Hindu Temple in Berlin-Neukölln Set for October Completion After Long Journey

After a lengthy construction period spanning 15 years, the Hindu Temple in Berlin-Neukölln is anticipated to open its doors by the end of October. Hindus in the area have long envisioned a magnificent temple at Hasenheide, and that dream may soon become a reality.

The project has faced numerous delays, but Vilwanathan Krishnamurthy from the temple's overseeing organization expressed hope that the temple would be completed in time for the upcoming festival of lights. However, the completion remains contingent on the arrival of granite flooring, which has been awaited for eight months. Krishnamurthy noted the frustration surrounding this delay.

Currently, the interior of the temple is nearing completion, but the installation of the marble flooring is critical for the placement of approximately 70 divine figures and other artifacts.

From the outside, the temple's architectural beauty is already visible. The blue facade is adorned with intricate ornaments and deity figures, while the gold-tinted roof structure of the 17-meter tall tower showcases exquisite craftsmanship typical of Indian artisans.

Despite its impressive exterior, additional work is still required, including ongoing painting tasks. Krishnamurthy has been involved in the project since its inception in 2005, when initial delays were caused by permit issues. Construction officially began in 2010, and various completion dates have been projected since then, all of which have been postponed for various reasons.

The temple is being funded through donations and volunteer efforts from the community. Many devotees have contributed financially to support the endeavor, with the total project cost expected to reach a maximum of one million euros. The temple, officially named the Sri Ganesha Hindu Temple, is dedicated to the deity Ganesha, who is often recognized by his elephant head.

On September 6, a significant celebration is planned at the temple. This event, marking Ganesha Day--a time when Hindus commemorate the birth of the deity--will include an open house and a procession. Krishnamurthy anticipates that between 3,000 and 4,000 visitors, including the Indian ambassador and local officials, will attend. All interested in learning about Hindu culture and faith are encouraged to join.

This temple, once completed, will be the second Hindu temple in Berlin, following the establishment of the Sri Mayurapathy Murugan Temple in Britz in 2013, which primarily serves the Sri Lankan Hindu community. The new temple in Neukölln is expected to cater to the growing Indian diaspora, which Krishnamurthy estimates has increased significantly, with current estimates suggesting around 30,000 Hindus reside in Berlin, a notable rise attributed to the influx of Indian students.