If you are looking for a historical and cultural attraction in Singapore, you should not miss the Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple in Little India. This temple is one of the oldest and most revered Hindu temples in the city-state, dedicated to Lord Vishnu and his various incarnations. The temple is also a national monument, recognized for its architectural and cultural significance. In this article, you will learn about the history, architecture, culture, and location of the Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple, and why you should visit it on your next trip to Singapore.
History
The Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the 19th century. The temple was originally built in 1855 by a group of Tamil settlers who came to Singapore from South India. They bought a piece of land along Serangoon Road and erected a simple shrine for Lord Vishnu, whom they called Sri Srinivasa Perumal. The shrine soon became a popular place of worship for the Hindu community in Little India.
Over the years, the temple underwent several renovations and expansions, thanks to the generous donations and contributions of its devotees and benefactors. The most notable renovation was in 1966, when the temple’s iconic gopuram (tower) was constructed, along with a new wedding hall and a well. The temple was also adorned with intricate sculptures, paintings, and carvings that depict the stories and legends of Lord Vishnu and his avatars.
In 1978, the Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple was gazetted as a national monument by the Singapore government, in recognition of its historical, architectural, and cultural value. The temple is also a living heritage, as it continues to serve as a place of worship and a center of religious and social activities for the Hindu community in Singapore.
Architecture
The Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple is a stunning example of the Dravidian style of architecture, which is characterized by elaborate and ornate structures that reflect the Hindu cosmology and mythology. The temple’s main attraction is the gopuram, which is a 20-meter-high tower that serves as the entrance to the temple. The gopuram is decorated with hundreds of colorful statues of gods, goddesses, and mythical creatures, each with a symbolic meaning and significance. The gopuram also represents the seven levels of heaven, with Lord Vishnu at the top.
As you enter the temple, you will see a spacious courtyard, where you can admire the temple’s well, which is believed to have healing properties. You can also see the temple’s ceiling, which is painted with beautiful floral motifs and geometric patterns. The ceiling also has a large chandelier, which was donated by a devotee in 1902.
The main shrine of the temple is located at the end of the courtyard, where you can see the idol of Sri Srinivasa Perumal, along with his consorts, Lakshmi and Andal. The idol is made of black granite and is adorned with gold and jewels. The shrine also has a silver door, which is opened only during special occasions. The temple also has four other shrines, dedicated to Lord Rama, Lord Krishna, Lord Hanuman, and Lord Garuda, who are all incarnations or associates of Lord Vishnu.
Culture
The Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple is not only a place of worship, but also a place of culture and celebration. The temple hosts various festivals and ceremonies throughout the year, which attract thousands of devotees and visitors. The most famous festival is Thaipusam, which is celebrated in January or February, depending on the lunar calendar. Thaipusam is a festival that honors Lord Murugan, the son of Lord Shiva and Parvati, and the brother of Lord Ganesha. During Thaipusam, devotees carry kavadis, which are metal frames decorated with flowers, feathers, and peacock feathers, and pierce their bodies with hooks, skewers, and needles.
They also chant, dance, and play music, as they walk from the Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple to the Sri Thendayuthapani Temple, which is about 4 kilometers away. The kavadis are a symbol of devotion, gratitude, and penance, and the devotees believe that they will receive blessings and protection from Lord Murugan.
Other festivals that are celebrated at the temple include Deepavali, which is the festival of lights, Navratri, which is the festival of nine nights, and Vaikunta Ekadasi, which is the day when the gates of heaven are opened. The temple also conducts weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, and other auspicious occasions, which add to the joy and vibrancy of the temple’s culture.
Location
The Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple is located at 397 Serangoon Road, in the heart of Little India, which is one of the most colorful and lively neighborhoods in Singapore. Little India is a place where you can experience the sights, sounds, smells, and tastes of India, without leaving Singapore. You can explore the various shops, markets, restaurants, and cafes that offer a variety of Indian goods, products, and cuisines. You can also visit other attractions and landmarks in Little India, such as the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, the Abdul Gafoor Mosque, the Indian Heritage Centre, and the Tekka Centre.
The temple is easily accessible by public transport, as it is close to the Little India MRT station, which is on the North East Line and the Downtown Line. You can also take buses 23, 64, 65, 66, 67, 131, 139, 147, 857, or NR6, and alight at the Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple bus stop. The temple is open daily from 6:30 am to 12 pm, and from 6 pm to 9 pm. There is no entry fee, but you are expected to dress modestly and respectfully, and remove your shoes before entering the temple. You can also make donations or offerings at the temple, if you wish.
The Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple in Singapore is a historical and cultural gem that you should not miss on your visit to the city-state. The temple is a testament to the faith, devotion, and heritage of the Hindu community in Singapore, and a showcase of the beauty and diversity of the Hindu religion and culture. Whether you are a religious person or not, you will surely be amazed and inspired by the temple’s history, architecture, culture, and location.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Singapore and visit the Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple today!
