The Sri Vidya Temple was consecrated as a “Sakti Pradhana Sivalayam.” The divine energies of both Siva and Sakti are present, but the Sakti principle is predominant in the form of Divine Mother Rajarajeswari.

We are a “Learning Temple”

Our Temple was founded on Aiya’s unique vision that all sincere devotees have the right to chant the Vedas, to chant Lalita Sahasranama, and to learn and perform the worship of the Divine Mother. In keeping with this vision, we encourage all visitors and volunteers to participate in the Temple rituals to whatever extent they are capable. It is our mission to help everyone learn about the worship of Sri Rajarajeswari as well as the beautiful and ancient Saiva culture.

As a Learning Temple, we believe that devotees receive maximum blessings when they are educated and engaged in their cultural and spiritual traditions. During programs, our pujaris often pause to explain what is happening or comment on how the puja or homam is benefiting us. In this way, we come to understand the greatness of Sanatana Dharma firsthand, and we can then pass on these noble traditions to our children.

Inclusion and Diversity

All visitors are welcome to come close to all the deities, touch their lotus feet, and perform abhishekam during the weekly Saturday Homam and Abhishekam program. As we have all come from the same Divine Mother, and we all have an equal right to worship Her. This opportunity is unique to this Temple.

Pujaris at the Temple include men, women, young and old. People of every ethnic and national background are encouraged to learn, train and perform pujas after having been initiated into Sri Vidya.

Empowering the Future Generations

This liberal view extends to the youngest of our volunteers, who take part in almost every aspect of Temple functions. Aiya has made it his life’s goal to encourage and empower all the children to get involved and “learn by doing” in our Temple. Not only do our younger volunteers participate in every activity, we also conduct a unique Raja Matangi Homam every year, in which the entire program is run and managed solely by children.