Our Story
The late Chandar Sen ji was born in Fiji Islands, developed a love for the Ramayan from a young age. As a child, he often joined his father in Ramayan mandali gatherings, sometimes every Tuesday, right in their home in Fiji. His passion for the Ramayan was clear; when he immigrated to Canada, he brought his father's original Ramayan along with him, a treasured piece of his heritage.
Late Chandar Sen ji married a wonderful woman, Lyn, and together they had two children. Lyn’s support was unwavering, and she encouraged his devotion to the Ramayan gatherings, including the Brahm Anand Ramayan Mandali. This mandali had begun in the home of Brij Ram Sharma, with his own father, Govardhan Maharaj.
Chandar Sen ji's journey was one of deep devotion to Lord Ram and Lord Krishna. He traveled widely, including to India, seeking fulfillment and spiritual knowledge. Chandar Sen ji believed strongly in giving back to the community and leaving the world better than he found it. Following the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, he saw building temples as a way to serve the community. His vision materialized when he and Lyn generously donated their home and her inheritance to establish the Richmond Mandir in British Columbia. He contributed to temples in India and Fiji as well, yet his enduring legacy remains at the Ram Krishna Mandir on No. 5 Road in Richmond British Columbia.
Many supporters joined him in this journey. Founding members who supported the initial down payment included:
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Our late Guru, Swami Jai Bhagwan Sharma Chakardhari Ji
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Rajendra Prasad and Maya Ji
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Prabhu Dholliwar (Roger) and Parvati Ji
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Gayendar (Jerry) and Malti Ji
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The late Savitri Narayan Ji
Although some contributions were loans, many others were donations. Local businesses like Mona Cloth House and Punjab Cloth House also rallied in support, with countless volunteers contributing their time, labor, and voices. Today, the temple continues under the guidance of the Brahm Anand Ramayan Mandali, with President Atma Ram Maharaj and Director Brij Ram Sharma leading events and bookings.
Late Chandar Sen ji is survived by his two children and a grandchild. His life’s work, supported by so many dedicated individuals, has left an invaluable legacy through the Vedic Cultural Society of BC (Ram Krishna Mandir).
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Pundit Chaman Lal Sharma Shastri Ji
Born in Himachal, India, Pundit Ji graduated from Punjab University Chandigarh in 1988 completing his Sharstri Degree.
After meeting our founder, Chandar Sen in 2007 in Dehli, Pundit Ji Immigrated to Richmond, BC, Canada in 2013, Pundit Ji immediately took responsibility as the Pandit at our mandir.
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Pundit Ji comes from generations of Pandit Pooja Karmkant