The Rudraksh Convention Center in Varanasi will be the venue for the world’s largest International Temple Convention and Expo (ITCX), scheduled to take place from July 22 to 24, 2023. The event, organized by Temple Connect, marks a significant milestone as it is the first time such a convention is being held, dedicated solely to the management of temples. The conference aims to nurture and empower the governance, management, and operations of temples worldwide, with participation expected from more than 450 temple functionaries representing 25 countries.
Inauguration by RSS Chief
The prestigious conference will be inaugurated by Mohan Bhagwat, the chief of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), on July 22. This auspicious beginning sets the tone for the event, emphasizing its significance and attracting attention from temple authorities, scholars, and devotees from around the world. The presence of prominent figures like Mohan Bhagwat adds credibility and reinforces the importance of the International Temple Convention and Expo.
Dedicated to Temple Management
The International Temples Convention and Expo is a unique initiative conceived by Temple Connect, an organization based in India. It is the first event of its kind that focuses exclusively on the management of temples. Temples hold immense cultural and religious significance, and efficient governance and management are essential to their preservation and growth. This convention aims to facilitate knowledge exchange, best practices sharing, and discussions on temple management, addressing the specific needs and challenges faced by temple functionaries.
Participants and Collaboration
The conference is expected to witness the participation of over 450 temple functionaries from 25 countries. This diverse gathering provides a platform for global collaboration and an opportunity to learn from each other’s experiences. The event is not limited to the Hindu community; office bearers of Math-Temples and Gurudwaras belonging to Sikh, Buddhist, and Jainism traditions have also been invited. This inclusive approach promotes interfaith dialogue, cultural exchange, and mutual understanding, strengthening the global spiritual ecosystem.
Support from Incredible India Campaign and Ministry of Tourism
The International Temple Convention and Expo is being organized as part of the Incredible India campaign, a flagship initiative by the Government of India to promote tourism and showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage. The collaboration with the Union Ministry of Tourism further emphasizes the government’s commitment to supporting and promoting the development of religious tourism and pilgrimage sites. This event serves as a platform to showcase the magnificence of temples and their role in attracting visitors from around the world.
Advancing Temple Management Practices
The International Temple Convention and Expo is a significant step forward in advancing temple management practices. By bringing together experts, scholars, and temple functionaries, it creates an environment conducive to sharing insights, discussing challenges, and exploring innovative solutions. The conference will cover various aspects of temple management, including governance, finance, technology adoption, heritage preservation, and community engagement. The exchange of ideas and experiences will contribute to the development of comprehensive strategies for the effective and sustainable management of temples.
Promoting Cultural Tourism
In addition to its religious and spiritual significance, temples are also important cultural landmarks. The International Temple Convention and Expo provides an opportunity to showcase the architectural brilliance, artistic heritage, and cultural richness of temples from different parts of the world. This exposure promotes cultural tourism and encourages visitors to explore and appreciate the diverse temple traditions globally.