The Durga Shiva Mandir Inc., was originally founded in 1988 and later became incorporated in August of 1990. The Mandir was started in the basement of the Late Pandit Chandricka Sukul, located at 1341 Bronx River Ave., with few devotees. Over time, the congregation grew. In 1993, using funds that were raised, the Mandir acquired new property. Over the next two years, renovations were made. Finally, on April 1, 1995, the Mandir was opened at its current location of 1120 Beach Ave., making it the first above ground Mandir in the Bronx.