Established in May 2002 the Chinmaya Mission of Twin Cities MN stands as a beacon of Hindu spirituality in Minnesota. Before its official founding however dedicated individuals and families had been actively promoting its values for four to five years. Imagine Ashlesha Madhok transforming her basement into a classroom in 1998. There she ignited the flame of faith teaching eight or nine children about Hinduism. She had discovered the Chinmaya Mission while living in Washington D.C. and recognizing a similar need in the Twin Cities she gathered families seeking a place to nurture their children’s cultural and spiritual heritage.
The Mission quickly outgrew Madhok’s basement. Its growth necessitated a move to a rented space in a Plymouth primary school. Further growth led to temporary homes at the Jewish Community Center in Minneapolis and then the Eisenhower Community Center in Hopkins. Finally a permanent home was established. The Chinmaya Ganapati Mission in Chaska a southwestern suburb twenty-seven miles from Minneapolis became its permanent abode. This move reflects a larger trend. A portion of the Twin Cities South Asian Hindu community has resettled in the suburbs.
Today the Chinmaya Mission of Twin Cities thrives. Over 150 families actively participate in its diverse programs. Children from pre-K to twelfth grade attend Balavihar classes emphasizing values rooted in Hindu culture. They also participate in Bhajans Hindustani Classical Language and Vedic Chanting classes. Adults aren’t left out. They engage in study groups led by visiting Swamijis. They also take part in Bhajans Hindustani Classical and Vedic Chanting. The Mission offers a rich tapestry of activities. These include collective prayers Bhagwad Gita chanting Kathas pujas and vibrant festival celebrations. A summer family retreat further strengthens the community bond.
The resident acharya Swami Shantananda guides the Mission. Before his life as a Sanyasi he was Gurudev’s secretary and ran a business in Taiwan. He also established Chinmaya centers in Hong Kong and Taiwan. His talks offer valuable insights applicable to daily life. The Mission’s deity is Lord Ganapathi. Its Chaska location hosts services Sundays from 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM. Another location at East Ridge High School in Woodbury holds services Sundays from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
The Chinmaya Mission of Twin Cities MN is more than a place of worship. It is a vibrant center for learning community and spiritual growth. Its story is one of dedication growth and the enduring power of faith. It is a testament to the strength of the Hindu community in the Twin Cities and beyond. It is a place where ancient wisdom blossoms in a modern setting. The mission continues to serve its community fulfilling its mission statement of providing spiritual growth and happiness. It empowers individuals to become positive contributors to society. It connects individuals to their heritage through education. It fosters a sense of belonging and spiritual fulfillment. This is the essence of the Chinmaya Mission of Twin Cities MN.