Namaste, everyone,

We are writing on behalf of the Indo-Caribbean Sri Shakti Mariamma Hindu Temple in Queens, New York, which urgently needs your help to fund mandatory repairs and stay open.

From hosting the very first LGBTQ+ wedding in a Shakti temple, to being the only Hindu temple in the area to openly celebrate Pride, the Sri Mariamma Temple stands as a safe haven—a sacred space of healing and joy for many.

The temple’s leadership is also proudly female-led, a rare and powerful stance in a tradition where women are often relegated to the background. As Pandita Chandni, the presiding priest, writes:

“As a Devi temple, we refuse to be hypocrites: how can we worship the Goddess while mistreating, silencing, and limiting the women around us?”

Beyond its inclusive leadership and rituals, the temple has gone above and beyond in community service—from food and grocery distributions to toy drives, senior home visits, and support for shelters. A full list of their contributions is included below.

But now, this space—this sanctuary—is at risk. Without urgent renovations, including electrical upgrades, a wheelchair-accessible ramp, fire safety enhancements, and a functioning bathroom, the temple will be forced to close its doors. A list of anticipated repairs is included below.

We cannot allow that to happen.

Please share this appeal widely and donate generously if you are able. Let us ensure that Sri Shakti Mariamma Temple remains a beacon of inclusion, faith, and community care.

Read more about the temple's story on AP News!

Ram Siya Ram.

With gratitude,

On behalf of the temple’s supporters and allies,

Signed,

Sunita Viswanath

Executive Director, Hindus for Human Rights

Cofounder. Sadhana: Coalition of Progressive Hindus

Aminta Kilawan-Narine

Founder & Director, South Queens Women’s March

Cofounder, Sadhana: Coalition of Progressive Hindus

Rohan Narine

Cofounder, Sadhana: Coalition of Progressive Hindus

Chandni Persaud

Presiding Pandita, Sri Shakti Mariamma Hindu Temple

Ishwar Bridgelal

Educational Psychologist

Shanita Liu

Life Coach, Author (Medicine Maa)

Mohamed Q. Amin

Executive Director, Caribbean Equality Project

Tahil Sharma

Hindu Community Leader

Simone Jhingoor

Co- Executive Director, Jahajee Sisters

Pandita Pratima Doobay

Shridevi Arts

Community Service Resume and Anticipated Repairs

Photo Album