A Belated Report: Travels in Boston

A few weeks ago Acharya Arumuganathaswami and Natyam Jayanatha had traveled to Boston, Massachusetts. The two had been there to attend the World History Association conference and to visit several local temples. At the conference, Acharya spoke on a panel which focused on the presentation of Hinduism and Indian history in modern academia, particularly in relation to what appears in student text books. A common theme at the conference was a trend in academia to give a narrative voice to people's and traditions that had previously been looked at through a Eurocentric or colonialist lens.

Following the conference our two traveling monks visited the Boston Sri Kalikambal Siva Temple. There are very few Hindu temples in the Boston area, but those that do exist are thriving. Just 6 months after opening its doors, this temple was bustling with educational and devotional activity. Acharya and the temple's head priest have known each other for over 20 years. Acharya gave a talk to the group and a short presentation about our work in Hindu education. It seemed as though nearly everyone there had some sort of prior association with Kauai Aadheenam, whether through visiting or reading our books or magazines. With so much prior knowledge and familiarity the group felt like instant family. It was a wonderful respite from the academic world just experienced. Our monks then made there way to the Lakshmi temple. There just happened to be a chariot parade for the Temple's Siva Nataraja and Shakti taking place. While this was a shorter visit, it was a powerful one, as the Temple's Lakshmi shrine was scintillating with light and energy. A good way to end the journey in Boston. The next day our travelers caught their flight back towards Kauai. Aum Namah Sivaya

A group photo at the Boston Sri Kalikambal Siva Temple

An earlier photo from the conference. The distinguished panel which gathered to discuss an authentic narrative for India and Hinduism

We arrive at the Boston Sri Kalikambal Siva Temple

After traditional greetings we are shown to the temple\

s many shrines. They have three giant Siva Lingams'

Acharya presents the head priest and his son each with a copy of the digitized Agama palm leaf collection.

Acharya then gives a presentation to the group

We are given gifts before leaving

Next, the Sri Lakshmi Temple

It was a hot sunny day, so water was continuously sprayed on everyone\

s feet as they walked with the chariot along the hot asphalt'

we are greeted with garlands

and we gift copies of The History of Hindu India to the temple

This temple has been here a long time and they are expanding rapidly

Aum Namah Sivaya

Goodbye Boston!

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