FLASHBACK: History of the Vedic Cultural Centre
A true community initiative
By: Camille Batra (Ross)

August 18^th 1996, marked the glorious opening of the majestic Vedic Cultural Centre. The grand structure is a glowing tribute to the determination, perseverance and teamwork of our Arya Samaj community.

As we approach the 30^th anniversary of The Vedic Cultural Centre, it’s important to look back at the tremendous effort it took to accomplish this feat. It’s equally important to ensure that present and future generations appreciate the sacrifices of those who came before us.  

The VCC was a joint effort between Toronto Arya Samaj (TAS) and Arya Samaj Markham (ASM) -formerly known as Arya Samaj Toronto. Both organizations were independently started in the early 1970’s. They conducted havan services in community halls, and local schools. As the years passed by, the desire for their own place of worship became a priority. The leaders of the two groups formed a friendship, and occasionally visited each others’ services.

Amar Erry, leader of ASM at the time, approached TAS and suggested they construct a mandir together.  He was steadfast in his pursuit. ASM had already purchased two adjoining lots on approximately two acres of land, located at 4345 – 14^th Avenue in 1986. The intention was to build the Vedic Cultural Centre / Arya Samaj Mandir at the site.

In 1994, the two organizations formalized a Memorandum of Understanding. The intent was to pool their resources, and join forces in establishing a common place of worship. On the TAS side, Anand Rupnarain, Doodie Ross, and Adit Kumar were instrumental in providing leadership in this direction. On the ASM side, other key figures who were resolute include Sat Chopra, Kewal Sethi, Sudershen Beri, and Surendra Shahi,

Prior to the agreement, in 1990, Anu Banerji, Head of Architecture at the University of Guelph, along with Architect Suresh Parab, were commissioned to come up with a design for the building. The goal was for it to be modern, meet the needs of the community, and above all- align with Hindu philosophy. The conceptual drawings later became remarkable official architectural designs. Then came the challenging task of having the property re-zoned with the Town of Markham.  A project of this magnitude had a projected capital cost of 3.5 million dollars.

This joint construction project began in May of 1995. Members of both communities were filled with enthusiasm, and highly motivated. Funding for the building came in the form of a 1-million-dollar grant from the Government of Ontario, in addition to a 1.5-million-dollar loan from The Royal Bank of Canada, innumerable community fundraisers (concerts, raffles, dinners, bus trips, car washes, tea parties), and generous donations from members.  

TAS volunteers played a central role in the building’s completion. They put in countless hours in the construction phase, specifically with drywall and painting, to help cut costs and be ready for opening day. Certain members took a week’s vacation to help out. Others worked the full weekend. Some of the volunteers and their families traveled hundreds of kilometres from as far as London, Hamilton, Mississauga and Brampton to help. These men and women were honoured at the grand opening of the VCC, which was graced by Swami Veda Bharati. Their sacrifices show the true power of selflessness and service to one’s community. Among the standout volunteers were: Balram Prashad, Tarachand Persaud, Ganesh Parma, Dr. Narine, Ramesh Hazarie, Basdeo Maulakhan, Jainarine Ramjit, Doodie Ross, and Ashwini Rajpal.

A project this grand, took incredible support from respective communities, other Hindu organizations, local associations, community leaders, and business leaders who provided strength and support in the application process for government funding.

It was only made possible because of the genuine love and respect shared by the members, and by the leadership of both groups. All parties showed exceptional cooperation and vigour, as they worked toward fulfilling a dream.

In the early years, the TAS committee was comprised of Anand Roopnarine, Doodie Ross, Harry Ramkehelawan, Ramchand Chatterpaul, Brahas Singh, Bob Narine, Ed Bhajan, Vivek Ramcharran and others.  Among the main supporting families were the Narsingh family, the Umadas family, the Kumar family, the Ramoutar family, and many more. These individuals helped out in whatever way they could to accomplish this shared goal. Fundraising was everyone’s job, and they did it with an indomitable spirit.

What initially seemed like a far-off dream became a reality. It was thanks to the profound dedication of so many. They had the audacity to chase a big dream, and the courage to put in the work.  

DID YOU KNOW?

• The stately glass dome in the great hall weighs over 12 tonnes. It is constructed of steel and glass.
• The stunning glass dome was designed to illuminate the entire great hall with natural sun rays that would sparkle and kindle the spiritual strength of every soul in the congregation.
• The great hall has seating capacity of 800 people. The lower hall can accommodate 600 people.  
• At the time of construction, the building was equipped with state-of-the-art hi-tech audio and visual equipment.
• Initial cost:  3.5 million dollars
• Duration of construction: A single construction phase that lasted 15 months.
• The 17 window panels represent the main Upanishads of Hinduism.
• About 1500 people attended the grand opening on August 18^th 2026 – a day of sheer jubilation.
• The mandir is a beacon of light for Hindus all over the world