The need for a group like this was obvious; there was no Hindu organization in the Tri-County area to fulfill the needs of the Hindu population.The name of the organization was initially Ft. Lauderdale Hindu Organization, but was later changed to Florida Hindu Organization, to encompass all of Florida. The need for a group like this was obvious; there was no Hindu organization in the Tri-County area to fulfill the needs of the Hindu population. Services began at members’ homes. Soon, the word spread quickly via the Sun Sentinel. Hindus from all over the Caribbean countries came together to pray. The size of the congregation outgrew the homes of members, and parking became a problem.

The Executive decided to look for land space. They located and bought four lots of land in Orange Manors, Oakland Park. Members bought adjacent lots for future developments of the FHO. In 1991, the Shiva Mandir was completed, under the able leadership of both Pt. Ramsurat Maharaj and Hanuman Jeethan, a Civil Engineer, and past President of the FHO.

As with all organizations, the FHO has had its fair share of stumbling blocks. But, by sheer determination, it has overcome may of them. The year 1994 witnessed the entrance of a brand-new, young and energetic Executive. This group of young men and their families restored confidence in the membership. In a short space of time, seventeen lots of land were bought. Improvements to three lots were made. More pundits attended and rendered their services voluntarily, and the focus became the young children.

Today, Baal Vikas class is held at the Shiva Mandir every Friday night and the average attendance is seventy five students. The teachers under the leadership of Vashti Ramsumair are doing a tremendous job teaching the kids mantras, bhajans, hindi and lessons on moral and cultural values.

The Shiva Mandir is now under the guidance of Pt. Bimal Maharaj our Spiritual Leader and poised to face the challenges of this new century with good leadership, families, and students, Plans are to build a hall next to the Mandir, an indoor kitchen and expand the Mandir existing facility. This hall will to be for all classes, shows, wedding receptions, dining facility etc.

As you can see, remarkable progress is being made. And with your assistance, both morally and financially, we will become a more vibrant Hindu Organization.

On behalf of the Executive we extend best wishes to all.