu traditions and culture, and ensure that the beliefs and values learnt over several millenia are not forgotten. GKF provides financial support to temples and ashrams, for activities related to preserving and nurturing the Hindu religion and culture.

Project description
The temple relies to a large extent on voluntary contributions from devotees to fund its operations. Over the years, the number of devotees thronging the temple has increased, and it is looking to both maintain and expand the current infrastructure, to accomodate the devotees, especially during important religious functions. As the temple serves a very important role as a preserver of Hindu traditions and culture, GKF provides financial support to the temple for infrastructre related activities.

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