Sri Siva Vishnu Temple, Lanham, Maryland
A Sacred Center of Hindu Faith, Culture, and Architecture in the United States
The Sri Siva Vishnu Temple, located at 6905 Cipriano Road, Lanham, Maryland 20706, stands as one of the most prominent Hindu temples in North America. This sacred complex serves as a spiritual, cultural, and architectural landmark, preserving the rich traditions of Sanatana Dharma while uniting devotees from diverse backgrounds.
Temple Overview
Location and State
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Address: 6905 Cipriano Road, Lanham, MD 20706
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State: Maryland, USA
The temple is easily accessible from the Washington D.C. metropolitan area and welcomes thousands of devotees, visitors, and spiritual seekers throughout the year.
History and Construction
A Vision Realized Through Devotion
The construction of the Sri Siva Vishnu Temple began in 1988, driven by the collective vision and dedication of devotees. After years of meticulous planning, craftsmanship, and spiritual preparation, the temple was fully completed in 2002, culminating in the consecration of the final deity.
Each phase of construction followed traditional Agamic principles, ensuring authenticity and spiritual sanctity.
Architectural Excellence
A Blend of Classical South Indian Styles
The temple’s architecture reflects a harmonious blend of:
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Pallava Style
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Chola Style
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Vijayanagara Style
These ancient South Indian architectural traditions are evident in the detailed stone carvings, towering gopurams, ornate pillars, and symmetrical layouts. The temple stands as a masterpiece of sacred architecture recreated with precision on American soil.
Main Deities of the Temple
The presiding form of Lord Shiva is Sri Ramanathaswamy, the same deity worshipped at the revered Rameswaram Temple in India. This form represents divine compassion, liberation, and the sacred connection between Shiva and the oceanic pilgrimage.
Lord Vishnu – Ananthapadmanabha
Lord Vishnu is worshipped here as Sri Ananthapadmanabha, the deity of the world-famous Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Kerala. This majestic form symbolizes cosmic balance, protection, and eternal sustenance.
Associated Shrines and Deities
Divine Family and Forms of Shakti
The temple complex houses beautifully consecrated shrines for:
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Parvathi
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Lakshmi
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Saraswathi
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Durga
These forms of the Divine Mother represent power, prosperity, knowledge, and protection.
Avatars and Beloved Deities
Additional shrines are dedicated to:
• Sri Rama
• Sri Krishna
• Sri Ganapathi
• Sri Subrahmanya
• Sri Andal
• Sri Hanuman
• Navagrahas (Nine Planetary Deities)
Each shrine is designed to allow devotees to experience personalized worship and spiritual connection.
Ayyappa Shrine – Sabarimala Tradition in America
Unique 18-Step Shrine
A special highlight of the temple is the Sri Ayyappa Shrine, modeled after the famed Sabarimala Temple in India. The shrine includes the sacred 18 holy steps, symbolizing spiritual discipline, self-control, and devotion.
This shrine attracts thousands of Ayyappa devotees, especially during the Mandala and Makara Vilakku seasons.
Spiritual and Cultural Significance
A Living Center of Dharma
Beyond daily worship and rituals, the Sri Siva Vishnu Temple serves as a center for:
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Vedic chanting and poojas
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Religious festivals and utsavams
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Cultural programs and classical arts
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Spiritual education for youth and adults
The temple plays a vital role in preserving Hindu traditions for future generations in the United States.
A Divine Home Away from Home
The Sri Siva Vishnu Temple in Lanham, Maryland is more than a place of worship it is a sacred sanctuary where tradition, devotion, and community come together. With its authentic architecture, revered deities, and vibrant spiritual life, the temple stands as a timeless symbol of Hindu heritage and faith in the Western world.
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