In a visit that celebrated both community spirit and cultural heritage, Victoria’s Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ingrid Stitt and Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos marked a significant moment in the journey of Sri Venkata Krishna Brundavana, a temple that has become a beacon of support and service for Indian community.
Located in Murrumbeena, the Hindu temple’s impact extends far beyond its walls, touching the lives of many in the local community and around the world.
The visit of the two ministers underscored the shared values of support and perseverance, which are central to both the Indian and Greek communities, and a cornerstone of Australian philosophy.
These values, passed down through generations, continue to shape the temple’s mission. Sri Venkata Krishna Brundavana, under the guidance of HH Sri Sugunendra Theertha Swamiji, has grown from a modest priest house in Hampton Park in 2015 to a global institution with 14 international branches.
The temple’s journey is a testament to unity and dedication, with its milestone achievements including the acquisition of its own premises in 2019 and an ongoing expansion of its services.
The core principles of Anna Dana (offering food) and Vidya Dhana (offering education) have been central to its work, with the temple providing free meals to all visitors as a demonstration of its commitment to service.
During times of crisis, including the bushfires and the COVID-19 pandemic, the temple’s role in supporting the community was pivotal. It delivered free meals to public housing residents, supported temporary residents and overseas students, and even developed an online portal to coordinate food deliveries. These efforts extended to areas such as Warrandyte, ensuring that aid reached those most in need. The temple’s work aligns with government programs and welfare initiatives, underscoring its unwavering commitment to community welfare.
The strength of the temple lies in its diverse and growing community, which continues to thrive despite challenges. The transformation of its facilities, including the conversion of a small kitchen into a commercial one and ongoing security upgrades, reflects the temple’s commitment to expanding its capacity to serve the community.
Sri Venkata Krishna Brundavana is planning to further enhance its community impact. These include a small party hall for social gatherings, a community centre that will serve as an emergency relief hub, and improved facilities to better serve its growing congregation. The temple’s vision emphasises collaboration over competition, with a focus on uplifting the entire community.
The support of the Victorian Government has been instrumental in the temple’s progress, allowing it to continue expanding its services and reach.
In a statement on Facebook, Steve Dimopoulos remarked, “This is such an important part of our community. We’re backing them to make it even better. Just in the last few years, we’ve provided significant funding for upgrades at Sri Venkata Krishna Brundavana Melbourne in Murrumbeena – because it matters to so many.”
“This is not just a place of worship – it’s a meeting place and a place for people to connect. And more, it’s a place where so much work is done for local people – food, advice, support – quietly and without the need for recognition.”
Ingrid Stitt and Steve Dimopoulos’ visit was a celebration of the temple’s remarkable journey, its achievements, and its ongoing commitment to serving the local community and preserving Indian cultural values for future generations.
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