Welcome to Hindu Temple Society of Mississippi
The Hindu Temple Society of Mississippi (HTSM), was first established in 1986 for the preservation of Sanatana Dharma, commonly known as Hinduism. Hinduism, a Henotheistic religion with origins in the Indian subcontinent, is the oldest major religion and is practiced by 14% of the world population today. It is a way of life defined by two categories of texts: The Shruti, which are believed to be of divine origin, and Smriti, which define the Hindu traditions. Although, some Hindus immigrated to North America at the turn of the previous century, most of the migration from India into the United States began during the second half of the last century, after India gained independence from the British Raj. Today, Hindus 1980’s. The last major influx into Mississippi was by the IT professionals in the 1990’s.comprise less than 0.9% of the US population. The Hindu Diaspora into Mississippi took root in the late 1960’s when numerous basic scientists moved into the state in order to teach at various universities. A wave of Hindu physicians moved into Mississippi starting early in the 1970’s, followed by businessmen who became more prominent in the mid to late
Upon this gradual convergence of different demographics, the Hindu population reached a critical mass leading to the construction of the first temple (presently located on the western end of the present temple). Due to the limited number of people involved, this early building was minimalist in shape and design. In later years, infused with manpower and monetary funds, the enthusiastic Mississippi Hindus formed a committee for the task of constructing the first authentic Hindu Temple in Mississippi along the strict codes of Vastu Shastra (rules which guide the dimension, proportion, and orientation of the physical structure). As a result of the dedication and diligence of the entire Hindu community of Mississippi, artisans from India, and local contractors, the temple structure was completed and the present Hindu temple became fully operational on Monday, July 12, 2010.
