Why visiting Sri Mariamman Temple is the best thing to do in Singapore
Do you have a layover in Singapore Changi Airport but it’s not enough to visit more than a couple of attractions? Fear not, for I will show you why picking Sri Mariamman Temple in Chinatown is one of the best choices you can make.
It is the oldest Hindu temple in the city
Built by Mr Naraina Pillai, an Indian merchant working for East India Company, Sri Mariamman Temple’s oldest parts go back to 1827.
The magnificent gopuram of the temple
A gopuram is a pyramid-shaped structure found in all Tamil temples. The gopuram of Sri Mariamman Temple was erected in 1903 and it became a widely recognised landmark, acting as a beacon for worshippers and pilgrims in the area.
You can witness an actual firewalking ceremony
Sri Mariamman Temple in Singapore has been hosting Thimithi since 1840, so if it happens to visit Singapore between mid-October and mid-November don’t miss the chance to see it.
A definite place for culture buffs
Sri Mariamman Temple is more than a place of religion; it always served (and still does) as a focal point for the whole Hindu community in Singapore. For Hindus, it is a social place, where traditional ceremonies, like weddings, take place.
The temple’s colourful statues are being restored every 12 years
In a special ceremony called Kumbhabhishekham, skilled artisans from India are being brought to renovated the temple and restore the sculptures and the murals to their original vivid hues.
It is a true example of Dravidian architecture
Ever wondered how temples in South India look like? Visiting Sri Mariamman Temple will get you a rare glimpse into the impressive Dravidian architecture.
It has more deities than you can count
The temple is devoted to Sri Mariamman, a South Indian folk goddess worshipped by Tamils as the bringer of prosperity. However, the temple is full of intricate deity sculptures and colourful cultural figures, recounting the actual stories behind them.
Sri Mariamman Temple is a religious site, therefore, being prepared before your visit will greatly enhance your whole experience.
Is it worth a visit?
Sri Mariamman Temple is one of those landmarks that you visit and never forget. It is a true taste of Tamil traditions and adds an additional layer of culture to the whole city of Singapore. Kitsch plasterwork, colourful paintings, magnificent statues — what more can you ask?
Feel free to read the full story at https://www.mileswithvibes.com/singapore/sri-mariamman-temple-hindu-spiritual-destination/
Copyright © Nikos Taskos. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
