In anticipation of the inauguration of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, the Chicago Chapter of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad of America organized a significant event named the “Car Rally Mandir Invitation Marathon” on December 23, 2023. This rally traversed 11 temples across the Chicagoland area, commencing at the Hanuman Mandir in Glen View and concluding at the BAPS Swami Narayan Temple in Bartlett, IL. A substantial turnout of over 200 Hindus and 100 cars participated in this rally.
The temples involved in the rally included Hanuman Temple, Hari Sumiran Temple, Haridham Temple, Jalaram Mandir, Manav Sewa Mandir, Gayatri Gyan Mandir, Hari Om Mandir, Chicago Kali Bari Temple, Umiya Mata Temple, and BAPS Swami Narayan Temple. The event commenced with puja and aarti at the Hanuman Mandir, where each temple received a formal invitation to the consecration ceremony of the Ayodhya temple.
Amitabh Mittal, the general secretary of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad of America, personally extended these invitations and presented each temple with symbolic items like a statue of Ram Parivar, Kalash, Holy Water of Gangotri, Shri Hanuman Sunderkand books, and Sankalp Patra. The concept for this historic rally was initiated by Dipen Shah (Joy), while Harendra Mangrola, president of the Chicago Chapter, and his dedicated team played a crucial role in its execution. This involved confirming route options, establishing contact with temple priests and management, and coordinating logistical aspects of the rally.
Reflecting on the event’s significance, Mangrola emphasized, “This is the dream of generations. From 1528 to today, after 795 years of waiting, it is finally over. We invite all to attend and be part of this historical day.” The temple presidents and priests expressed gratitude towards VHPA for the Sankalp Patra and affirmed their full participation in the upcoming ceremonies, according to a release.
