Sri Mariamman Temple is also the name of a large Hindu temple in Medan, Indonesia, and of many temples in Tamil Nadu, India.

The Sri Mariamman Temple (Chinese: 马里安曼兴都庙) is the largest and oldest Hindu temple in Singapore, and is located in the Chinatown district within the Central Area, Singapore's central business district.

History

Its history began in 1827 when Narayana Pillay, a government clerk in Penang who arrived in the same ship with Sir Stamford Raffles, erected a simple wood and attap hut. To mark the opening of his temple, Pillay installed a small deity in the main sanctum. The grounds were later expanded when an Indian landowner, Seshasalam Pillay, donated some property.

In 1843, the present temple was constructed by Indian ex-convicts mostly from Madras, who were craftsmen skilled in plasterwork. The temple was dedicated to the goddess Mariamman who is worshipped for her power to protect against disease and death.

From its inception, Sri Mariamman Temple

Sri Mariamman Temple was gazetted as a national monument on 6 July 1973.

Architecture

Built in the south Indian Dravidian style, the temple most outstanding feature is the impressive gopuram (tower). Rising above the entrance, it features Hindu deities, soldiers and floral decorations. Flanking it are statues of Shiva and Vishnu.

Within the temple is a main prayer hall with richly decorated ceilings. The location of four shrines in the temple is marked by an ornately embellished onion dome which can be seen from outside.

Today

Once every 12 years, in keeping with Hindu tradition, the temple is reconsecrated. The unique annual fire-walking ceremony is held about a week before Deepavali -- the Festival of Lights.

Reference

• National Heritage Board (2002), Singapore's 100 Historic Places, Archipelago Press, ISBN 9814068233