Fundraising Letter Fall 1999

A Mandir for Hanuman

Around Bhandara in September, our rejoicing was heightened when the Board reaffirmed intentions to build a temple for Hanuman. What had been a dream for many years since Maharajji spoke of a Hanuman Temple in America, is now underway. The Board set in place a planning committee charged with making a proposal, not only for the mandir, but also for the entire Ashram's infrastructure. Thank you to those who participated in the visioning process last year and to all those who in prior years have contributed to our collective recognition of the Ashram's unfolding direction.

Our planning process is one of discovery: can we most appropriately house Hanuman and Neem Karoli Baba? Once our plans are drawn up, the Town of Taos must approve them. Our victory in court confirming church use of the entire property is groundwork for a building permit which is required before construction can begin.

Much work remains before it will be known what the mandir will look like and what other structures are to be built. Possible new spaces or new uses of existing buildings include a larger kirtan area, rooms for guests and residents, kid's playroom, bath house, store, wetlands water treatment system, and dining room. In all of this the intention is to maximize solar potential.

The costs for each stage of construction have yet to be deterrnined. Meanwhile support for monthly operating expenses is essential. Your ongoing donations not only provides for the ;

Ashram's regular activities, but are also the foundation upon which the Ashram's future will be built.

Your participation is invited!

Jai, jai, jai Hanuman Gosai, kripa karahu Gurudeva ki nai!

Hail, hail, hail Lord Hanuman, bestow your grace as the Guru!