Sri Subramaniar Devasthanam, Pandamaran, Klang (Selangor)

 

Jai Vinayagar, those who seek refuge in the glorious feet of Vinayagar will undoubtedly be victorious. On a gloomy afternoon in March 2008, a crew of menacing construction workers had come to demolish the entrance gate of Sri Subramanyar Temple located at Pandamaran, Klang. The workers were ordered by an insolent business owner to claim back the entrance area of the temple, as he was disputing the ownership of the land. The workers did a preliminary survey to start their work the following day. The leader of the crew took some pictures as part of the survey. To their shock, a colossal Vinayagar appeared in the photos, stretching from the ground to the sky. Vinayagar had emerged from the astral dimension, to warn whomever threatens the temple as well to ward off impending danger to the sacred location. The workers were visibly shaken and refused to implement the demolishment. Thereafter, the business owner decided to end his enmity with the temple and did not proceed further with the plan to demolish the temple entrance. 

The golden 'Vel' (Spiritual Spear) shatters our shackles of ignorance, and the 'asuric' (demonic) bonds that lead us astray are dispelled by waves of spiritual illumination emitting from the sacred 'Vel'. A huge 'Vel' situated at the rear end of the temple signifies this aspect. The temple was collectively started by plantation workers from the Golden Hope Plantation during the British occupation of Malaya. Despite their meagre income, they built a spiritual abode with brick and mortar, so that the temple would become a legacy for their children. The spiritual pride of the temple is imbued within the statues of Vinayagar, Subramanyar and Mariamman that were formerly kept at the main sanctum. These aged statues are now safely kept at the back end of the temple. Before returning home, many devotees pay their respect to these deities.

This temple was originally designed as temple for Mariamman, however was changed to become a Subramanyar temple at the very last minute. This subtle exchange was transpired in the heavenly realms, to flourish the essence of 'Kaumara' (worship of Subramanyar) vibrancy within the vicinity of Pandamaran, Klang. Nonetheless, Mariamman is ethereally present within this temple. During restoration works at the temple, a construction worker was involved in the reinforcement work for cement columns. The sluggish worker hastily did this work as he was not interested in the job requirement. That very night, goddess Mariamman came in his dream and sternly reprimanded his lethargic behaviour. The very next day the worker sought forgiveness from Mariamman. Thereafter, he improved his attitude and performed his work diligently at the temple. 

There are many miracles that occur continuously at this temple. An individual who is of an Abrahamic faith was found lingering around the temple entrance. When the temple authorities suspected he might be up to mischief, he was promptly questioned. To their astonishment, the individual requested if a prayer could be supplicated on his behalf. He and wife who were happily married for many years were suddenly estranged due to domestic squabbles. He was on the verge of despair, when he decided to consult a spiritual healer. He was then advised to come to this particular temple, and request for assistance. Unsure of what to do, he came to the temple drenched in melancholy. A priest was informed of the situation, and was requested to perform a 'puja' (worship) and the temple sanctum. Upon completion of the 'puja', the individual was given 'vibhuti' (holy ash) and 'tirtham' (holy water). He looked relieved after the completion of the 'puja', and went back contentedly. Within a few day, his wife returned home and the both of them lived happily thereafter. 

A lady devotee who had an acute kidney failure, was given a few days to live by her attending doctor. This fatal news gravely affected the lady and her husband, and they started sobbing in despair. The husband rushed to the temple and pleaded with his beloved Subrahmanyar to spare the life of his wife for the sake of his children. He got down on his knees and wept in front of the inner sanctum. He would not get up until he received an indication that his plea would not go in vain. Suddenly some flowers fell on to the deity's pedestal, an assurance from Subramanyar that the devotee's plea was received graciously and bestowed with blessings. Sure enough his wife recovered and lived for many years until their children grew up. 

A young couple originating from the United States were without offspring. They attempted all scientific procedures to have children, however it was futile. With a dismal heart, they narrated their unfortunate predicament to their Malaysian relatives. Their relatives immediately brought them to this temple and requested the couple to seek blessings from our tender hearted Subramanyar. After returning back to the United States, the couple were soon blessed with children. They were overjoyed with delight, after suffering many depressing years of infertility. As a sign of gratitude, the couple contributed towards the 'maha kumbhabhishekam' (consecration ceremony) of the temple. 

On a different incident, a lady devotee experiencing marital discord in her life decided to end her life abruptly. She attempted to commit suicide on a road collision, ploughing her vehicle into a large lorry. Although her vehicle was totally destroyed, she managed to survive. In state of dizziness, she noticed a young boy holding her hands and leading her out of the car. Still groggy, she was led by the young boy in a loincloth into a nearby temple. The young boy was encouraging her every step of the way. The young boy then told her that she has a reason to live, and that her problems would soon dissipate. When she started gaining back her senses, the boy abruptly disappeared. She then realised the young boy in a loincloth was none other than the ever compassionate Subramanyar. Thereafter, she decided to dedicate her life to benefit the downtrodden of society. Her mental health improved considerably, and she found new meaning that rejuvenated her mind and soul.  

Pradosham puja is conducted with much devotion at this temple. After the 'puja' is completed, a pious devotee who constantly performs pilgrimage to Mount Kailash serves an unique 'prasadam'. This 'prasadam' consists of holy water from Lake Manasarovar and soil from Mount Kailash. This 'prasadam' is brimming with celestial 'shakti' (energy), and possesses abundant blessings from the heavenly realms. Many childless couples who have partaken this 'prasadam' have been blessed with offspring. Devotees facing constant financial difficulties and employment uncertainties find a permanent solution. 

The temple's water tank is another focal point in the temple. A devotee had a vision of herself partially immersed in the sacred water tank, her hands held above her head in unison to receive cosmic blessings from a golden hued Shiva Lingam. The temple's water tank is significant during prayers for departed ancestors. Upon completion of the prayers, participating devotees dip in the water tank and pray for the salvation of their departed ancestors. The arduous journey of the soul upon death is definitely alleviated by this prayer. 

An unique aspect of this temple is the heroic statue of Muneeswaran galloping on his horse, guarding the vicinity of the temple with fearless bravery. This statue is at the entrance of the temple, hence all devotees pay obeisance to Muneeswaran before entering the temple. A factory worker was riding his motorcycle back home after a laborious day at work. His motorcycle suddenly stopped in front of the temple. He decided to light a cigarette and ponder on what to do next. As soon as he lit a cigarette, he started hearing the neighing of a horse. As he turned his head, he glanced at a magnificent white horse galloping swiftly and fading instantly into the Muneeswaran statue. The factory worker frantically jumped on his motorcycle, and sped home. At home, he fearfully narrated the incident to his wife. His wife decided to come the next day to the Muneeswaran shrine with offerings of fruits and flowers, and request forgiveness on behalf of her husband. She went back home fully aware that her genuine plea would pacify the merciful Muneeswaran. Glory to our heroic deity on a horse. 

Contact: 016 5303230   Address: Lot PT 127752, Jln Pandamaran, Klang, Selangor.                                 

Sri Renganathar Temple, Kajang (Selangor)

On a dewy ethereal dawn in the spiritual Tamil month of Margazhi, an annual festival known as Vaikuntha Ekadasi occurs. Hundreds of unmarried girls march devotionally towards their beloved Sri Renganathar, who is reclined peacefully in a spiritual slumber. The enchanting girls are in attire resembling Goddess Andal, hence their hair is tied in a bun to the side, adorned with jasmine flowers and elaborate jewellery. They have to get past the gatekeeper who is guarding the heavenly 'Vaikuntha' (celestial abode of Lord Vishnu). A discussion ensues, and the essence of Tiruppavai (Tamil hymns by Andal) 16th verse is used as conversation between the gatekeeper and the girls. Upon the conclusion of the holy conversation, the dazzling girls dash into the temple. They carry a heavenly 'thulasi' (holy basil) garland around the temple and enter the sacred 'Swarga Vaasal' (Heaven's Gate). These unmarried girls chant the mantra “AUM NAMO NARAYANAYA". This mantra reverberates with much passion and devotion, filling every nook and cranny of temple with abundant love. The resonating love creates a vibration that harmonises the emotions of the attending devotees, and ultimately pleasing Sri Renganathar. This custom is uniquely inherent in this charming temple, as 'bhakti' (devotion) worship is predominant here. 

This petite yet elegant temple has a wide following of dedicated devotees. It was built in 1964 by JKR (Public Works Department) workers. The workers who were 'Vaishnava' (worship of Lord Vishnu) devotees were looking for a location to initiate the worship of Sri Renganathar, to flourish 'Vaishnava' devotion. They found a suitable location within a small forest, whereby in the middle of a thicket, there were trees that took the shape of a 'naamam' (sign on forehead to represent Vaishnavism). The workers promptly chose this location to build a shrine for Sri Renganathar. A divine picture of Sri Renganathar from India was installed at the shrine, and 'Vaishnavism' bloomed sacredly. 

The temple follows the Pancharatra agamic method of serving Lord Renganathar, and his consort Goddess Renganayagi. The temple has a powerful and dominant Anjeneyar and Garuda at the entrance. The two guardians welcome devotees, and protect the vicinity of the temple. The unique reclining position of Sri Renganathar is representative of the deity at the Sri Rangam temple, Tamil Nadu. Sri Renganathar is seated on Adishesha, a five headed serpent who is the king of serpents. There is an awe-inspiring statue of Narasimha slaying the wicked Hiranyakashipu, which is very distinctive to this temple. Many devotees pray to Narasimha to eradicate the ill-effects of black magic and torment from evil spirits. An effortless plea to Narasimha by lighting a ghee vilakku eradicates many difficulties, whereas some devotees perform a Narasimha homam to obtain an enduring solution.

A magnificent 4 feet Yoga Anjaneyar was installed at the back of the temple in a meditation room. This manifestation of Anjaneyar appeared in a dream to chief priest, Sri Ramanujam. Yoga Anjaneyar has his eyes wide open and his fingers are positioned in 'chin mudra' (type of finger lock for meditation). When the tips of the thumb and the index finger are pressed together, this creates the chin mudra. The nerve root ending of the fingers emit energy continuously. This energy can be transmitted back into the body with the practice of chin mudra. The index finger touching the thumb creates a circuit to channel this energy back up to the brain, and ultimately the pituitary gland. Additionally, the room has a display of colourful pictures of the epic Ramayana. The room is ideal for serene meditation, whereas children can appreciate the divine messages from the epic Ramayana. 

The chief priest of this temple, Sri Ramanuja regularly expounds quotes from the Ramayana and Mahabharatham to temple devotees. Also he involves devotees in temple ceremonies and prayers, and educates them in the importance of devotion and faith. During other spiritual occasions such as Krishna Jayanti, it is very festive at the temple. Male devotees participate in a known as 'uriyadi' whereby they have to break a suspended clay pot using a long stick. Participants are blindfolded making the game very jovial and fascinating. Female devotees participate in a 'kummi' dance performance which is very entertaining. After the games, the chief priest Ramanuja would tell stories about Lord Krishna and his playful antics towards his devotees. Upon concluding the puja, he would then instruct the devotees to chant Lord Krishna’s Mahamantra. After this was done, a fabulous blue icing cake would be served to Lord Krishna as 'naivedya' (food offering to deities). 

An unique aspect of this temple is the consecration of the Nava Hanuman that resembles the Navagraha's (9 celestial bodies). A devotee that circumambulates the 'Nava Hanuman' attains much spiritual solace. Another mystical aspect of this temple is when devotees seeking clarification on a doubt request chief priest Sri Ramanujam to ascertain the facial expression of Sri Renganathar. If Sri Renganathar is frowning, this signifies failure or denying the devotee's request. Whereas if Sri Renganathar is joyous, it denotes a divine affirmative to the devotee's plea. In conclusion, the devotees at this temple have much pride in their temple as most sacred occasions have an active spiritual participation. Many devotees feel blessed as they are involved in the spiritual ceremonies, and not side-lined by religious orthodoxy. 

Address: Km 7, Jln Kajang Puchong, 43000 Kajang. Tel: 03 87680846/019-3052461

Arulmigu Thirumurugan Temple - Mambau, Seremban (Negeri Sembilan)

Our ancestors revealed that once a deity chooses a terrestrial abode on 'Bhuloka' (earth realm), the task to undertake this divine responsibility is conferred upon the shoulders of a chosen ‘thondar’ (volunteer) who qualifies due to their spiritual service. The ‘thondar’ might have an inkling of the task ahead, perhaps illuminated by an auspicious dream or an instruction from a spiritual guru. Our beloved Murugan had chosen Nadeson, a Kaumara devotee to initiate this temple by installing a Murugan statue at an appropriate date with the assistance of the local community. 

This sacred act infused Kaumara worship into the nearby Hindu neighbourhoods, who began fervently praying to Murugan. Festivals such as Thaipoosam and Kanda Sashti viratham enchanted countless devotees to start praying devotedly to Muruga. Devotees placed their anxieties, worries and concerns at the feet of their beloved Muruga, known as ‘vendukol’. Amidst the cries of ecstasy of devotees chanting ‘Vetri Vel Muruganukku Arohara’, the cherished deity Murugan carefully examines all petitions from his devotees, and ensures abundance of blessings through his ‘Vetri Vel’ (victorious spear). All unpleasantness in life is soon resolved, and karmic woes are untangled.

 

There are many cherished stories that are retold with reverence amongst the local Hindu community of Mambau with regard to Thirumurugan temple. During the 2^nd ‘Maha Kumbhabisegham’ (consecration ceremony) of the temple, a pious devotee was involved in the pouring of sanctified waters from a vessel. He was on top of the temple roof, and held a vessel to be poured onto the ‘kovil kalasam’ (inverted metal alloy pot on temple’s rooftop). He inadvertently slipped and was sure to perish. He shouted ‘Muruga, Muruga, save me’. A dazzling figure rescued the assistant priest by firmly holding him at that position. The assistant priest sighed a breath of relief and looked around to thank his saviour, but there was no one next to him. The assistant priest looked up towards the heavenly sky, and offered his humble gratitude for being rescued from an untimely death.

 

The temple finalizes the concluding prayers at 9pm, hence there is not many individuals in the surrounding area thereafter. There are nearby food stalls adjacent to the temple, catering to the needs of devotees that frequent the temple. A particular food stall was closing later than usual. The stall owner was marvelling at the beauty of the ethereal sky, as it was an auspicious ‘Pournami’ (full moon). The sky was lit up by the cool gaze of an iridescent moon, and the stars were sparkling with splendour. The stall owner overheard footsteps coming from the opposite side of the stall. He was about to inform that the stall was shut, when he noticed a spectacular event. He was stunned to have witnessed an exuberant looking youth with a radiating face, decked in gold jewellery and a flower garland, and adorned with a glittering crown. He stood there momentarily shocked at this unusual occurrence. The splendid youth smiled at him and then disappeared. The stall owner hastily rushed to that spot but the youth was nowhere to be found. He could only smell wafts of an exquisite sandalwood fragrance. He then consulted a spiritual master on that occurrence, and was informed that a Hindu deity was observing the encompassing area, and he was fortunate to have witnessed the astounding event.  

 

A well-wisher of the temple happened to pass along the temple on his motorbike. Unfortunately, the motorbike ran out of fuel and stopped directly in front of the temple. As he did carry his wallet at that time, he was wondering on how to resolve the situation. Abruptly a RM10 note blew to his feet out of nowhere, beckoning to be picked up. He picked up the RM10 note and proceeded to purchase fuel from a nearby petrol kiosk. Subsequently he fuelled his motorbike and silently thanked Murugan’s divine assistance during a calamity. Although the well-wisher is from an Abrahamic faith, his heart was captivated by Murugan after the amazing incident. 

 

Another interesting feature of this temple is the ‘naga puthu’ (snake mound) situated at the rear back entrance of the temple. ‘Naga’ (divine snakes) worship is predominant at this temple, and it is customary to offer milk and eggs as a token of gratitude. Furthermore the ‘naga’s are fiercely territorial and guard the boundaries of the temple with utmost dedication. When the temple management had requested a ‘prasanam’ from a famed astrologer with regard to the temple, the astrologer pointed out this fact and also informed the exact location of the ‘naga puthu’. The structure of the temple in its contemporary appearance was given in a vision to Ramayah, another ‘thondar’ of the temple. Murugan had given a detailed design on the precise architecture of the temple, which was then transformed into reality by Ramayah and his band of fellow Kaumara ‘bhakta’ (devotee). Rest assured, Murugan will take care of the temple and its devotees in years to come. 

Contact: 012-6021696 (Ramayah), 012-3601632 (Rajamanickam)

Address: KM6, Jln Port Dickson, Mambau, 70300 Seremban