Visiting Sri Dasavathara Venkateswara Swamy Temple SC

Visiting Sri Dasavathara Venkateswara Swamy Temple SC

The Sri Dasavathara Venkateswara Swamy Temple and Cultural Center in Columbia, South Carolina, is a special place for devotees and visitors. It is located at 9554 Two Notch Road. This Hindu temple is the first of its kind in North America and the second such temple in the world. It is a good place for prayer, learning, and cultural activities.

Table of Contents

• 1. Main Deities and Divine Worship
• 2. Warm Hospitality and Welcoming Atmosphere
• 3. Educational Tours and Community Outreach
• 4. Special Pujas and Rituals
• 5. Temple Timings
• Useful Visitor Tips

1. Main Deities and Divine Worship

The main deity is Sri Dasavathara Venkateswara Swamy (a form of Lord Vishnu, also called Lord Balaji). He is shown with the ten avatars of Vishnu (Matsya, Kurma, Varaha, Narasimha, Vamana, Parashurama, Rama, Krishna, Buddha, and Kalki). The main idol stands with Sridevi and Bhudevi on either side.

Other deities at the temple include:

• Sri Shiva
• Sri Durga Mata
• Sri Rama Parivar
• Sri Ganapathi, Ayyappa, and Murugan
• Sri Sadguru Sai Baba
• Sri Bhakta Anjaneya Swamy (Hanuman)
• Navagrahas

Regular worship and special pujas are done for these deities. The temple follows traditional Agama Shastra rules.

2. Warm Hospitality and Welcoming Atmosphere

Visitors often talk about the peaceful and friendly feeling at the temple:

• Equal and Kind Treatment: Priests and volunteers treat every visitor with respect and care.
• Positive Energy: The temple is a quiet place for prayer, meditation, or simply to feel calm.
• Community Support: Local devotees started the temple and continue to help it grow as a close community.

3. Educational Tours and Community Outreach

The temple is also a place to learn about Hindu traditions:

• Interfaith and School Visits: School groups and religion classes often visit to learn about Hindu culture and practices.
• Helpful Guidance: Priests and hosts explain the rituals in a simple way, so people of all backgrounds feel welcome.

4. Special Pujas and Rituals

The temple offers daily and monthly pujas along with special services:

• Special Blessings: Rituals like Jalabhishekam, Laxmi Puja, and Sai Baba Puja happen regularly.
• Shravan Month Special: Mondays in the month of Shravan are popular for the Rudraabhishek ceremony for Lord Shiva.

Priest services are also available for devotees.

5. Temple Timings

Current reported timings are:

• Monday to Sunday: Morning 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM
• Evening: 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM

Timings can change on festival days or special events. It is best to call the temple or check the website before you visit.

Useful Visitor Tips

• Confirm Temple Timings: Hours may change, so call ahead or check the official website.
• Current Location: 9554 Two Notch Road, Columbia, SC 29223.
• Future Site: A larger permanent temple is planned on about 19.75 acres at 3823 Hard Scrabble Road, Columbia, SC 29223.
• Contact: Phone (803) 250-1980. Website: sdvstccsc.org
• Support the Temple: The temple is growing and welcomes donations and community support.