East Dallas’ Kalachandji’s — known for its vegetarian lunch and dinner buffets — also exemplifies our neighborhood’s religious diversity
The Christian holiday Christmas garners great attention this time of year, but East Dallas is home to people practicing various religions. The popular vegetarian restaurant Kalachandji’s, for example, is part of a Hare Krishna community full of devoted followers whose vivacious festivals, such as spring’s Benediction Moon Festival, include singing, dancing, chanting and feasting in the streets of East Dallas. The food at Kalachandji’s restaurant, which is enjoyed by patrons of all doctrines, satisfies body and soul, followers say, and is an integral part of religious ceremony. Photographer Hilary Schleier earlier this year captured images of the Hare Krishna rituals inside and around the restaurant and temple.
Worshippers perform ceremonial bathing of the Krishna deities in yogurt. Hindus and members of its Hare Krishna denomination believe the religious statues represent God.
A worshiper prostrates on the temple floor.
A woman prays in the temple at Kalachandji’s.
Temple president Nityananda Dasa Adhikaari offers Arati, a ritual of worship.
Temple members hold hands and dance during a live Kirtan show.
Nityananda Chandra Granger meditates in the gardens at Kalachandji’s.
Satya Devi Dasi performs Arati ritual.
Raivin Alexandria watches temple members prepare flowers for the Benediction Moon Festival.
A temple member plays music during a Wednesday-evening class.
Dayananda Das performs Arati ritual.
Music is an important part of the festivities.
Temple members observe the ceremonial bathing of the Krishna deities in yogurt.
A temple member plays music during a Wednesday-evening class.
Chetan Patel, Rupa Tansey, Hari Chanm, and Kapil Patel sing and chant in the temple room during the Benediction Moon Festival.
To learn more about Sri Sri Radha Kalachandji Mandir Hare Krishna temple visit radhakalachandji.com or for a guided tour call 214.669.3369
