1.0 Purpose and Philosophy
The Arya Samaj Dining Hall and Yagya Shala are spiritual spaces dedicated to the propagation of Vedic values. While we are pleased to make these spaces available for rent to the community, all rentals must strictly align with the beliefs, principles, and practices of Arya Samaj. The facility is not merely a venue but a part of a spiritual center, and all activities must respect this sanctity.
2.0 Eligibility and Permitted Use
Mandatory Belief Alignment:
All events, ceremonies, and rituals conducted on the premises must be consistent with Arya Samaj beliefs. Activities, rituals, or conduct that contradict Vedic principles are strictly prohibited. ASGH management reserves the sole right to determine if an event aligns with these values.
Exclusive Officiant Policy:
All ritual Sanskars, Havans, and religious ceremonies must be performed exclusively by the Arya Samaj of Greater Houston Priest (Acharya).
Eligibility:
Rental priority is given first to official Arya Samaj functions, and second to active ASGH members. Requests will also be considered from non-profit organizations and non-members.
- Voucher Requirement: Non-members who do not attend programs regularly must obtain a voucher from the Management Committee and be approved by an assigned Management Committee member.
Permitted Events:
- Dining Hall: Suitable for private family gatherings such as birthdays, anniversaries, and community meetings.
- Yagya Shala: Available for religious ceremonies (Havan, Sanskar).
Prohibited Events:
Political rallies, commercial sales, fundraisers for external organizations (without approval), or any activity illegal or contrary to Arya Samaj principles.
Exclusions:
The Reception Lobby is excluded from the rental unless explicitly included in the rental package.
3.0 Food, Beverage, & Facility Policy (Strictly Enforced)
- Food: Strictly Lacto-Vegetarian (no meat, fish, poultry, or eggs). Dairy is allowed.
- Beverages: Non-alcoholic beverages only. No Alcohol allowed on premises (including parking lot).
- Smoking/Vaping: Strictly prohibited on the entire property
4.0 Rates, Fees, and Booking
- Inquiry: Contact the ASGH Facility Coordinator to check availability.
- Security Deposit: A refundable deposit of $500 is required to reserve the date.
- Payment: Full payment is due 14 days prior to the event.
4.1 Rate Schedule
The following rates apply to facility rentals and Acharya services.
The following rates apply to facility rentals and Acharya services.
| Service Type | Location | Details | Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wedding | In Houston (Off-site) | Service performed at an external venue. | $1,500 |
| Wedding | Out of Town | Service performed outside the Houston area. | $2,000 + Travel* |
| Sanskars (Havan, Birthday, Namkaran, Mundan, Griha Pravesh) |
In Houston (Off-site) | Service performed at an external venue/home. | $1,000 |
| Sanskars (Havan, Birthday, Namkaran, Mundan, Griha Pravesh) |
Out of Town | Service performed outside the Houston area. | $2,000 + Travel* |
| Funeral Services | In Town | Antyeshti Sanskar services. | $1,500 |
| Standard Facility Rental | ASGH Premises | Havan in Hall or Yagyashala. Lunch/Dinner events (without full kitchen access). |
$1,100 |
| Full Facility Rental | ASGH Premises | Includes Dining Hall, Foyer, and Kitchen. | $2,100 |
| Partial Facility Rental | ASGH Premises | Includes Foyer and Kitchen only. | $1,000 |
| Small Event Package | ASGH Premises | Strict Limit: Less than 20 people. Includes Acharya services. (With or without Dining Hall use). |
$500 |
*Travel arrangements (flight/hotel/transport) for Out of Town services are the financial responsibility of the client.
4.2 Mandatory Event Staffing
- Focal Contact Person: For all facility rentals, the renter is required to pay for one designated ASGH Focal Contact Person. This individual will serve as the primary point of contact for facility services on the day of the event.
- Cost: The rate for this service is $20 per hour for the duration of the event (including setup and cleanup time). This fee is paid by the renter in addition to the rental rates listed above.
5.0 Renter Responsibilities
- Capacity: Maximum occupancy [XX] persons.
- Cleaning: Renter must leave the hall clean, bag all trash, and remove decorations.
- Liability: ASGH is not responsible for personal property. Renter is liable for facility damages.
6.0 Security Deposit Refunds
The $500 deposit is refunded within 14 days post-event, provided:
- The facility was cleaned properly.
- No damage occurred.
- No alcohol/meat/smoking policies were violated.
- The event concluded on time.