Abstract:

CONSECRATION OF A TEMPLE documents the final stages in the 1977 dedication of a new Hindu temple to Lord Venkateshvara (a representation of Vishnu) on a hillside near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The film tells two stories: (1) It shows the intricate Vedic rituals whereby the temple, its shrines, and its statues are converted into a sacred devotional center by pouring sacralized water over the temple spires. (2) It presents a portrait of the American immigrant community from India that raised the funds to build the temple and to bring from India the necessary craftsmen and priests to consecrate the temple's deities. Through interviews with members of the Indian community, the film captures their hopes that the temple may help preserve and transmit to their children their Indian languages and traditions."