Sri Anantha Vel Murugan Alayam, Jinjang (Kuala Lumpur)

As the Indian saying goes “Do not live in a place without a Hindu temple”, the basis for this temple was cemented. It was started in the 1950’s to accommodate the growing number of Hindu devotees in Jinjang. The temple started in a small wooden hut, but has transformed into a well-designed brick and mortar structure due to the efforts of Lord Muruga’s devotees. The present statues of the temple were sculptured in Madurai and special poojas were conducted to open the eyes of the deities. Prior to the order of the statues, the temple committee consulted a famous South Indian astrologer. The astrologer stated that the current location of the temple was previously a hill. This hill is believed to be the location where Lord Muruga had come to rest with his consorts, Valliamma and Deivanaiamma. Apparently Lord Muruga first came to Batu Caves, and then proceeded to the current location of this temple. As this was after the defeat of demon Surapadman at Thiruchendur, Lord Muruga resided here with his consorts in “Anantham” (peace).

Initially the temple committee wanted to have a statue of a 6 faced Lord Muruga. This was disapproved by the astrologer, stating it would harness the aggressive energy of Lord Muruga, which did not agree with the location. To test the accuracy of the astrologer, the temple priest decided to place a picture of a 6 faced Lord Muruga at the inner sanctum. After several days, the temple priest faced numerous obstacles in performing his daily poojas at the temple. The temple priest immediately removed the picture and peace was restored.

As the temple is in a neighbourhood, there are plenty of stray pets. Being animals, these pets search for accessible meals and sometimes rummage around the temple. As the milk offering to Nagamman was frequently defiled by these animals, this exasperated the temple priest. He loudly announced that he would no longer offer any milk to Goddess Nagamman as she was not there to receive the offering. After several days, the temple priest came across shed snake skin. It was extremely long, and puzzled the priest as there were no signs of snakes in that neighbourhood. He realised it was a sign by Goddess Nagamman to assure him of her presence, hence he continued with his offering of milk to Goddess Nagamman. Many devotees have stated that the presiding deity of this temple, Lord Muruga with his consorts radiate a beautiful persona. It is no wonder that devotees seeking his divine assistance get their prayers fulfilled as Lord Muruga is perpetually happy in this peaceful temple.

Address: 6 1/2 mile, Jln Kepong, Jinjang Utara, 52000 Kuala Lumpur. Tel: 0193984309 (Temple Priest)

Arulmigu Sree Veera Hanuman Temple, Brickfields (Kuala Lumpur)

This quaint temple has acquired a staunch following in recent years, due to the magical presence of Lord Hanuman. This temple originated from a shrine at the KL Sentral monorail station. The shrine had shifted to Scott Road in the last 10 years, due to construction of the rail station. As Lord Hanuman is energetic, hence it is only befitting that its current chairman is active and youthful. Mr. Suresh, who is the current chairman of the temple, has been instilling his creativity into the temple. The new ‘gopuram’ of the temple will be characterised by Lord Hanuman’s tail, making the temple distinctive in design.

In the tale of Ramayana, Lord Hanuman was sent as messenger to meet Ravana at Lanka. Upon arrival at Ravana’s palace, Lord Hanuman was refused a seat. Therefore Lord Hanuman used his tail as a chair, elevating himself higher than Ravana. Lord Ravana becomes enraged, and orders Lord Hanuman's execution. However, Ravana's brother intervenes; pointing out that it is was unethical to kill a messenger. Ravana then orders that Lord Hanuman's tail be lit instead. As Ravana's guards attempt to set ablaze his tail, Lord Hanuman escapes from his captors. Lord Hanuman with his tail on fire burns down most of Lanka.

Mr. Suresh was inspired to design the 'gopuram' after having a magnificent vision of Lord Hanuman. Lord Hanuman appeared before him in a warrior pose, with his tail held upright. Lord Hanuman’s armour had razor trimmings attached, indicating that Lord Hanuman was ready for battle. Lord Hanuman guards this vicinity with much courage, and will eliminate evil forces when necessary. Once, a Malay lorry driver passed through Scott Road at 2am. He was startled when he saw an apparition of an enormous monkey attired with warrior garments walking along Scott Road. This only confirms that Lord Hanuman is always on patrol in this vicinity. Many devotees who have been afflicted by black magic or evil spirits come to this temple for spiritual recovery. Also, many students come to this temple to have Lord Hanuman’s blessings before proceeding for an exam. The blessing will enhance their courage, and allow for a victorious examination.
Address: Lot P.T. 22 Jalan Scott Brickfield Kuala Lumpur

Raja Rajeswary Temple, Ampang (Kuala Lumpur)

This temple which resembles a palace is the spiritual abode of Goddess Raja Rajeswary. Raja Rajeswari is the presiding deity of Sri Yantra. Sri Yantra is a configuration of nine interlocking triangles. The five downward pointing triangles represent Shakti, and four upright triangles represent Shiva. Goddess Raja Rajeswari has four hands, three eyes and wields a noose, goad, sugar cane bow and five flowered arrows. The temple was established in 1974, and is the pride and the joy of its departed founder, Mr. K Suppiah. He had taken a considerable amount of his time, effort and creativity to develop this previous empty piece of land into a spiritual architectural delight. The temple is abundant with neem, bael, champa, and jamun trees. Also found are tulasi (holy basil), jasmine shrubs and sugar cane. The entrance of the temple is adorned with a water fountain, whilst the rear end of the temple has a spectacular water cascade. The temple has become a spiritual oasis for Hindu devotees of Klang Valley.

Due to his devotion to Goddess Raja Rajeswary, Mr. K Suppiah has been blessed with several visions of this Goddess. During the Mahakumbhabishegam, the committee members of the temple along with several priests went to the bank of Ampang river to collect soil. This religious ceremony is known as “Punitha Man Eduthal” translated as collecting of sacred soil. As they were departing back to the temple, Mr. K Suppiah noticed that Goddess Raja Rajeswary followed them after partaking in this religious ceremony. He was astounded by this beautiful vision of the sacred Goddess.

As the years passed, Mr. K Suppiah’s health deteriorated. A few months before his loss, he had another vision of Goddess Raja Rajeswary. He dreamt of the Goddess walking from the temple inner sanctum towards the entrance of the temple. At the entrance of the temple, the Goddess laughed joyously. She then proclaimed that she was contented with her palatial residence and thanked Mr. K Suppiah for his endeavour. Although Mr. K Suppiah has passed away, he has left an immense spiritual legacy that benefits the entire Hindu community of Malaysia.

Address: 4 1/2 mile, Jln Ulu Kelang, Ampang. Tel: 0342564059