Sri Mariamman Temple: Sri It for Yourself!

When in Singapore, Universal Studios, Marina Bay Sands Sky Park, Gardens by the Bay and the Raffles City are indubitably some amazing and famous yet cliche tourist spots to go to. Being called the Garden City, this green city depicts great efforts at balancing urbanization and nature conservation. Thanks to the continuous trend toward urbanization, the island’s culture hasn’t been forsaken, either.

Found within the vibrant Chinatown of Singapore lies a sacred Hindu Temple that is currently an important focal point of Hindi Life in the city today. Built in 1843, Sri Mariamman Temple consists of a pyramid-like tower with meticulously carved stones shaped with sculptures of Hindu gods and other cultural figures. The entrance tower, also called gopuram, is elaborately decorated with carved stones having faded hues of the primary colors blue, green, yellow and red that are sure to entice you, even giving off an illusion of the edifice being taller than it really is.

The Entrance Tower

Upon entering, make sure you take your shoes off and dress appropriately. An imposing sign right before you enter the temple is there to remind you that this place is sacred and must be taken seriously. Talking about the temple interiors, it as colorful as the outside with colorful paintings everywhere. You’ll see worshippers and musicians taking part in sensual, old yet interesting rituals. You’ll see many ornaments all beautifully arranged. The spiritual center of the temple is the central shrine of Mariamman, situated on either side by Rama and Murugan. Other shines in the temple are devoted to the gods; Durga, Ganesh, Muthularajah, Aravan, and Draupadi.

According to the Hindus, Sri Mariamman is the Mother Goddess that nourishes and protects all beings. Sri Mariamman is associated with rain; she gives life,nurtures and sustains it. She is the source of all energy without which nothing moves in this world; she has various forms which describe her attributes in eloquent appearances.

Another interesting fact about Sri Mariamman Temple is that there is a complex hosting an auditorium, oftenly used for weddings, meetings, and cultural events, and other rooms to service the Hindu community right across the street. Talk about culture and religion all at the same place!

Due to its architectural and historical significance, Sri Mariamman Temple has been announced as a National Monument and is a major tourist attraction. Such a wonderful experience having the chance to visit a modern place yet somewhere down the core, constitutes culture and learning, even architecture. Definitely a fascinating spot, I said to my eyes, feast on it!