About us
In 1848, the Salangpur Hanumanji temple dedicated to the Hindu god, Hanuman was built in South Gujurat, India.
Hanuman is the symbol of selfless service, strength and energy and is an ardent devotee of Rama.
Hanuman’s devotion inspires millions around the world who believe him to be the destroyer of evil and the protector of good.
Thirty years ago, devotees from the UK visited the Hanuman temple in India and wished for their own place of worship dedicated to the deity.
In 2003, the main saints of the India-based temple visited Leicester, leaving a strong impression on local devotees who continued to dream that a temple dedicated to Hanuman would one day become a reality.
The current Shree Hanuman temple, which is a recognised charity, opened in 2021. It is a branch of the original temple in India and the first in Europe to be dedicated to a shrine of the Hindu god Lord Hanuman.
However, it does not have the modern facilities or space to accommodate the growing congregation.
This has required a marquee to be put up outside the temple to help manage the large number of devotees who come to celebrate festivals and other events throughout the year.
Our plans
The Trustees are hoping to redevelop the existing temple site and build a unique structure which the community can be proud of.
A planning application for a new Hanuman temple is being prepared for submission to Leicester City Council later this year which aims to:
- provide improved high-quality community and religious facilities and landscaping
- provide significant public benefit to those within and out with the Hindu community
- improve the safety and amenity of the park
- further build on Leicester’s international reputation as a city of diversity providing a focal point to bring different communities together.
Our site
The Shree Hanuman temple, 299 Melton Road is on the Golden Mile in the Rushey Mead ward. The single storey building was previously a police station and is next to Rushey Fields.
Current prayer room at the temple
Aerial view of site
Benefits
Putting Leicester on the map - attracting thousands of people every year to the first temple dedicated to Hanuman outside India
Bringing investment to the area and further building on Leicester’s international reputation as a city of diversity
An opportunity to improve facilities in Rushey Fields Recreation Ground
A space at the heart of and for the whole community, regardless of sect, to hold public and private events
