In 1984, the DFW Hindu Temple Society purchased 7.5 acres of land in Parker, Texas (east of Plano) to build a 7,500 square foot traditional Hindu temple. Many residents objected to the project because its architecture differed from that of the local buildings and for religious reasons.
“I believe in the God of the Bible, so in essence I (am) against it,” said Rev. Rick Fowlkes, pastor of North Ridge Baptist Church.
The Dallas Anti-Defamation League helped negotiate a settlement with the city, but after facing such bigoted opposition, the Hindu Temple Society decided to sell the land back to the city for $8,000 less than what they paid for it.
In June 1988, they purchased more expensive land in Irving, Texas, which welcomed the temple. It was inaugurated on April 28, 1991.
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