INDIANAPOLIS: Hindu Temple of Central Indiana will celebrate Lohri on January 13 from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. Makar Sankranti, Magha Sankranti, Bihu, Pongal or Lohri is one of very few Indian that is observed based upon Solar cycle, while most our other festivals are based upon lunar cycles.
The festival is celebrated all over India in variety of ways including bonfire, flying kites, decorating and worshiping cows and bulls, praying to five elements, cooking sesame sweets and great food in general and socializing. It is also considered a very auspicious day for donations and spiritual progress.
This year we will be celebrating Bhogi/Lohri with a bonfire in the Temple Yagna-Shala on January 13 from 6.30 p.m to 8 p.m, according to information received from HTCI.
Andal Kalyanam - Jan 13, 3:00 - 6:00 p.m
Andal or Goda Kalyanam is the celestial wedding of Sri Andal, also known as Goda Devi, with Lord Vishnu. Goda lived with her father Vishnuchitta and grew up to be an ardent devotee of Shri Vishnu. She used to prepare garlands for the lord everyday which Vishnuchitta would put to Lord at the temple.
Goda used to try them on first to ensure that the garlands looked pretty. When Vishnuchitta found that garlands were first worn by Goda, he was worried about the sacrilege committed. But that night Lord Vishnu appeared in his dream to tell him that he preferred garlands worn by Goda due to her pure devotion. Goda continued her devotion to Lord Vishnu and decided to marry only the lord himself, It is believed that Lord Ranganatha married Andal who later merged with Lord.
At HTCI, the kalyanam will be performed at 3:00-6:00 PM on January 13. Join us to experience the love and devotion of Andal at our temple. Devotees are welcome to bring Kalyana Seer Bakshanam (Sweets & Snacks) for the Kalyanam. You can also sponsor flowers and garlands for the Kalyanam.
Ayyappa Makara Vilakku Puja - Jan 14, 5:00 p.m
The HTCI priests will be performing Ayyappa Makara Vilakku Puja on Sankranti day. It is believed that on this day, Lord Ayyappa stops his tapas to bless the devotees. Join us for the procession of Lord and Ayyappa Abhishekam on the evening of January 14th
Ram Janmabhoomi Pran Pratishtha
A momentous occasion fills our hearts with boundless joy - the long-awaited Pran Pratishtha of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya has finally come to pass! This historic event marks the culmination of a spiritual journey for millions of Hindus worldwide, and we at The Hindu Temple of Central Indiana (HTCI) eagerly invite you to join us in celebrating this blessed occasion.
Sankranti Cultural Program Jan 28, 12:30 - 2:30 p.m
The first Sankranti Cultural program where local artists will be showcasing their talent on Jan 28. This is the first cultural program for 2024. Please join us and encourage our participants from all around Indianapolis. For details contact Anita Anil Gupta, our cultural committee chair.