About Me

Biography of Sri. Rajagopal Chari,

Sri Rajagopal Chari, the founder and President of the Hindu Education and Cultural Society of America (HECSA) and the Portland Balaji Temple, got the foundational training from the Acharya for over 15 years. Rajagopal had a vision which inspired him to make a commitment.  He resolved to contribute effectively to create an institution for imbibing the tenets of Hinduism and its rich culture.  He considered the Vedic times when a Temple provided that base.  For this endeavor, he and his followers thought it best to start in a small Hindu community that is committed and enthusiastic.  They could not have done any better than begin in Portland, Oregon, where hundreds have encouraged them to go forward. 

Sri Rajagopal ji moved to the United States in 2000.  He graduated in Yajur Veda at Sri Ahobila Mutt Sanskrit College (600 Years Old Organization), Madhuranthakam, and India.  That program enabled him to become proficient in, among other things, Yajur Veda, Purva Prayogam, temple Aradhana Kramam and Yaga (Vedic Studies) procedures.  He has also learned Dhivya Prabhandam, Desika Sthotrams and Apara Prayogams from Yajur Veda Shuradyayi Pazaveri Sri U Ve Satagopachariyar. He has served as Chief Priest in Ahobila Mutt, Head Priest Sri Ranganatha Temple (NY) and Head Priest Sri Guruvayoorappan Temple (NJ).

Sri Rajagopal Chari is loved and respected by a very important group of people – the youngsters in our community.  After all, it is they that will occupy our Temples in the future.  Having good priests and teachers to create a spiritual setting is a key issue in the process.  He moved to the Portland area, with his family, to execute his vision. Rajagopal Travel around the United States to performs various religious ceremonies for his followers.

That experience has convinced him about the need for a Temple in the Portland area that would practice the Vedic tradition and serve its community well. Sri Rajagopal seeks the Lord’s blessings to make their vision a reality.