Murfreesboro, TN - A striking new landmark has quietly emerged on the southern edge of Murfreesboro. The Shree Swaminarayan Temple and Cultural Center, located at 4295 Shelbyville Pike (Hwy 231 South), opened its doors just weeks ago, though construction crews are still completing the finishing touches. Towering over Highway 231-South, the temple is already drawing attention—not just for its architectural beauty, but for its spiritual and cultural significance.
Spanning more than 36,000 square feet in size and built on nearly 16 acres (15.85 acres), the $13 million facility is one of the largest Hindu temples in the region. It features a grand worship hall, a banquet space for community events, and parking for over 160 vehicles. But its purpose goes far beyond bricks and mortar. The land on which the worship center was built was purchased in 2019, according to the Rutherford County Property Assessor.
Guided by Acharya Gyanmahodadhi Param Pujya Shri Jitendriyapriyadasji Swamis’re Maharaj, the temple was established to promote Indian culture and the teachings of the Swaminarayan faith—a tradition rooted in peace, compassion, and service. The temple is part of the global Manin agar Shree Swaminarayan Gadi Sans than, which has built similar centers around the world.
While many attendees are local residents, the temple is designed to host large regional gatherings, welcoming devotees from across Tennessee and neighboring states. Monks, known as sadhus, live on-site and lead daily prayers, rituals, and educational programs. Their presence adds a layer of spiritual depth to the temple’s mission, offering guidance and connection to followers.
The temple’s proximity to Middle Tennessee State University has also sparked interest among students and faculty, particularly those of Indian heritage or Hindu faith. Though exact numbers aren’t available, temple leaders say they’ve seen growing participation from the campus community.
Murfreesboro’s religious landscape is becoming increasingly diverse, reflecting the city’s growing multicultural population. There are 2 Hindu temples—including the newly opened Shree Swaminarayan Temple on Shelbyville Pike—the city is also home to a Muslim Mosque, the Islamic Center of Murfreesboro, 3 Buddhist temples, and the Dhamma kaya Meditation Center. Christian churches of nearly every denomination are also well represented.
Despite their differences in doctrine and practice, these faith communities share common values: a commitment to spiritual growth, service to others, and fostering a sense of belonging. Many host cultural events, educational programs, and interfaith dialogues that bring people together across religious lines.
