About Vedic Center of Greenville
Learn about our history, mission, and the people who make our temple a spiritual home for the community
Foundation and Early Years
The roots of the Vedic Center trace back to the mid-1960s when the first generation of Indian immigrants arrived in South Carolina. In 1969, a group of 20-30 Indian families in Greenville formed the India Association to preserve their cultural and religious practices.
During the early years, this growing community rented space in churches and community buildings for their gatherings. However, by 1983, the group had grown significantly and began fundraising to purchase a permanent site. A key factor in this decision was comments from their children about having no dedicated place to pray and worship.
Construction and Dedication
Through generous community donations, some exceeding $5,000, the community purchased five acres at the corner of Bethel Road and Bethel Drive in 1987. A sacred bhumipuja ("Earth worship") ceremony, comparable to a groundbreaking, was held to dedicate the site.
Construction commenced immediately, and the center was completed in 1989, becoming the second Hindu religious center established in South Carolina (after Columbia). The Vedic Center is registered as a charitable institution in South Carolina.
Key Milestones
December 2, 1989
Inauguration service held with deity pictures in place
May 20-22, 1994
Murti Sthapana - Installation of sacred murtis from India
1991
All construction loans paid off - center became debt-free
Present
Continuous expansion and growth serving 400+ families
Community Growth and Funding
The initial capital was raised entirely through community donations, with expansion funding borrowed from First Federal of SC. Within two years, the complete loan was paid off, and the center became debt-free.
The center's main sources of income continue to be community donations, daily prayer collections, religious celebration offerings, and annual maintenance dues from member families. Special fundraising programs are organized throughout the year for facility expansion.
The center's relationship with its surrounding neighborhood has been peaceful throughout its history, encountering little to no difficulties or prejudices from the broader community.
Our Priests
Dedicated priest serving the community with traditional Vedic rituals and daily temple services.
Availability:
All Days (8:30 AM - 2:30 PM)
Experienced priest conducting pujas, ceremonies, and spiritual guidance for devotees.
Availability:
All Days (12:00 PM - 6:00 PM)
Devoted priest providing evening services and spiritual guidance to the temple community.
Availability:
All Days (2:30 PM - 8:00 PM)
Priest Services
Temple Services
- • Daily aarti and darshan
- • Special festival pujas
- • Abhishekam ceremonies
- • Bhajan and kirtan sessions
Personal Services
- • Wedding ceremonies
- • Housewarming (Griha Pravesh)
- • Sacred thread ceremonies
- • Other religious ceremonies
Note: For personal ceremonies and special requests, please contact the priests directly during their availability hours.
Board of Trustees
Leading the Board of Trustees and overseeing facility administration for the temple community.
Dedicated trustee contributing to the governance and spiritual mission of the Vedic Center.
Ketan Patel
Trustee
Serving the community as a trustee and actively involved in kitchen team operations.
Vinay Patel
Trustee
Trustee dedicated to temple governance and community kitchen team coordination.
Experienced trustee providing guidance and leadership for temple operations.
Support Committees
Religious Team
Coordinating religious ceremonies, festivals, and spiritual activities
Committee Members:
Youth/Kids Activities
Managing youth programs, children's education, and cultural activities
Committee Members:
Kitchen Team
Preparing prasadam and community meals for festivals and events
Committee Members:
Facility Admin
Managing temple facilities, maintenance, and infrastructure
Committee Members:
Community Health Services
Providing health guidance and medical support for the community
Committee Members:
Event Support Team
Organizing and coordinating special events and celebrations
Committee Members:
Audio/Video Team
Managing sound systems, recordings, and audiovisual equipment
Committee Members:
Senior Activities
Organizing programs and activities for senior community members
Committee Members:
Social Media
Managing online presence and digital communication
Committee Members:
IT
Providing technical support and managing digital infrastructure
Committee Members:
Volunteer Opportunities
The Vedic Center thrives thanks to the dedicated volunteers who contribute their time and skills across various committees. We welcome community members to join any of our support teams based on their interests and availability.
How to Get Involved:
- • Contact committee leads directly
- • Attend general body meetings
- • Speak with trustees or priests
Skills Needed:
- • Event planning and coordination
- • Teaching and youth mentoring
- • Technical and IT support
Time Commitment:
- • Flexible based on availability
- • Seasonal event support
- • Ongoing committee participation