Sri Mariamman Temple, Singapore

Main Deity : Mariamman aka Sinna Amman (small representation of Mariamman )

History

Sri Mariamman Temple aka as King Street Temple is the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore.

Originally erected by Naraina Pillai during the British ruling in 1827, the temple was modified to its present structure in 1862 but has undergone several renovations since.

It was gazetted  a National Monument in 1973.

Legend

Shri Mariamman is known for her power to cure illnesses and diseases.

Architecture

Dravidian-style architecture. It especially stands out for its gopuram (monumental tower) seen at the entrance

It is believed that most of this work, especially the elaborate plaster sculptures and ornamentation, were produced by skilled craftsmen from the Nagapattinam and Cuddalore districts of Tamil Nadu in South India.

photo credit https://www.wikiwand.com/en/Sri_Mariamman_Temple,_Singapore

photo credit https://www.nas.gov.sg/archivesonline

The original three-tiered gopuram (entrance tower) was constructed in 1903. It was slimmer and less richly embellished than the current tower. 

The present six-tiered gopuram was built in 1925. It was repaired and restored with an elaborate proliferation of sculptures in the 1960s.

Temple opening hours

Daily from 7am to midday and from 6pm to 9pm

Events and must do

Theemithi festival is a must. It is dedicated to Draupathi, heroine of the epic poem, the Mahabharata. Legend has it that she had to prove her innocence and fidelity by walking barefoot over hot coals. Festival has been celebrated here since 1840.

Theemithi festival  is held in the month of Aipasi, between October and November. However devotees will be involved with relevant rituals and ceremonies from the Tamil month of Aadi (~July/Aug).

Celebrations begins with a grand procession lead by a priest from the Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple on Serangoon Road for a 5km walk. The fire-walking usually begins around 5pm and the priest is the first to brave the four-metre long pit of embers, followed by other fervent devotees. This forbidding ritual celebrates the participant's faith and is said to fulfill his wishes. The scene attracts hundreds of spectators and an extra walkway was added along the boundary wall on Temple Street to accommodate the crowds.

Best Time to Visit
month of Aipasi, which is between the solar months of October and November.

Do's and Don'ts

All are welcomed to the temple

For attire, no shoes within temple premises and dress conservatively.

Admission is free, or S$3.00 if you have your camera. However, with a handphone camera it is ok. Always make it a habit to ask permission first in a Hindu temple.

You may purchase prayers chits for special aarthi.

Location Info 

Address : 244 S Bridge Road, Singapore 058793, Singapore

Contact Number : +65 6223 4064

GPS Coordinates : 1.2827° N, 103.8451° E

How to reach

The following local transport line have routes that pass near Sri Mariammam Temple

Google Map

Photos from our trip : Aug 2016

 

Sources

1. https://www.hotels.com/go/singapore/sri-mariamman-temple

2. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sri_Mariamman_Temple,_Singapore

*Note: All the information here is a compilation of online research and verbal communication with locals at sites. Not to be assumed as the final and conclusive information. If there are any discrepancies, please comment kindly.