There's A Unique Temple In Greater Cleveland... And It's Truly Breathtaking
By Nikki Rhoades|Published October 23, 2019
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Nikki Rhoades
Author
Nikki is a lifelong Ohioan with a love for literature. She holds a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Akron and has enjoyed publishing her written work since 2007. She has a love of travel and does so frequently, though she believes that home is where the heart is — she continues to work in and around Cleveland as a digital content specialist to this day, working on everything from commercial scripts and social media posts to grassroots marketing initiatives.
Here in Cleveland, cultures from all around the world have shaped and influenced our local atmosphere. Despite the great diversity in Ohio, a whopping 73 percent of the population identifies with a Christian-based faith. This has, of course, provided us with some stunning and historic churches… but it has also made structures like temples all the rarer. It’s surprising to many unsuspecting drivers that, when the conditions are right, aspects of Hindu temple architecture peek out at Ridge Road from behind tree branches, but this unique temple in Greater Cleveland has become a familiar sight to many. Let’s take a look:
Ganesha, Parvati, and Lakshmi are among the deities represented in this gorgeous Cleveland area temple. Their altars are absolutely gorgeous, dripping with color and extravagance.
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From the front, this temple’s size can be deceiving.
While the structure appears rather small, its expanse spans 11,000 square feet and provides an overlook of the surrounding forest that’s absolutely breathtaking, especially in the morning mist.
Activities are scheduled regularly at Shiva Vishnu Temple. In addition to pooja, or prayer ritual, and holiday events, the temple also offers classes, including one that teaches Sanskrit!
This temple is a gorgeous place to celebrate important holidays like Diwali… just be sure to wear appropriate attire when you’re on the temple grounds.
During any visit to the temple, you'll spot angarkhas and saris of the most incredible design. Traditional Hindu garb is much more colorful than the more familiar churchgoing clothes common in Greater Cleveland.
And, as is important in any place of worship, an atmosphere of absolute serenity pervades the gorgeous grounds.
This unique temple in Greater Cleveland is a gorgeous and colorful testament to Hindu heritage. Many of its attendees hail from Gujarat, though an incredible sampling of Indian culture is represented in its classes and prayers. Have you ever paid a visit to this lovely holy place? We’d love to hear about your experience!