Arya Dewaker Temple

Was the Arya Dewaker Temple always meant to be this architectural marvel? The Arya Dewaker Temple stands before us, a testament to perseverance and a blend of cultures. It’s the largest Hindu temple in Suriname, drawing visitors from around the globe. Originally named Arya Dewaker, the name was corrected to Arya Diwaker in 2022, meaning “Aryan Sun”. Its history is a story of resilience. Founded in 1929, the first temple, built in 1936, served the Arya Samaj community. This community follows the Hindu reform movement inspired by Swami Dayananda Sarasvati. This original structure, built in the traditional Aryan temple style, was devoid of images. It was demolished in 1975 to make way for a grander vision. However, economic hardships and changes in construction plans delayed the project for nearly two decades. The Arya Dewaker Temple we see today, completed in 2001, is a unique octagonal structure designed by Dutch architect Arthur E. de Groot. The two-story building houses meeting rooms and a library on the ground floor. The upper floor is dedicated to ceremonies, with the central fireplace encircled by benches, symbolizing equality. The temple’s design is rich in symbolism. Its octagonal shape evokes the circular forms of the sun, moon, and earth. The three towers represent the absolute God, human beings, and nature. The four-tiered roofs of the towers and dome symbolize the four Vedas. While devoid of deity images, as per Arya Samaj tradition, the walls and ceilings are adorned with swastikas, Om symbols, and Sanskrit and Hindi inscriptions. These include the Gayatri Mantra and ethical teachings from the Manusmriti. The architecture is a beautiful fusion of Surinamese, Moghul, and Moorish influences. The checkered windows and large eaves are distinctly Surinamese. The ornate pillars echo the grandeur of the Red Fort in Agra. A restoration between 2016 and 2018 brought in white synthetic ceiling plates, brightening the temple room. Sadly, the southern fence with its mantras was removed to create a parking lot for a nearby supermarket. The Arya Dewaker Temple stands as a symbol of cultural harmony and spiritual devotion. It’s a beacon of resilience, reflecting the dedication of the Arya Samaj community.