On Sunday, August 24th 2008, Shri Surya Narayn Mandir made history as they celebrated the life of their Founder, Dharmacharya Pandit Hardowar Panday. The memorial ceremony began in the afternoon with many devotees, well wishers and friends from other mandirs. Many notable pandits and dignitaries from the Hindu community also graced this occasion.
Pt. Sewram Hardowar, the youngest son of our Founder, was the Master of Ceremonies for the day’s activites. The opening ceremony was performed by the children of the Surya Veer Sang with prayers and chants from the Bhagwat Gita. The audience was welcomed by the president of Shri Surya Narayan Mandir, Bhai Amar Persaud, who remarked about his Guruji, Pt Hardowar Panday as a builder of mandirs. Spiritual Leader, Pt. Ram Hardowar, spoke about his father dreams and dedication to Sanatan Dharma. Pt. Dr. Vishnu, of the Florida mandir, also spoke about his father as a leader in the Guyanese Hindu communities. Many others speakers related their experience with and love for Dharmacharya Pandit Hardowar Panday. Most notably, speakers were happy that three of the four sons of the late Dharmacharyaji are pandits and leaders of our community today.
In addition, the mandir awarded 3 communtiy leaders for their selfless service and dedication to the Hindu community. Harry Goberdhan, attourney, Dr. Dhanan Etwaru, surgeon, and Dr. Parmeshwar Mahabir were awarded with Community Service Awards by Pt. Ram and Bhai Amar Persaud.
Following a video presentation of the life of Dharmacharyaji, everyone gathered outside for the major event of the day. The mandir building was dedicated to Dharmacharyaji by a plaque installation ceremony. The plaque was revealed to all by the dharampatni of Pt. Hardowarji, Mataji Kowsilla Hardowar.