New York, NY – Hindu leaders are pushing for a designated prayer space at John F. Kennedy International Airport, one of the busiest airports in the world, calling for the creation of a “Hindu Mandir” for worship, meditation, and religious services.
A request for equal space
Rajan Zed, president of the Universal Society of Hinduism, said in a statement that the airport’s large number of Hindu travelers and employees should have access to a quiet space for prayer, similar to the facilities already available for other major religions.
JFK currently houses the Our Lady of the Skies Roman Catholic Chapel, Christ for the World Protestant Chapel, the International Synagogue, and the JFK Masjid, all located on the departure level of Terminal Four. The airport is operated by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, which answers to the governors of both states.
Zed urged Gov. Kathy Hochul of New York and Gov. Phil Murphy of New Jersey, along with Port Authority leadership, to consider the request as a matter of fairness and equality. He added that Hindu scholars would be willing to assist in planning the structure and practices of the temple.
Proposed temple features
Hindus envision the “Hindu Mandir” including murtis (statues of deities), sacred scriptures, a traditional bell, devotional music, and daily rituals such as kirtan and aarti. The temple would serve both travelers and employees, ensuring they do not miss daily worship traditions that can include recitation of texts, chanting of mantras, and meditation.
Longstanding airport chapels
JFK’s religious spaces have been in place for decades. The Catholic Chapel, founded in 1955, offers services ranging from masses and confessions to grief support and weddings. The Protestant Chapel, established in 1964, provides Bible study, counseling, and worship. The International Synagogue, dedicated in 1967, is open for prayer, study, and meditation, while the JFK Masjid offers daily and Friday prayers along with community support services.
With over 1.2 billion Hindus worldwide and about 3.2 million in the United States, advocates say the inclusion of a Hindu temple would reflect the diverse religious community that passes through JFK every day.
Key Points
- Hindu leaders are urging JFK Airport to establish a Hindu temple for prayer and meditation.
- JFK already has Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, and Muslim worship spaces in Terminal Four.
- The proposed “Hindu Mandir” would include deities, scriptures, music, and daily rituals.