This year marks the 50th anniversary of the India Temple Association (ITA)—a golden milestone for a community institution that has nurtured spirituality, culture, and fellowship for generations.
On February 24, 1976, the founding trustees signed the Articles of Incorporation, formally establishing ITA. The original trustees and their spouses were:
- Dr. K. S. Satija and Mrs. Chander Satija
- Dr. Desh Raj Goel and Mrs. Manju Goel
- Mr. R. K. Chopra (Agent) and Mrs. Sunita Chopra
- Mr. Venkata Raman and Mrs. Savita Raman
- Mr. N. R. Mohanram and Mrs. Mohanram
What began in a private home in Glen Oaks, New Jersey, has grown into a vibrant and enduring institution that has touched thousands of lives over five decades through worship, education, cultural programs, and community service.
The founding document itself beautifully expressed the purpose of this effort:
“The ever growing concern of the families from India in preserving their spiritual heritage, beliefs and traditions and passing them on to their kith & kin, has projected an acute need in establishing an institution in the form of a temple for prayer; the ultimate aims of the institution thus formed is not only to provide, within its limited capacity, the help, relief and comfort to the needy in urgent need but also aid in the social, intellectual and moral elevation of mankind.”
Those words continue to define ITA’s mission today.
For me, this anniversary is especially meaningful. Seeing my father’s signature on the founding document is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices and aspirations of an immigrant generation that built institutions from the ground up so their children would remain connected to their roots.
Together with their families—including my mother and many dedicated volunteers—the founders shared a vision of creating not just a temple, but a spiritual and cultural home for Indian families in the region. Their faith, perseverance, and spirit of service created a legacy that continues to guide and inspire.
As we celebrate 50 years of the India Temple Association, we honor the founders, the volunteers, and the generations that followed. May ITA flourish for the next 50 years and beyond.
You can learn more about the India Temple Association on their website here.
My father, Dr. Desh Raj Goel, is listed among the five founding trustees.
