Congressman Jim McGovern Makes Historic Visit to Hindu Temple in Massachusetts

Ashland, Mass.— In what organizers described as a historic milestone for civic and religious engagement in Massachusetts, U.S. Rep. Jim McGovern visited the Sri Lakshmi Temple, marking the first time a sitting member of Congress has visited a Hindu temple in the state.

The visit brought together community leaders, faith representatives, and advocates for a program focused on civic participation, interfaith understanding, and the growing role of Indian Americans in public life.

McGovern, who serves on the House Rules Committee, addressed attendees and engaged in discussions on public policy and inclusion, emphasizing the importance of representing diverse communities across Massachusetts.

The event was organized by Lakshmi Thalanki, Massachusetts chapter president of Americans 4 Hindus, a national nonprofit focused on civic engagement and leadership development within the Hindu American community.

“This historic visit reflects the strength and vibrancy of the Hindu American community and the importance of building bridges across cultures and faiths,” Thalanki said during the program.

The evening also featured participation from Ramesh Vishwanath Kapur, president of the U.S.-India Security Council, who spoke about the importance of strengthening ties between the United States and India and highlighted the contributions of Indian Americans. Kapur praised McGovern for his longstanding support of the community.

A key moment during the event included McGovern reading a formal congressional citation honoring Gaurishankar Chandrashekhar, recognizing more than 25 years of mentorship and service in music education.

The program also highlighted philosophical themes from Hindu traditions. Thalanki spoke about principles such as “Ekam Sat Vipra Bahudha Vadanti,” meaning truth is one but expressed in many ways, and “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” the idea that the world is one family. She said these concepts reflect values of inclusivity, mutual respect, and coexistence.

During the visit, McGovern was presented with a vigraha of the goddess Lakshmi as part of Navaratri celebrations, a festival honoring feminine divinity and strength. Temple leaders also gifted him a coin depicting Lord Ganesha, symbolizing blessings and the removal of obstacles.

Several community leaders and members of the Hindu American community attended, including Pramit Maakoday, who spoke about the educational and economic contributions of Indian Americans, and Ram Gupta, who emphasized the inclusive philosophical foundations of Hinduism.

Temple officials, including Ganesh Krishnan, said the visit reflected the temple’s commitment to welcoming all communities and fostering dialogue. They noted the guiding principle “Athiti Devo Bhava,” meaning “the guest is God,” as central to the temple’s approach.

The event underscored the growing civic engagement of Hindu Americans in Massachusetts and highlighted efforts to build stronger connections between elected officials and diverse faith communities.

The Sri Lakshmi Temple serves as a cultural and spiritual center for the Hindu community in New England, hosting religious services, educational programs, and community events throughout the year. Americans 4 Hindus, the organizing group, continues to advocate for increased political participation and representation among Hindu Americans nationwide.