Potomac, Maryland, USA: The Maryland General Assembly and its Asian American and Pacific Islander Legislative Caucus recognised ISKCON Temple in Washington, D.C., during its 2026 Janmashtami celebration for its efforts to promote Hindu heritage, culture, arts and community engagement.
Devotees and members of the Indian-American community gathered at the temple to celebrate Janmashtami, marking the birth of Lord Krishna. As part of the celebrations, devotees swung baby Krishna, or Laddu Gopal, in a decorated cradle known as a jhula. The ritual symbolises welcoming the newborn Lord Krishna into the devotee’s home and heart.
Maryland State Senator Clarence Lamb presented the citation to ISKCON leadership on September 4 on behalf of the Maryland General Assembly. He commended the temple for its continued contributions to Montgomery County, Maryland, and the wider Washington, D.C., region.
Eminent Indian-American nephrologist Dr Arul Vigg also joined the Janmashtami celebrations.
Lamb praised the Hindu-American community for its contributions to Maryland and highlighted Janmashtami as an occasion that brings together thousands of people from Maryland, Virginia and the wider Washington area.
“We cherish all the contributions that our Hindu American community makes to the state of Maryland,” Lamb said, adding that members of the General Assembly stand as “partners” and “allies” to the community.
The citation congratulated ISKCON on its 2026 Janmashtami celebration and recognised its efforts to promote Hindu heritage, culture, arts and food while strengthening the Hindu-American community.
The temple welcomed devotees from across the region, creating an atmosphere of devotion and community participation.
Lamb also praised ISKCON for its work supporting the local community, Montgomery County and the wider region, noting that the temple has become an important presence in Potomac and surrounding areas.
Speaking at the event, Lamb said it was an honour to commemorate the birth of Lord Krishna with the Hindu-American community and expressed his appreciation for the warm welcome extended by the temple leadership.
