New Jersey: The Shirdi Sai Cultural & Community Center in Iselin, New Jersey, hosted grand Dussehra celebrations this year, drawing over 1,000 participants from the Telugu community. Founded by renowned cancer specialist Dr. Nori Dattatreyudu in 2008, the temple has become a significant cultural hub.
The festivities included traditional Durga Puja, a grand Palkhi procession, and the exchange of Jammie leaves as a symbol of victory and prosperity.
The six-foot-tall statue of Sai Baba in the temple is an exact replica of the one in Shirdi, India. Alongside religious activities, the temple organizes year-round community welfare programs like medical camps, blood drives, and free yoga classes.
Dr. Nori, a prominent radiation oncologist, is celebrated for his philanthropic efforts, including founding the temple and contributing to the Basavatarakam Indo-American Cancer Hospital in Hyderabad.
The Dussehra celebrations event showcased cultural unity and devotion, highlighting the Shirdi Sai temple’s role in fostering community spirit.
All images courtesy: Dr. Shiva Kumar Anand.
