Sanatana Dharam Sabha (Shiv Temple) – Taiping, Perak

The North Indians Hindus, despite being a relatively small community, are an integral part of the multi-racial population of Malaysia, which include the ethnic group of Gujaratis, Sindhis, Punjabi Hindus, Bengalees, Marathi and Uttar Pradeshis. These vibrant Hindu devotees who resided in the vicinity of Taiping, were primarily entrepreneurs, and desired their own temple to worship divinity as well for communal gathering. They had scouted for a suitable land to construct the temple, and soon found a parcel of land, which had a snake mound under a peepal tree. This signifies the existence of ‘nagas’ (holy snakes), natural guardians of Hindu temples, therefore apt for the flourishing practices of Hindu rites and ritual for the consecrated deity. In 1936, the temple was constructed for Lord Shiva, according the spiritual science of Hindu temple architecture, and has been gradually refurbished over the passage of time, reflecting the celestial sanctuary present today. The temple is renowned to confer boons to its devotees without hesitation, and protect its spiritual followers with awe inspiring ferocity. 

The distinct aspect of this temple incorporates elements of the North Indian ritual of temple worship, which allows Hindu devotees to participate in the ‘abisekham’ (pouring of holy libation) ceremony, usually exclusive for the temple priest. This spiritual ritual which bonds deity and devotee is observed during the monthly and yearly Shivratri, culminates into joyous fervour and strengthens the ideals of Hinduism. The only restriction is that devotees are not allowed to wear any leather apparel into the inner sanctum, to avoid the displeasure of Lord Nandi, the ‘vahana’ (deity’s mount) of Lord Shiva. This temple assimilates inspiration from the cosmic ‘panchabhuta’ (five elements), manifested as ‘prithvi’ (earth), ‘jal’ (water), ‘agni’ (fire), ‘vayu’ (air) and ‘akasha’ (ether), into the structure, design and layout of the temple. The ‘vimana’ (tower above the sanctum) has unobstructed exposure for ether, the 4 sides of the ‘mandapam’ (temple pavilion) open to indicate air, water unceasingly dripping on the ‘Shivling’ (mark of Lord Shiva), the temple built on earth and 4 ‘kuthuvilakku’ always lit around the inner sanctum to identify fire. There are 2 ‘Shivling’ in this temple; one is the auspicious Bana lingam, hailing from holy Narmada River, which has been consecrated at the inner sanctum. The other ‘Shivling’ was mystically discovered in a pond at Taiping’s picturesque Lake Garden, by a Hindu soldier in the late 1950’s. Many miracles have occurred at this temple, but the most palpable spiritual occurrence took place during the onset of the tin mining boom. The temple land was acquired by a tin mining company, and soon after the temple was requested to vacate. However as soon as the excavation machine came close to the temple courtyard, it broke down, and was beyond repair, thus the temple was left unperturbed. The auspicious days of Pradosham and monthly Shivratri are celebrated with much anticipation at this temple. Pious devotees seeking the blessings of Lord Nandi, can sometimes hear grunting and heavy breathing, perceived to be the presence of Lord Shiva’s ‘vahana’, ethereally manifesting to counsel and bless Lord Shiva’s followers. Many devotees dreamt of Lord Nandi blessing them with peace and prosperity, especially after attending temple festivals or holy fasts.

The virtuous devotees of this temple vehemently declare that the presence of Lord Shiva is resolute here as many people have heard the ‘damaru’ (musical instrument) sound whilst meditating at this temple. The sound from the ‘’damaru’ represents the cosmic heartbeat of the universe, hence construed as Lord Shiva’s vibrational ‘shakti’ (divine energy) has been embedded on this sanctified area. The presence of the enchanting ‘naga’ as the anointed guardian is one of the mystical feature of this temple. Many devotees have dreamt of a ‘naga’ coiled around the ‘Shivling’ in the inner sanctum, signifying its presence as the divine custodian for this temple. Another charming characteristic of this temple, whereby pleasingly involving rituals for Lord Shiva to rest in solitude. After concluding hymns for Lord Shiva to sleep, a miniature bed, along with pillow, bed sheet, wooden slipper and walking stick is positioned suitably at the inner sanctum, just before the inner sanctum doors are secured for the night. These rituals are considered an affectionate custom that signifies adoration for the deity, Lord Shiva.

Address: Lot 1948, Jalan Medan Taiping 7, Taman Medan Taiping, Taiping.

Email: sdstaiping@gmail.com

 

 

Arulmigu Sannasimalai Andavar Temple – Cheng, Malacca

This harmoniously divine temple has its origins intricately belonging to a mysterious ‘jeeva samadhi’ (spiritual tomb) of an unknown Hindu saint from India.  Upon entering the premise of the temple, you will feel the spiritual energy reverberating from the ‘jeeva samadhi’ wafting fragrantly throughout this holy place, as though allowing devotees to breathe gallons of ‘moksha’ (self-realisation of the soul). This saint is thought to have come from India, and had settled in this part of Malacca, almost 120 years ago. According to the historical archives of the temple, the saint practised a daily worship of a Shiva Lingam, and meditated on a nearby hill, hence the origin of the temple’s name, which translates as the saint’s hill. As ‘abisekham’ (pouring of libations) for the Shiva Lingam, the saint had daily obtained fresh milk from a cowherd. Strangely one day, a cow and calf appeared at the saint’s premise, and thereafter provided the essential milk for the ‘abisekham’. Although the cow and its calf have long passed away, a sculpture in remembrance of these divine creatures has been enshrined in the temple.

As the saint was knowledgeable and skilled in herbal medicine, he was always sought by people of the surrounding areas, to cure ailments that modern medicine could not remedy. Amongst his devotees, was an Indian of ‘Nattukotai Chettiar’ ancestry, who tended to the needs of the holy saint. This man donated the land whereby the temple sits currently, and was also responsible for establishing the ‘jeeva samadhi’ for the saint. Before attaining ‘jeeva samadhi’ the saint handed over the Shiva Lingam to the Indian man, and ordained him to perform the necessary spiritual rites for the Shiva Lingam. Soon the Indian man established a temple for the Shiva Lingam, but consecrated the temple as a Lord Muruga temple, hence invoking the grace of Lord Shiva’s holy son, Lord Muruga. Many devotees have witnessed a vision of a golden hued, youthful Lord Muruga, smiling dazzlingly from the inner sanctum of the temple, beckoning devotees to receive his vibrant ‘darshan’ (spiritual grace). The blessings of Lord Muruga are apparent here, with the sudden appearance of a peacock, which is known to be Lord Muruga’s vehicle. The temple authorities contacted the Malacca zoo, inquiring is there was a missing peacock, but the zoo management indicated otherwise. The sudden appearance of the peacock at the temple, without anyone in sight, has prompted many devotees to belief that this is a divine blessing from Lord Muruga.

During Masi Magam festival, Hindu devotees from all over Malaysia will make a pilgrimage to the Sannasimalai Andavar Temple. The two-day festival will begin with the journey of a silver chariot bearing a statue of Lord Murugan adorned with flowers, fruits, and adornment. The spiritual journey will start from Malacca’s oldest Hindu temple, Sri Poyyatha Vinayagar Moorthi Temple. The 8km journey to Cheng, will be trailed behind by frenzied barefoot devotees, some breaking coconuts, others carrying ‘pal kudam’ (milk container) on their heads as a sign of gratitude. Most of these devotees are completing a vow made to Lord Murugan, requesting his spiritual blessings for achieving good wealth, health and happiness.

Panching Sivan Temple (Charas Cave) – Kuantan, Pahang

Established majestically to tower its surrounding is the pristine Charas cave, the abode of an immensely mystical Sivalingam. Ascending the steel stairs, as though soaring towards Kailasam, Saivite devotees will bask in the splendor of Panching Sivan temple.  Lord Shiva, the dweller of Saivite hearts, resides in this mystical setting, encouraging devotees to rise into the realms of spirituality. The Sivalingam was brought to the cave in 1989 by Nachitram, a lawyer from Negeri Sembilan. At that time, the lawyer had visited Charas Cave, to a Buddhist Temple which was built nearly a hundred years ago. During his visit there, he met with a ‘Siddhar’ (Indian Sage) in the cave, who advised him to bring a Sivalingam and install in the cave. He had forgotten this spiritual instruction, but was gently reminded by a close associate. He immediately flew to India to purchase the black marble Sivalingam, and got it shipped to Malaysia. Upon returning it to Panching, he was informed by the Buddhist temple that there was never a presence of an Indian man in the caves.

It is believed is that there are several Indian sages who meditate in the cave, but are concealed to the public, however manifest occasionally to dispense spiritual guidance. Dr.Sethugavalar, the temple President, together with other noble Hindus arranged workers to haul the 9 feet tall Sivalingam to the entrance of the cave, an astonishing 150 feet up. From there, the Sivalingam had to be gradually rolled into the cave for distance of another 100 meters for installation, and was placed facing north. The temple committee sought the assistance of a leading temple builder in the country, Sthapati Thannirmalai. The sthapati came to the temple and advised the temple committee that the position of the Sivalingam is currently facing north, but would be more auspicious if facing east. He also mentioned that there should be a Bramapaham for the Shivalingam. After carrying out the sthapati’s instructions, the temple committee arranged a Maha Kumbabhishegam on 8th June 2008 with the participation of 2,000 devotees.

Ir.A.Sivabalan, a contractor by profession and also an expert numerologist, had been giving advice on numerology, changing the karmic patterns of many people. Due to this, he accumulated some of the karmic vibrations of other individuals, and was advised to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. Twice he had tried to enter Lord Shiva’s temple, but was unsuccessful, obstructed by heavy karmic hindrances. Then, the mystical Lord Shiva from Panching temple appeared in a vision to Ir.A.Sivabalan. In this revelation, he saw a dazzling Sivalingam up in cave on a hill nearby Kuantan. He inquired from his friends on the whereabouts of a Shiva Temple in cave near Kuantan. He was informed there was a temple in a hill cave in Panching, which is in close proximity to Kuantan. Ir.A.Sivabalan immediately visited Panching cave. Upon arriving he knew this was the location he witnessed in his vision a few months ago. With an enormous spiritual resolve, Ir.A.Sivabalan brought his workers to Charas cave in to renovate the Shiva Temple including erecting a steel staircase structure leading up to the entrance of the cave.

Many devotees have witnessed ‘Shweta Nag’ (white cobra) around the vicinity of this temple, and even on top of the Shivalingam. ‘Shweta Nag’ are supposed to be great devotees of Lord Shiva. This holy cave has a number of natural images, including a five faced ‘naga' (holy snake) on the roof of the cave, with water trickling from its mouth, dripping continuously onto the holy Shivalingam. Also evident is a formation of Lord Ganesha. At present the temple has daily poojas and is open daily from 9.00am to 5.00pm. Celebrated grandly are the twice a month Pradosha fast, and the yearly Maha Shivaratri.

Directions: East coast highway Kuala Lumpur / Kuatan, exit at Kuatan/Inderah Mahkota, pay the toll, at the traffic light turn right and drive 14 kilometer, sign board displaying Gua Charas, will lead to a cave for the Sivan temple.

Contact: 013 9387541 Mr.K.Balakrishnan (temple  secretary)

Sri Poyyatha Vinayagar Moorthi Temple, Malacca

 
The Chettiar community from South India were profoundly involved in the construction of Hindu temples, especially dedicated to their loving Vinayagar. As mercantile tradesmen, they travelled the world, but also brought along their worship of Lord Vinayagar to Malacca. Located at Jalan Tukang Emas, Sri Poyyatha Vinayagar Moorthi Temple is the oldest Hindu temple in Malaysia, built in 1781. This street is called Harmony Street because of the close proximity of holy sanctuaries of different religions in this area. The sanctuaries here are the Cheng Hoon Teng Temple, the Kampung Kling’s Mosque and the Sri Poyyatha Vinayagar Moorthi Temple. The temple was built a land donated by Kapitan Thaivanayagam Chitty, a distinguished Indian resident residing in Malacca. As many Hindu ancestors from Malacca had a close association with this temple, that bond has been reinforced over time, creating a strong connection with the Hindu families residing in Malacca.
 

The word Poyyatha is affixed to the name of the temple as it is believed Lord Vinayagar blesses all devotees with sincerity, which can be interpreted to be as receiving divine blessing wholeheartedly without any compromise. Hence all devotees who come here will get their wishes fulfilled. Many devotees have dreamt of Lord Vinayagar blessing their ailments to be cured, by merely applying ‘vibuthi’ (holy ash) on their forehead. Once, a pious devotee was in hospital, had a vision of Lord Vinayagar reassuring him that he would soon recover, and requested him to perform ‘archanai’ (prayer) at the temple after he recovers from the ailment. The devotee soon recovered, and immediately performed the prayer at this temple. Many soon to wedded couples come here to obtain the blessings of Lord Vinayagar prior to their marriage. The conviction is that Lord Vinayagar will bless their marriage ceremony to be without obstacles, and to ensure a blissful and joyful conjugal marital life.

 

Sri Poyyatha Vinayagar Moorthi Temple is the main focal point for the Hindu community in Malacca as it links with all the other Hindu temples in Melaka. Most festive temple processions are initiated in the Sri Poyyatha Vinayagar Moorthi temple before proceeding back to their own temple. Some of the notable festivals celebrated here is the Datuk Chachar Festival and Masi Magam. The Dutch influence in the architecture of the temple is remarkable, as it distinguishes the structural design of this temple with other South Indian Hindu temples. This is evident in the details of the entrance, walls, columns, vaulted domes and the roof of the temple. Most South Indian temples have sculptures of deities, sages, angels on the ‘gopuram’ (monumental tower). Instead in this temple, the ‘gopuram’ is a three-leveled tower with blue molded edges and arch niches with relief images. In addition, each of the columns of this peak tower has a triangular hole-accent at its center as with the perpendicular base where a line of triangles run horizontally. Sculptures of sacred cows adorn the fenced rooftop of the temple, signifying blessings of wealth and happiness.

Address: 25, Jalan Tokong 5, 75200 Malacca. Phone: 06-2829343/06-2883599

Sri Veeramuthu Mahakali (Kungumangi) – Ipoh, Perak

This tranquil abode of worship is pulsating with divine Goddess energy, sanctifying every nook, cranny and corner. The moment you’ve set foot in this temple, the imprint of spiritual exuberance will alter your life eternally. The sight of holy trisulam, the smell of lime, kungkumam, neem, the chanting of Vedic Sakthi mantras, the feast of ‘prasadam’ (offerings of food), and the spiritual vibration that tingles your skin, stimulates the five senses into spiritual serenity. The temple itself had its origins steeped in mysticism, enshrined as single trisulam under neem tree, deep inside the bushes of Kampung Chekadi, Ipoh. In this temple, the conviction of the Hindu worshippers of Divine Goddess has never been in vain, as she constantly nurtures each devotee with spiritual sustenance and divine love.

Many devotees have had the divine opportunity of witnessing Mahakali, as a beautiful lady, draped in a bright, yellow sari, having a turmeric complexion and adorned with gold jewellery, and having a big, red, ‘pottu’ (dot on forehead). There have been many miracles in this temple, one which involves ‘kungumam’ (red turmeric powder), which has given this temple the title “Kungumangi”.  On 25^th of July 1980, the first Mullaipaligai festival was celebrated. This festival comprises of placing 9 assorted beans into an earthen pot for 9 days, and carrying the pot to a nearby river, and back to the temple. At the height of the ritual, ‘kungkumam’ started emitting from the Goddess’s forehead, sprinkling all over the Goddess’s statue and the Mullaipaligai pots.  This incident which was recorded in the history of the temple brought throngs of Hindu devotees from all over Malaysia to this temple, all eager to see this spiritual phenomenon. Another remarkable tale which is the talk of this temple, is whereby a non-Hindu who when happened to pass the temple, tore the decorations and religious banners that were hanging outside the temple. She immediately felt someone slapping her, and upon returning to her residence, discovered to her exasperation, that her vision became blurry. She sought the help of many hospitals, and medical doctors, but to no avail. She then requested the advice of a ‘bomoh’ (shaman), who then informed her that she had violated the protocol of spirituality, and earned the wrath of a Hindu Goddess. In sheer desperation, this lady returned to this temple, and begged for forgiveness. Due to the kindness of the Goddess, the lady soon recovered from her ailment, and she became a staunch devotee of Goddess Kaliamman. 

The trisulam of this holy abode is renowned for countering the negative elements, such as witchcraft, black magic, evil spells and disturbances of spirits. Devotees seeking help, will place 3 limes on the jagged edge of the trisulam, and pray for the blessing of Chandi Devi. Another major event of this temple was in 1986, when the Sri Nava Chandi Homam was conducted in this temple. The Homam itself was prompted by the Goddess, when she appeared in the vision of 3 temple committee member, instructing each one to pour ‘ghee’ (clarified butter), spiritual offerings and a ‘sari’ (silk cloth) into a fiery pit. The Homam was conducted by 9 priests, and celebrated very grandly. An elephant was brought for the ‘Gaja puja’ (worship of elephants), a cow for ‘Go puja’ (worship of cows), a horse for ‘Asva puja’ (worship of horses), and finally 108 ‘sumangali puja’ (prayers done to invoke the blessings of married women who have lived long and enjoyed a prosperous family life).

Address: P.O.Box 490, Kg Chekadi, Buntong, 30100 Ipoh.  Phone:05-2548469

Petaling Estate Sri Maha Mariamman Alayam (Old Klang Road), Kuala Lumpur

Mariamman is an ancient goddess, who is generally portrayed in a sitting position, her upper right hand carrying a ‘damaru’ (hourglass shaped drum), ‘trisulam’ (trident) in her upper left hand, a long sword in her lower right and a kapala (bowl) in her lower left. A five-headed cobra rises above her crown, indicating that she is the queen of snakes.  One of her hands usually displays an ‘abhaya mudra’, to ward off fear.  The Petaling Estate Amman temple had humble beginnings, but now is a resplendent, spiritual fortress for the Hindus of this vicinity.  It was built by a British company, (Harrison & Crossfield), in the early 1890’s, for the welfare of its significant Hindu workforce.

As soon as you step foot into this spiritual stronghold, you are transported, body and soul, into a different dimension that pulsates with soothing spiritual vibrations. The presence of the Goddess is greatly felt, as she takes a personal note on the well-being of her devotees, ensuring that every plea, petition or prayer, no matter how trivial or complicated, is attended to by herself and her troop of ‘devas’ (spiritual beings). It is no wonder why her ‘shakti’ (divine energy) is so greatly felt, as this temple often conducts ‘Homa’ (fire ceremony), which include ‘Chandi Homa’, Pratyangira Homa, Gayathri Homa. In addition, every Pournami and Amavasai, a Navavarna puja is conducted. This puja is closely associated with Goddess Mariamman, as it includes offerings of 9 types of salutation, 9 types of flower , 9 types of ‘abisekam’ (oblation), 9 types of prasadam (food offering). Temple devotees have had many visions of the Goddess, in dispensing advice and instructions. During the temple renovation, the temple committee chairman and his members had visions of the Goddess instructing them on the intricate details of the temple restoration work, which include ‘Ranjhita Bandhanam’ (metal strip around deity pedestal), which employs silver. Goddess Mariamman, also known to ward of diseases, has cured the illness of her staunch devotees. One such devotee, whose infant daughter had contracted a high fever, and was not cured by conventional medicine, immediately sought refuge in Goddess Mariamman.  Soon after, the devotee dreamt of an old man coming out from the temple’s inner sanctum and applying ‘vibhuti’ (holy ash) on her daughter. The daughter soon recovered, and both pray ardently to Goddess Mariamman, in dedication and gratitude.

This temple is distinct as it has ornately, hand carved granite statues of Navagraha deities, including Surya Bhagavan riding in his chariot, and his 2 consorts. The deities were donated by the late Tun Sambanthan, and are more than 60 years old. In addition, there are two very large ‘trisulam’ (trident) at the entrance of temple, striking as an abode of ‘shakti’ (divine energy). The Maha Meru yantra which has been consecrated in the inner sanctum, has been forged by ‘aimpon’ (5 metals), and coated with gold. The late Sambamoorthy Sivachariar from India, when he visited the temple, commented that the presence of the Goddess is greatly potent, however should be harmoniously maintained, thru a Maha Meru yantra. The elaborately engraved silver chariot is a sight to behold, made from 170 kilograms of silver, and depicts impressions of articles of the Goddess Mariamman. Another interesting detail of this temple is the 8 ‘bali peedam’s’ (sacrificial alter) around the temple, which is not common in Malaysia. Throughout the temple are lavishly carved granite pieces, and beautiful brass ornaments, especially at the entrance and the inner sanctum, which have given a spiritual serenity and radiant glow to this temple.
Address: No.5, Jln Station (Kg.Pasir Baru), Batu 5 ¾, Jln Klang Lama, Kuala Lumpur. Tel: 03-77818106