Here you will find answers to common questions about the Ambika Centre project. If your question is not answered here, please feel free to contact us.

About the Project & Vision

1. What is the Ambika Centre?

The Ambika Centre is a community-led project to build a Mandir (Hindu temple) and a multi-purpose cultural hub in Almere Poort. Its vision is to be a peaceful sanctuary for spiritual activities and a vibrant centre for cultural learning, community gatherings, and professional networking.

2. Why was Almere Poort chosen as the location?

Almere Poort is the ideal location due to its exceptional connectivity (A6 motorway, train station), its young and diverse community, and its strategic position within the forward-thinking Amsterdam Metropolitan Area. It is the perfect place to build a lasting legacy.

3. What facilities will the complex have besides the Mandir?

Alongside the traditional Mandir prayer hall, the complex is planned to include versatile community halls for events, classrooms for cultural and educational activities, a library, and modern facilities designed to serve as a business and innovation hub.

4. What is the role of the Business Council Netherlands India (BCNI)?

This is a unique partnership. The Mandir and its spiritual activities will be independently managed by our community foundation. The adjoining business and innovation hub facilities are being developed in strategic partnership with the Business Council Netherlands India (BCNI). This creates a powerful synergy, establishing a premier destination for cultural exchange, entrepreneurship, and strengthening ties between the Netherlands and India.

Our Philosophy & Values

5. Who can visit the Ambika Centre?

Everyone. The Ambika Centre is founded on the principle of inclusivity. Our doors will be open to people of all faiths, beliefs, and backgrounds, including those with no religious affiliation. It is a place for the entire community to find peace and connection.

6. Will the Mandir represent a specific region or linguistic community from India?

No. The Ambika Centre Mandir is being built for the entire Hindu community as a home for all, transcending regional, linguistic, and national backgrounds. Whether you are from any state in India, or any other country like Suriname, Nepal, Sri Lanka, or beyond, this Mandir is your home. Our vision is to create a unifying space where all Sanatana Dharma traditions are respected, celebrated, and shared together.

7. Who will make decisions about the religious activities and management of the Mandir?

The current foundation (Stichting Ambika Centre) is responsible for the construction and establishment of the Mandir. Once the Mandir is operational, a dedicated Mandir Management Board will be formed. This board will be composed of representatives from the various communities that make up our congregation. This democratic and inclusive approach ensures that every group has a voice in the long-term spiritual governance and day-to-day operations of the Mandir.

8. How will the forms of worship, deities (Murtis), and festivals be decided?

All major decisions regarding the forms of worship, the installation of deities, and the annual calendar of festivals will be made through a collaborative and consultative process. This process will be led by the future Mandir Management Board, in discussion with learned priests and respected elders from across the community. Our goal is to establish practices that are inclusive and resonate with the diverse traditions of all our devotees, ensuring everyone feels spiritually connected and represented.

9. What are the core principles of the Centre?

The Centre will be a sanctuary of peace, purity, and non-violence (Ahimsa). To maintain this environment, the entire complex will be a strictly vegetarian zone, and no alcohol will be permitted on the premises.

10. What will the opening hours be?

The Ambika Centre is planned to be accessible to the community seven days a week, from early morning until late in the evening.

Governance & Trust

11. Who is managing this project? Is it a registered entity?

Yes, the project is managed by the Stichting Ambika Centre, a registered Dutch non-profit foundation. This legal structure ensures that the project is governed with full accountability, transparency, and a formal board of trustees composed of dedicated community volunteers. All activities are compliant with Dutch laws and regulations.

12. Is this project affiliated with any specific guru or organisation?

No. The Ambika Centre is a grassroots, independent initiative. It is not built under the guidance of any single spiritual guru or specific religious organisation, ensuring it remains an inclusive and welcoming space for all.

13. How do you guarantee financial transparency?

We are fully committed to financial transparency. As a registered Stichting, we will publish regular financial reports on our website detailing all funds raised and how they have been allocated. This will ensure every donor can see the progress and impact of their contribution.

14. What happens to my donation if the land purchase is unsuccessful?

Your trust is our priority. We have a Donor Protection Guarantee: in the unfortunate event that we are unable to secure the land for the project, all individual donations of €501 or more will be fully returned to the donors.

15. How will the Centre be managed financially after it is built?

The Centre is being designed with a sustainable operational model. After construction, day-to-day expenses will be covered through a combination of continued community donations, income from renting facilities for private and corporate events, and fees from educational and cultural programs.

Get Involved

16. How can I volunteer my time and skills?

We believe that the gift of time and skill (Seva) is as valuable as any donation. We need volunteers with a range of expertise, including event management, marketing, social media, IT support, fundraising, legal advice, and accounting. If you wish to contribute, please visit the 'Volunteer' section of our website or email us at office@damroo.eu

17. How can I donate?

Currently, all donations are being collected through our official, secure crowdfunding page on WhyDonate. This allows us to manage funds safely and transparently from the very beginning. You can find the link on our 'Donate' page.

18. How can I stay updated on the project's progress? The best way to stay informed is to subscribe to our official newsletter through our website. We will also be posting regular updates, milestones, and announcements on our social media channels. Follow us to be a part of the journey!