Sri Mariamman Hindu

Temple
In Singapore
Made By Shaira Mae Francisca Muncada
 History and background behind the sri mariamman
hindu temple
The temple dates back to
1827, when it was known as It is dedicated to the
Mariamman Kovil or Kling goddess Mariamman,
Chapel. Established by
Indian pioneer Naraina known for her power to
Pillai, the original cure illnesses and
wood-and-attap structure diseases.
was built by immigrants
from the Nagapatnam and
Cuddalore districts of
South India.
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 Modifications of the sri mariamman hindu temple
Sri Mariamman Temple was gazetted a National Monument in 1973. The
oldest parts of the existing brick structure date to 1843. The present
six-tiered gopuram (entrance tower) was built in 1925. It was repaired
and restored with an elaborate proliferation of sculptures in the 1960s.
More recent works include the addition of a new elevated viewing gallery which
is especially popular with spectators during the annual timiti (firewalking)
festival. Another major addition is a three-storey annexe building sited to the
rear of the temple. This annexe has a separate entrance on to Pagoda Street,
with an elaborate facade featuring traditional sculptural plasterwork. The
spacious building has a fully equipped auditorium and facilities for weddings,
multimedia presentations, corporate meetings, seminars and cultural events.
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IMAGES OF THE SRI MARIAMMAN HINDU TEMPLE

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 significance of the sri mariamman hindu temple
From its inception, Sri Mariamman Temple served as a refuge for new immigrants,
particularly South Indian Tamil Hindus. Besides providing an important place of
worship for these immigrants, the temple granted them shelter until they found work
and more permanent accommodation. Historically, the temple was the registry of
marriages for Hindus. At that time, only the priest of the Sri Mariamman Temple was
authorised to solemnise Hindu marriages in Singapore. Today, in addition to its
religious services and functions, the temple promotes various social, cultural and
educational activities.

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 Social role of the temple
From its inception, Sri Mariamman Temple served
as a refuge for new immigrants, particularly South
Indian Tamil Hindus. Besides providing an
important place of worship for these immigrants,
the temple granted them shelter until they found
work and more permanent accommodation.
Historically, the temple was the registry of
marriages for Hindus. At that time, only the priest
of the Sri Mariamman Temple was authorised to
solemnise Hindu marriages in Singapore. Today, in
addition to its religious services and functions, the
temple promotes various social, cultural and
educational activities.
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