1) Temple Model

One of the pilgrims explains the temple model to visitors Photo credit: Hinduism Today

2) Carving Demonstration

The five master stone carvers from India demonstrate their skill as they touch up the just completed second course of the temple. Photo credit: Hinduism Today

3) Stone Moving

The stone carvers demonstrate moving the stone, which is done with iron bars and rollers. The men coordinate their efforts by a traditional carver's song. Photo credit: Hinduism Today

4) Mayor Garlands Carvers

The six master stone carvers have just been garlanded by Mayor Maryanne Kusaka of Kauai (at left). The temple's founder, Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami is beside her at right. Sadhaka Thondunatha, the temple's chief fund raiser and master of ceremonies for the open house addresses the 400 guests. Photo credit: Hinduism Today

5) Neesha's Dance Performance

Kauai resident Neesha Alahan, a graduate of the famed Kalakshetra dance school in Chennai (formerly Madras), India, performs bharata natyam dance for the guests. Photo credit: Hinduism Today

6) Shatrini's Dance Program

Shatrani, from Toronto, Canada, age 13, had flown in at the last minute with her father so she could dance for the day's event, which happened to be her birthday. Photo credit: Hinduism Today

7) Mayor Chips Stone

Mayor Maryanne Kusaka chips on a stone set up to allow interested guests a "hands on" experience of stone carving with a small iron chisel and mallet. Photo credit: Hinduism Today

8) Boy Chips Stone

A young Kauaian takes a turn at chipping a granite stone from India. Photo credit: Hinduism Today

9) A Taste of India Feast

The monastery prepared a feast of 22 different Indian dishes for the guests. In front of the line here is the former mayor of Kauai, Joanne Yukimura. Photo credit: Hinduism Today