The largest Hindu temple in California, BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Chino Hills, was defaced with messages against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The San Bernadino County Sheriff responded to the incident, with the cost of repairs estimated to exceed $15,000, and no suspects identified. The Hindu American Foundation called for federal authorities to investigate the defacement. BAPS, or Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha, is a socio-spiritual Hindu faith rooted in the Vedas. It prescribes five lifetime vows including no alcohol, addictions, adultery, meat, and impurity of body and mind. The faith’s former leader Pramukh Swami Maharaj summarized its spiritual tenets in the phrase, “in the joy of others lies our own.” BAPS has over 5,000 centers worldwide and over 100 centers in the U.S. The community in Chino Hills and Southern California vowed to stand steadfast against hate, ensuring that peace and compassion prevail. The incident sparked outrage within the Hindu community and beyond, with calls for justice and support for those affected by the vandalism. The incident highlights the need for unity and solidarity in the face of hate and discrimination, emphasizing the importance of standing together in the face of adversity.
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