A fundraising event was held on the evening of Friday, 15 June at the Café Saffron in South Morang to help with raising funds for the “Craigieburn Mata Mandir”, or the “Kala Mata Mandir” as many devotees call it.
Shadow Minister Mr Craig Ondarchie MLC of Liberal party was the guest of honour for the evening. He was given a traditional welcome by fashion designer and advisor for the temple executive Mrs Neelam Rai, and other members of the temple committee.
Around 350 people joined in, mostly from the Northern Suburb’s Hindu community to raise funds for the development of the temple at the new location of 7 Nova Court, Craigieburn.
This Victorian Hindu temple enjoys the backing of the legendary Kali Mata Mandir, in Patiala, in the North Indian state of Punjab.
During his speech Mr Craig Ondarchie thanked Victoria’s Hindu and Indian community for their contribution to the state of Victoria. He also conveyed the good wishes that were sent by State Opposition Leader Hon. Matthew Guy, who was unable to be there due to prior commitments.
Mrs Rai requested devotees to be generous with their contributions. The vote of thanks was given by Mrs Bhawna Gupta on behalf of the temple executive.
Prominent members of the Victorian Indian community such as Mr Abhishek Seth (Augment Group), Mr Rishi Dutta (Prudent Loans), and various others joined in the fundraiser, ensuring it was a success.
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