Hindu Prarthana Samaj - Toronto, ON

The Hindu Prarthana Samaj, located at 62 Fern Avenue in Toronto's Roncesvalles area, holds a unique place in the city's history as its oldest Hindu temple. The congregation has been active in Toronto since the 1960s and officially acquired the former Fern Avenue Church of Christ building in 1979.

Key features

Historic Significance: Having served the Indian diaspora for over five decades, the temple is deeply cherished by its long-time devotees and is considered a spiritual home by many.

Renovation and Accessibility: In 2022, the temple began major renovations to transform its exterior to more closely resemble a traditional Hindu temple, including the addition of domes.
The project also includes interior upgrades, such as a new prayer room, dining area, and an elevator to enhance accessibility for all visitors.

Community Hub: The temple serves as a vital hub for the Hindu community in the Greater Toronto Area. Despite the influx of devotees moving to other parts of the city, many maintain a strong emotional and spiritual attachment to the Prarthana Samaj.

Inclusivity: The temple prides itself on being an open and inclusive space. It welcomes people from all religions and backgrounds to join in prayer, meditation, or community activities.

Worship and festivities: The temple hosts regular services and religious celebrations, serving as a center for Hindu religious events.

Spiritual education: It provides a space for spiritual reflection, prayer, and teachings, reinforcing Hindu culture and values within the community.

Parking: Limited parking is available, and visitors may need to find street parking nearby.

Accessibility: The ongoing renovations include features to improve accessibility, such as an elevator.