Sri Sakthi Vinayagar Temple, Brickfields (Kuala Lumpur)

Lord Karpaga Vinayagar is the main deity in this spiritual fortress. The other deities in the temple include Kaliambal, Balamurugan, Nagar, Agasthiyar and the Navagrahas. The statue of Karpaga Vinayagar in this temple is different from the customary thirty-six images of Vinayagar. Lord Ganesha is identified as ‘Karpaka Vinayagar’ here after the mythological tree named ‘karpakam’ that fulfills all the wishes of devotees. Also, when we worship Lord Karpaka Vinayagar, we are worshiping Lord Shiva as well. This is because Lord Karpaka Vinayagar holds a Shiva lingam in the right hand.

The statue of Karpaga Vinayagar was carved from a single granite block in Tamil Nadu, and was designed by the illustrious chief priest from Pillaiyarpatti temple, Sri Pitchai Gurukkal. It is said that Lord Karpaga Vinayagar meditates for the well being of his devotees hence their prayers are answered immediately. This concurs for the famous South Indian actor, Madhavan. He had made a vow at this temple, and his wishes were immediately granted. His domestic life was blessed with offspring, whilst his career life was boosted with the contract of playing lead roles in upcoming Tamil cinema. In appreciation, Madhavan decided he would contribute towards this temple. He donated towards the construction of this temple, as well as participated in a charity drive to raise funds for the temple. In addition, he took part in a golf tournament that rallied funds for this great temple.

The unique feature of this temple is the Tribandham Vinayagar. This wonderful statue of Lord Vinayagar is made from a combination of brown sugar, banana and cement. Besides that, the Vinayagar Chathurthi is celebrated on a grand scale at this holy site. To mark this auspicious event, two elephants are brought into the temple for a Gaja puja. The elephants are bathed, decorated and then circumbulate the vicinity. The elephants then ascend the stairs of the temple and bless the offerings of the puja.

Address: No.199, Jln Berhala, Brickfields, 50470 Kuala Lumpur. Tel: 03-22748624

Sri Krishna Alayam, Brickfields (Kuala Lumpur)

The spiritual edict to build a temple for Lord Krishna was honoured upon the pious Mr.Kanagasabai. In 1931, he dreamt of the beautiful blue skinned Lord Krishna, who kindly requested him to build a simple shrine for the benefit of Vaishnavite devotees. Thus, Mr.Kanagasabai bought a beautiful picture of Lord Krishna and set up a shrine near Jalan Bangsar. Many people who resided in close proximity started coming to this temple, as this was the only Lord Krishna temple in the vicinity.

As the shrine grew into a beautiful temple, the devotees started feeling the devotion of Lord Krishna. One particular devout lady was undergoing a traumatic experience in her life. Her marriage life was in turmoil, due to an adulterous husband. She resolved to fix her life by asking Lord Krishna to assist her. Eventually her husband left her, and she raised her three children by her own effort. She found solace in participating in temple functions, and ensured that her children joined in as well. Now her life is filled with joy, and her children have become successful in career. Also Lord Krishna is reputed in this temple to frequently bestow the gift of offspring. Many childless couples get their prayers answered at this holy place. Once they’re prayers are answered, the couples contribute towards the upkeep of the temple as a mark of appreciation.

Krishna Jeyanthi is celebrated on a grand scale at this place of worship. The whole temple becomes energetic with 13 days of festivities. On the very last day, Gokula Asthami is celebrated with much devotion. A holy cow is brought into the quarters of the temple for Komadha puja. This puja sanctifies the temple, as the cow is Lord Krishna’s favourite animal. Lastly, many dances are held to celebrate Lord Krishna’s birthday. Kola Attam (dancing with sticks) and Kumi Attam (dancing with clapping hands) are performed by devotees, for the pleasure of Lord Krishna and his consorts, Satyabhama and Rukmini.
Address: Section 72, Jln Berhala, Brickfields. Tel: 0322731686