Sunday, September 13, 2009

Maha Mariamman Alayam, Shah Alam (Selangor)

This powerful site of devotion is said to be over 150 years old built by Indian plantation workers of Sungai Renggam estate. Adding to the authenticity of this site is the existing cement statues of the deities, which is still used for worship. The deities emit an energetic vibration, due to the constant worship by its dedicated devotees. The deity’s presence is manifested by the vibrant decoration of its staunch priest. The devotees of the temple speak highly of the goddess Mariamman, who protects her staunch devotees wholeheartedly.


The oldest devotee of the temple started attending prayers at this place of worship from the age of 7 years. At that age, she had chicken pox, and pleaded with goddess Mariamman for a swift recovery. The benevolent goddess Mariamman came in her dreams in a prominent red sari and held a ‘trishulam’, told her she would recover within 3 days. Soon after she recovered, this 72 year old lady has been coming to this temple every Tuesday and Friday until today. Devotees also have stated the goddess Mariamman stands guard at their house, protecting against evil. A thief attempting to break into a devotee’s house was astounded to find a radiant lady in a shining red sari, aiming a ‘trishulam’ high above. The thief ran for his life and managed to get away, but not without punishment. He legs and arms became paralysed, due to his evil intentions. He was advised to beg forgiveness from the merciful goddess Mariamman. With much difficulty, the thief came to the temple and begged for forgiveness and soon recovered from his ailment.

The uniqueness of this temple is the presence of Ganga Amman, who is rarely found in Hindu temples of Malaysia. Goddess Gangga Amman is originating from the holy Ganges River. Interestingly, the sanctum sanctorum for Gangga Amman is always flowing with water, thereby denoting her ‘sakthi’.

Address: Jln 19/25, Section 19, 40000 Shah Alam. Tel: 012-2879970 (Selvakumaran)