Third anniversary gathering at Hindu temple in Monksland

The Ireland Murugan Temple in Monksland, Athlone, marked its third anniversary with a grand celebration recently.

The place of worship in Nestor’s Business Complex, Monksland, is the first Murugan Temple in Ireland and the first Hindu temple outside the Dublin region.

For the anniversary event, it welcomed more than 450 community leaders and devotees from across Ireland, including a strong representation from Northern Ireland.

The event was live-streamed, allowing more people to join in the festivities from afar.

In the faith segment, temple secretary Revi Velayudan spoke about how the temple has become a sanctuary that strengthens faith, not only for devotees but for thousands of visitors who leave feeling spiritually enriched and uplifted.

Devotees were treated to traditional food during the cultural event, and everyone received Maha Prasadam (Holy Ash), adding to the sacred atmosphere of the day.

The temple's founder and head priest, Kandeepan Singham highlighted how the temple is the heart of the community, a place that nurtures the soul and strengthens the bonds of society.

He extended appreciation to the volunteers for their unwavering dedication and to the donors for their selfless generosity.

Kandeepan concluded with a heartfelt reflection: "Just as a baby takes its first steps at the age of one, the temple has only begun to walk. When we meet next year, it will be four and it will not only walk, but it will also begin to talk, sharing its message of peace, harmony, and happiness with the world".

The inspiring programme left everyone with a deep sense of pride, happiness, and a renewed purpose. The Ireland Murugan Temple extended heartfelt thanks to all who supported the temple in making this event a success.

For more information on the temple, see the website www.murugan.ie. Worship services are held every Saturday evening from 5pm to 7pm.