H. H. Swami Tejomayananda says, in his book - "Hindu Culture - An Introduction"
"In the Hindu tradition the temple was also meant for another purpose aside from fulfilling the spiritual needs of a person. It was also a place for secular learning, for lectures, for the celebration of special festivals and for the dedication of music and arts. The temples were places where people could come together to share common experiences, not only of spiritual nature but also those that were for the total cultural awakening and upliftment of the people - just like our community centers today."
Lord Jagadeeshwara Temple, Mumbai, India
Chinmaya Centers worldwide have, therefore, built temples and the main hall of the temple is for 'Satsangs' and lectures by eminent Swamis/Swaminis and Brahmacharis/ Brabmacharinis of Chinmaya Mission. Devotees or sevaks also give discourses in the temples. Bhajan Sandhyas performed by the Chinmaya Mission 'Devi Group', 'CHYK'S or by renowned artists are also organized in the temples. The Temples create an atmosphere of harmony and beauty to the approach of life and its varieties. Spiritual and cultural activities are organized to revive our ancient tradition, so as to build a bridge amongst different customs and sects.
The 'Aarti' is performed at particular timings in the morning and evening and all the devotees present at that time, in the temple, can take part in the 'Aarti'. The inmates of the Center perform Vedic chanting at dawn. Members of the Mission or the public can also join the chanting provided they are trained in this regard. Temple premises are kept scrupulously clean. A serene and peaceful environment is maintained so that the devotees can benefit from the divine atmosphere.