Hindu Temple Celebrates its 40th Anniversary on Independence Day

The Ganesh Temple in Flushing was consecrated July 4, 1977.

Much of the elaborate exterior was imported from India.

While the temple is a pillar of the community, it comes from humble beginnings.

"At that time there were not many temples," said Uma Mysorekar, president of The Ganesh Temple. "Practically none at all. And there was a group of Indians who had come to live here, particularly in Flushing which was flooded with Indians, who decided they were very successful in their careers, but they missed something. That was spirituality."

These days, the temple welcomes Hindus and non-Hindus alike.

Many come not just to worship, but to enjoy Indian cuisine from the in-house restaurant.