Hindu Samaj Northstowe's Campaign for a Mandir
A mandir is not just a place of worship—it’s a sanctuary for culture, community, and spiritual connection
For Hindus living in Cambridge and nearby areas, visiting a temple currently requires an hour-long drive to either Peterborough or Bedford. This has been the reality for the past six years, ever since water damage forced the closure of the worship space at the former library on Mill Road in Cambridge. The lack of a nearby Mandir has left many feeling disconnected from their faith and struggling to participate fully in traditional practices.
Now, a group based in Northstowe, a new town just north of Cambridge, is striving to change this situation. Hindu Samaj Northstowe (HSN) is preparing a proposal to establish a Hindu temple on a designated plot of land in the town. If successful, this would alleviate the challenges faced by local Hindus in practicing their faith fully and conveniently.
​
The proposed site for the temple is located to the east of Stirling Road. The area has been allocated for use by faith and volunteer groups, with South Cambridgeshire District Council planning to open the bidding process early this year.
Why a Mandir Matters
HSN's Community Events
HSN's 'Dharma Club' Children
For Hindus, a mandir is far more than a building; it is a sacred space that nurtures spiritual growth, cultural preservation, and community bonding. It provides a setting for performing religious rituals, celebrating festivals, and offering prayers, which are essential to maintaining one’s connection to faith and heritage.
“A mandir is a cornerstone for any Hindu community. It’s a place where people of all generations can come together, pray, and find peace," explains Aparna Nigam-Saxena, founder and chairperson of HSN, who has lived in Northstowe for three years. She is leading the temple campaign and coordinating the bid. "We founded Hindu Samaj Northstowe three years ago, and from the start, we dreamed of creating a temple. Without one, many families here have been holding ceremonies in their homes or gardens, but it’s not the same. A mandir allows you to experience the essence of devotion and tradition in a communal space."
Community spaces have their limitations, Aparna added, particularly for events such as Maha Shivaratri, a night-long observance honoring Lord Shiva. “Most venues close at night, which makes it difficult for us to carry out rituals fully. For Maha Shivaratri this year, we’ve been given access to the Northstowe Community Centre until midnight, but after that, we have to pack up and leave."
​
The importance of a mandir extends beyond the Hindu faith itself. It serves as a hub for cultural education, where younger generations can learn about their heritage through language, music, dance, and storytelling. It also provides an opportunity for people of all backgrounds to engage with Hindu culture, fostering greater understanding and inclusivity in the wider community.
A Shared Vision for the Future
Aparna also emphasised the transformative impact a temple would have on the community. “This is not just about building a place of worship,” she said. “It’s about creating a space that will enrich the lives of everyone in the area. A mandir will bring people together, promote understanding, and celebrate the beauty of diversity in our region.”
She added, “It will be more than a place of worship—it will be a symbol of cultural pride, spiritual solace, and community unity. It will serve as a testament to the city’s commitment to inclusivity, providing a place where everyone, regardless of background, can come together to celebrate, learn, and grow.”
HSN’s vision for the temple extends beyond traditional boundaries, reflecting a broader goal to connect communities, preserve cultural heritage, and share the values of harmony and compassion that are at the heart of Hindu philosophy.
