Holy Pilgrimage - Hindu temples in Singapore

Sri Thendayuthapani Temple, Singapore

15, Tank Road, Singapore - 238065

Phone: +65 - 6737 9393
Fax: +65 - 6735 0804

e-Mail for Admin Related: chtemple@singnet.com.sg

Upcoming Events at ST Temple

January 2014

28, Tuesday – Pradosham

30, Thursday - Thai Amavasai

31, Friday - Thai Third Velli

February 2014

5, Wednesday - Shukla Shashti Skantha Homam

7, Friday - Thai Karthigai, Thai Fourth Velli

12, Wednesday - Pradosham

13, Thursday - Natarajar Abishegam

Welcome to the Sri Thendayuthapani Temple, Singapore

Sri Thendayuthapani Temple also known as Chettiars' Temple is one of the oldest temple in Singapore and was built in the year 1859 A.D. by Nattukkottai Chettiars. Chettiars' Temple Society, the management body of Sri Thendayuthapani Temple also administers another temple Sri Layan Sithi Vinayagar Temple located in the center of China Town at 73, Keong Saik Road.
Sri Thendayuthapani temple listed in Singapore Tourism Board, as a tourist attraction, has a picturesque location and magnificent vicinity. It sprawls over a spacious area and is airy and bright. The main deity of this temple is Lord Sri Thendayuthapani also called Murugan. Lord Thendayuthapani has other names such as Balasubrahmanyan, Shanmukhan, Swaminathan, Vallimanalan, Palaniandavar, Arumugan, Saravanan, Sevar Kodiyon, etc.
At the entrance of the main sanctum, Lord Jambu Vinayagar has been erected on the right and Idumban on the left. In 1878, two separate sanctums were built for Lord Sundareswarar and Meenakshi Amman (incarnation of Lord Sivan and Goddess Sakthi).
Later, all other important deities including the Navagrahas were erected.
The Temple has a beautifully decorated "Alangara Mandapam" which is used on auspicious days to place the procession deity. Poojas are performed by Pandarams for deities in Sri Thendayuthapani Sanctum and by Sivacharyas (Brahmins) for deities in other sanctums.
As a landmark of all Hindu Temples in Singapore, 75 feet tall RAJAGOPURAM was completed in 1983. The consecration ceremony was conducted on 24th November 1983. During reconstruction, modern amenities were added to the temple that includes a Marriage hall with dining facility.
The temple was renovated and repainted again in 1996, followed by consecraton function on 29th November 1996.
After 13 years, the temple went through a renovation process and the recent consecration function was held on Friday, 27th of November 2009.
Now,the temple has a separate staff quarters, a library, an office room and a spacious and well-decorated stage for cultural performances during special
Every year six important festivals are celebrated with great pomp and grandeur, which are: ThaiPusam, LetchaArchanai for Meenakshi Amman & Durgai Amman, Navarathri, Skantha Shashti and Thiru Karthigai. Click here for more details on festivals and occasions.
Annadhanam (Free Lunch) On the occasion of Guru Poojai and Karthigai (an auspicious day falling on every month), delicious varieties of dishes is being served to the devotees in the afternoon after the prayer.
The contact details for the temple is as follows

Sri Thendayuthapani Temple (also known as Chettiars' Temple)
15, Tank Road
Singapore 238065
Phone: +65 - 6737 9393
Fax: +65 - 6735 0804

e-Mail for Admin Related: chtemple@singnet.com.sg

History of Sri Thendayuthapani Temple

The Origin of Sri Thendayuthapani Temple, Singapore

The Chettiar community is deeply rooted in the Hindu tradition especially in the Saiva Siddhantha. Members of the community are very devoted to Sri Thendayuthapani also called as Lord Muruga.

But it was not until 35 years after their arrival in Singapore that they constructed a proper temple in honour of Sri Thendayuthapani. C M Turnbull, in her book A History of Singapore 1819-1975 records that the Nattukkottai Chettiars built the Subramaniam Temple (a popular name given to the temple by non Chettiars) in Tank Road in 1859.

However prior to that year, they had installed a Vel (spear). a representation of Lord Muruga, under a tree where they offered their prayers. The Vel was installed below a pipal (arasa maram) tree at the bank of a tank (pond). Fresh water from the hill where the Central Park is now, emerged as a waterfall and filled the tank. The location was ideal for the establishment of a temple. The Chettiars took their bath there before offering their prayers to the Vel.The railway line nearby also provided an excellent form of transport to and from Malaya where they had also established their businesses.

The tree had to be uprooted when the government acquired the land for re-doing Tank Road. The site where the Vel was now forms part of the slip road that leads to River Valley Road and Clemenceau Avenue.
Prior to the proper construction of their temple, the Chettiars visited and offered their prayers at the Sivan Temple, now relocated at Geylang East and at Sri Mariamman Temple at South Bridge Road. Their important associations with these two temples are described in their recent consecration ceremony souvenir magazines.
The First Consecration Ceremony of Sri Thendayuthapani temple
The slab stones found at Sri Thendayuthapani Temple show that the temple was consecrated on 4.4.1859. That would mean that the building works had started one or two years earlier. In fact the community bought the land, where the present temple stands, from the estate of Mr Oxley, the first Surgeon General of Singapore. The temple in its original form was of a simple structure. At the entrance to the temple, two raised platforms similar to that found in Chettiar households in Tamil Nadu were erected. It had an alangara mandapam and an artha mandapam. The alangara mandapam was used to house the decorated deities on special occasions while the artha mandapam was the centre hall leading to the main sanctum.
The main sanctum was of course dedicated to Lord Muruga in the form of Sri Thendayuthapani. The Jambu Vinayagar and Iduambar sanctums were constructed on either side of the main sanctum somewhat similar to the present sanctums. A dining hall with a courtyard, called the Kaarthikai Kattu was used for serving food on Karthikai and special occasions such as Thaipusam. Under the chapter, "Many Gods", Roland Braddell, in his book, "the Lights of Singapore", (first edition 1935) describes quite light heartedly on how the Chettiars used to feed the people.

"... a great reception is held at the temple to which all are welcome, whatever their race or creed, while the devotees are fed in the courtyard from huge cauldrons of rice and curry, which they pile upon fresh banana leaves.."

The Kaarthikai Kattu, erected in 1859 was demolished about 122 years later in 1981 to make way for the Chettiars Wedding Hall. Food is served at the ground level of the wedding hall on days when Kaarthikai is observed and on other occasions. The method of serving food remains the same.
The Evolution of Sri Thendayuthapani Temple
The old temple underwent some renovation and restoration works on two occasions when the consecration ceremonies were held in 1936 and 1955. However, the community felt the need to upgrade the temple with modern facilities so as to keep pace with the development of Singapore. The Nagarathars decided in the late seventies, to rebuild the temple on the same site. The temple was to be in the centre with a wedding hall and staff quarters flanking its sides. The food courtyard known as the karthigai kattu was replaced by a wedding hall with car parking facilities. The piling work started on 4 Jan 1981 and was completed on 19 Jan 1983. A two storey staff quarters was also built at about the same time. An imposing Raja Gopuram or the entrance tower was erected. It is 75 feet high and is one of the tallest gopurams (tower) in South East Asia. As one enters the temple through the tower gate, the temple opens up into the arthamandapam, the alangara mandapam and an office on the right and the library on the left.
Figures of Hindu deities, especially that of the principal God-From elaborately sculptured on the pillars draws attention of the visitor. The numerous stained glasses with Lord Ganesha and figures of other deities etched on them, is another attraction, which elevate the minds of the devotees. The temple with its open concept adds space to the thousands of devotes who gather at the sanctums during the major festivities of the temple. The whole temple complex was built at a cost of $ 3.3 million most of which came from the Chettiars themselves. The newly built temple was consecrated on 24th of November 1983. The then President Mr. C V Devan Nair and the First Lady Mrs. Devan Nair together with MPs of Indian Origin and other dignitaries were among the thousands of devotees who turned up at the temple to witness the consecration. The temple was consecrated again on 29, November 1996. Gold and silver medallions were released to commemorate the occasion.
After 13 years, the temple went through a renovation process and the recent consecration was held on Friday, 27th of November 2009. Thousands of devotees were present during both the occasions. A live web telecast of consecration also was done for the benifit of devotees worldwide.

Worship of Murugan

The Worship of Murugan
The Kaumaras or those who regard and worship Kumara, Skanda, Shanmuga or Karthikeya as the Supreme Being, belong to one of the sects of the Hindu faith. The other five being Ganapathyam (worship of Ganesa), Saivaism (worship of Lord Siva), Vaishnavaism (worship of Lord Vishnu), Shaoram (worship of Sun) and Saktham (worship of Shakthi). This division was devised by the Saint Adi Shankara. Thirumurukattruppadai and Paripadal A review of references in early Tamil literature points to the conclusion that the worship of Muruga is very ancient among the Tamils.
The work of Thirumurukattruppadai devoted entirely to the extolling of Murugan, is attributed to Nakkirar, a celebrated bard of the early period and the poems in the Paripadal which are exclusively in praise of Chevvel (The Red One) are the earliest and best works available which enable us to study the worship of Muruga.
Besides the two works a number of references are made about Muruga in the oldest Tamil grammar book Tolkapiyam that says that the mountain region is dear to Cheyon (Cheyon Meya Maivaraiyulagamum).
There is also reference in Porulathikaram to veriyadal-to dance in frenzy-the dance of invocation to the god Muruga, which is conducted by a person called Velan so called because he holds a spear in his hand while he dances.
The Holy Vel - Spear of Murugan
The Vel of Murugan, which is identical with Him, is a mystic divine weapon with which He destroyed the Asuras. The Vel, which is Wisdom-Absolute, also annihilates the inner Asuras or Enemies of Avidya, Karma and liberates the Jiva (Soul) from transmigration.
The Vel is a mysterious divine power and is referred to by Saint Arunagiri as the Mantra Vel in one of his Thiruppugazh (Songs of praise of God or the Glorious One).
It is not surprising therefore that the emblem of this divinity, Vel, is the object of worship in some of the shrines of Murugan.
Devotees carrying kavadis also use Vel. The very word vel has the mystic powers of invoking the grace of Murugan and therefore devotees chant "Vel, Vel", "Veera Vel", "Gnana Vel", "Shakthi Vel".
Murugan and His Consorts
Teyvayanai and Valli are the consorts of Murugan. Teyvayanai is the daughter of Indran, the King of the Devas (Celestials) and Valli is the pretty daughter of the hunting tribe. In another words the former belongs to the Heavens and the later to the mountainous regions of this world.
Murugan with His consorts is described in Paripadal thus: "O Lord Muruga, perhaps wishing to reside in this world even as you reside in the Heavens, you reached Katampu tree, the significance of which is hard to comprehend even by the wise; you married Valli in order to make the people of this world live in happiness in the same manner as you do for the Devas in the upper world; which marriage is in fact a contrast to your marriage to Teyvayanai".
The marriage of Teyvayanai to Murugan signifies that the Atman (Soul represented by Teyvayanai) seeks the union with Brahmatman (represented by Murugan) and the marriage of Valli signifies that at times Brahmatman seeks the union of Atman. Later commentators and the Saiva Siddhanda Philosophers have interpreted the consorts of Murugan as being His inherent energy. Teyvayanai is Energy of Action (Kriya-Sakthi) and Valli is Energy of Desire (Iccha-Sakthi). But in actual worship however, the Supreme place of honour is reserved for Murugan although He accompanies Teyvayanai and Valli.
It is also said that Teyvayanai and Valli are daughters of Vishnu, the maternal uncle of Murugan and by His marriage Murugan acts as a link between the Vaishnavaites (worshippers of Vishnu) and the Saivaites (worshippers of Siva).
Lord of Six Faces
Murugan is popularly depicted as having six faces and twelve arms. The poets like to address Him as "Arumugan" - Lord of Six Faces.
The sacred functions of Murugan as having six faces are described as thus :

One face sheds rays of Light and removes the dense darkness shrouding the world;
One face with gracious look lovingly showers boons on his devotees who praise Him with Love and Joy;
One face watches over the sacrifices of the Brahmans who perform them without deviating from the strict Vedic traditions;
One face like full moon, which brightens all the quarters of the world, lights the sages' minds to enable them to search for hidden Truth;
One face with raging heart performs battle-sacrifice-destroy His enemies and
One face smiles lovingly on His young consort, the pretty daughter of the hunting tribe

Other Descriptions of Murugan

"the Child of Kottravi" - the Goddess of Victory (Durga)
"the Child of the Ancient One"
"the Captain of the Heavenly Hosts"
"the Lord of the Mountain Region"
"the Lord who holds the Victorious Spear"
"the Heroic Lord with the Victorious banner gained in war"

Some of these descriptions suggest that Murugan was the War God of the Tamils.
Why Fast?
While checking one's weight, keeping the body supple, reflexes sharp, and the mind alert, fasting helps him to gain greater control over his involuntary muscles. Through fasting one can improve his discipline and increase his will power. It also helps him to be pure in thought.
The person who carries the kavadi should be in a state of extra ordinary purity attained by means of fasting for a certain period of time. It is often said that a forty-eight day (mandalam) fast is required but most devotees fast for lesser periods. The devotee should be on a strict vegetarian diet abstaining from all kinds of pollution (theetu) such as abstaining from sex, sleeping on the floor and eating from his own private utensils. He should not shave and if inauspicious events such as death were to occur he should not even participate in the function as the pollution would cling to him however vigorous his fast had been.
Fasting is thus not just limited to the intake of food but include the temporary renunciation of all physical pleasures and luxuries. Through his abstinence the devotee disciplines his body and mind and enters into a whole realm of spiritualism. It is a personal experience between him and Lord Murgan.
Why Light Camphor?
Hindus have great faith in light as the supreme symbol of God who dispels darkness, which is associated with evil, fear and ignorance.
The light of the camphor, as it dispels this darkness, signifies the overcoming of evil through virtue, fear through courage and ignorance through knowledge. As the camphor burns itself out, so we pray that our own ego is burnt up likewise and that we should be redeemed from all our sins, problems, mental and physical stress and shall be left with everlasting peace, joy and bliss.
Why Do Hindus Break Coconut?
The Hindus believe that the coconut is the purest form of offering that one can render unto God. The fruit is unique in many respects.
The sweet, nectar-like water that it holds is pure and untouched by the human hand. The tree draws from its very base to its highest level. The coarsely knit outer fibers of the coconut represent the jealousy, greed, lust, selfishness and other vices of man, which must be broken up and removed if one is to penetrate and reach the white inner purity and thereafter taste the sweet untouched nectar of spiritual purity and bliss.
No other fruit has the three distinct eyes of the coconut. These symbolise the Trinity of Evolution - Creation, Preservation and Dissolution. The eyes also represent the three eyes of man - the two physical eyes plus the third or 'inner eye' can penetrate the false, outer facade and reach the ultimate truth. It alone distinguishes right from wrong.
The composition of the coconut is characteristic of the three elements of man. The hard, outer shell, with its coarse fibers, represents the physical composition. The inner white fruit represents man's psychological element, and the untouched water signifies his spiritual composition. Having been offered to God by way of prayer, the coconut is then eaten by Hindus as blessed food or prasadh in the belief that it has now received divine vibrations from God and will therefore give us good health and prosperity.
Why Do Hindus Use Ashes?
Nothing in this world is everlasting. Everything is perishable. Even this physical body of ours ceases to function some day and is said to be dead.
Our mortal remains are then cremated and turn to ashes, or buried, which then rot and become dust.
The Hindus place ashes on their foreheads to remind themselves, of this universal truth - nothing is everlasting ... the ultimate is dust.
The Ashes serve to remind one to cast aside his petty jealousies, suspicions, selfishness and other evil qualities, and to live in harmony with one another - to love, respect and serve his fellow beings while he can.
The holy ash is so prepared that it richly abounds in medicinal properties and contains high curative qualities. It can be placed on the forehead, rubbed over the body or taken internally to relieve pains, illnesses and anxiety.
When used in prayer with the manthras, it becomes highly potent, wards off evil, overcomes problems and brings happiness, peace and harmony to the individual as well as the household. Its power is truly dynamic.
The ash is the creation of the element fire, which dissolves everything. Thus the sacred ash dissolves all our ills and brings us good health, peace and prosperity.

Services available at Sri Thendayuthapani Temple

The following services are available in Sri Thendayuthapani Temple for devotees to perform cetain religious custom. Apart from religious services, the temple also provides training on religious songs, physical education services and Anna Thanam.

Fee is applicable for some services and some are free of cost. Please click on the below for details. For additional information please contact the temple office at 6737 9393.

Anna Thaanam

Chettiars' Temple Society provides Anna Thaanam (free food) on ocassions such as Karthigai, Navarathiri, Guru Poojai and Thaipusam. Provision of Anna Thanam timing might vary from morning, noon, evening and night that depends on function and festival timing. Annam means food and Thaanam means donate in Tamil Language.

Distribution of free food is available to people of all ages and races. Devotees who avail the free food and consume with in the temple, consider themselves as blessed by god.

Chettiars' Temple Society is providing this service to devotees for many decades. Those who wish to offer Anna Thaanam are requested to contact temple office for more details.

Anna Prasannam
A ritual that is being followed by number of devotees in Singapore, Sri Thendayuthapani Temple performs this custom of feeding young children called Anna Prasannam. Annam means food in Tamil.
A fee is applicable for this service and is payable by Cash or NETS. NETS mode of payment is applicable only when the payment is above SGD 20.

Ear Piercing
Devotees who would like to do ear piercing for their young children are allowed to do this custom in Sri Thendayuthapani Temple. Devotees need to bring thier own Gold Smith at their cost.
A fee is applicable for this service and is payable by Cash or NETS. NETS mode of payment is applicable only when the payment is above SGD 20.

Head Shaving
Head shaving (Tonsuring) is being done every Sunday between 8.00 AM to 11.30 AM, within the premises of Sri Thendayuthapani Temple. Devotees can use the in-house toilet and bathing facility.
Hot water is provided (Subjected to availability and only for children).
Devotees who wish to fulfill their vows are requested to visit the temple on Sunday morning within the above stipulated timings.
A fee is applicable for this service and is payable by Cash or NETS. NETS mode of payment is applicable only when the payment is above SGD 20.
Sanctum Marriage
Devotees who would like to conduct a Sanctum Marriage can use the service available in Sri Thendayuthapani Temple. The following rules apply.

Bride and Bridegroom should be either Singapore Citizen or Permenant Resident.
They should have completed the formalities and obtained the Marriage Certificate(ROM) from Registry of Marriages, Singapore.
They should personally visit the temple office and book a date for conducting the Sanctum Marriage.
A copy of ROM certificate and IC copies of bride and bridegroom to be give to temple office at the time of booking for marriage service.
On the day of Sanctum Marriage, they should bring Thali (Nupital), Flower Garlands and give it to the Chief Priest.
After blessing, the Chief Priest will hand over the Thali (Nupital) to the bridegroom and afterwhich the bridegroom can tie the Thali (Nupital) on bride.

A fee is applicable for this service and is payable by Cash or NETS. NETS mode of payment is applicable only when the payment is above SGD 20.

Thevaram
Knowing the value and the importance of Thevaram, Sri Thendayuthapani temple is teaching this great Hindu literary work. The classes are held within the premises of the temple on Saturday and Sunday evenings. Anyone interested in learning are requested to approach the temple Odhuvar (Thevaram Teacher ). This service is free of cost to all devotees.
Yoga - Weekly
Knowing the value and the importance of Yoga, Sri Thendayuthapani temple, with the help of volunteers, is teaching this great Indian art that helps to achieve good health. Highlights of the program and requirement list is as follows.

Every Wednesday evening
Time 7.00 to 8.30 PM
Venue - Sri Thendayuthapani Temple (Ground floor of Marriage Hall)
Age - Minimum of 12 years old and above

Fees - Nil (Free of cost service)
Eligibility - All races
Course Duration 12 weeks (approximately)
Participants have to bring thier own Yoga Matt. No sale of Yoga Matt from temple.

On Wednesday evening between 7.00 to 8.30 PM visit Sri Thendayuthapani Temple Marriage Hall and approach one of the Coordinator to get to know the next available course schedule.

Pooja Timings at Sri Thendyuthapani Temple

Rituals performed at Sri Thendayuthapani Temple every day:

Timing	Ritual
5.30 AM	Sanganatham
8.00 AM	Abisegham
8.10 AM	Prayer - Kalasanthi Aarathi
12.00 noon	Sanctum Closing
4.30 PM	Abisegham
5.30 PM	Sayalatchai Aarathi
8.30 PM	Arthajama Aarathi / Sanctum Closing

Pooja timings are subjected to change due to various reasons.

Archanai Service

Sri Thendayuthapani Temple provides Archanai service (chanting Manthra) either in the name of Deity or Devotee. Coconut and Fruit Archanai services are provided at a cost. After performing the Archanai service, the priest will give the devotee either a Coconut or a Fruit with blessings from god.

Special Prayers at Sri Thendayuthapani Temple

Sri Thendayuthapani Temple provides the following Archanai services (chanting Manthra)

Regular Archanai in devotees or in Deities name (Coconut and Fruit Archanai)
Sahasranama Archanai
Shanmuga Archanai for Lord Sri Thendayuthapani
Skanda Homam for Lord Sri Thendayuthapani
Letcharchanai for Lord Sri Thendayuthapani during Skantha Sashti
Letcharchanai for Lordess Meenakshi Amman
Letcharchanai for Lordess Durgai Amman

Shanmuga Archanai

Sahasranama Archanai

Shukla Shashti Skantha Homam

ThaiPusam

A festival occurring in the Tamil month Thai (January-February), the day of the star Pusam around Pournami (Full Moon) is celebrated as ThaiPusam.

It is a special day for worship of Lord Muruga (also known as Subrahmanya or Thendayuthapani) and is celebrated in a very grand manner at all Murugan temples, especially at the 'Aaru Padai Veedu' of Murugan (Six temples in India dedicated to Lord Muruga).

Festivals at Sri Thendayuthapani Temple

Sri Thendayuthapani Temple celebrates various festivals with pomp and splendour. More details as below.

Amavasai

This marks the new moon day. The moon, which is one of the Nava Grahas denoted as CHANDRAN, is considered as a deity who showers blessings of prosperity and good health. This occurs once every month, usually a fortnight after Pournami. The Amavasai, which occurs in the month of Puratasi, that is the end of September and the beginning of October, is considered of special importance and celebrated as Mahaliya Amavasai.

Fasting during this day brings peace to the belated and ancestors. It is a ritual to give Annadhanam (food) to Brahmins on this day.

Aaruthra Darisanam
Out of the 27 stars (natchathiram), the star Thiruvathirai, famously called as “Thiru” is the star of Lord Shiva. According to myth, this star is supposed to be bigger, brighter and hotter than the Sun.

Guru Poojai

Guru” in Hindu religion depicts a human with teaching skills and considers him powerful, next to the almighty. A Guru is to be treated with high esteem, respect and dignity. Sometimes God himself incarnates as Guru and people worship the Guru. This is referred to as Guru Bhakti. Even though the appearance is in the form of human, he is different from us.
What defines the word Guru?
Guru stands for one who eliminates the darkness of ignorance and gives light of wisdom. Lord Shiva, the supreme god of Hindu religion is the one who is empowered to offer “Mukthi” to fellow human beings. “Mukthi” in Hindu religion is to achieve almighty’s foot after human being passes away his last breath.
The day on which the Guru merges with Lord Shiva and attains “Mukthi” is worshipped as Guru Poojai. On similar lines, the day on which the 63 “Nayanmargal” of the Shaiva sect attained “Mukthi” along with Lord Shiva is worshipped as Guru Poojai.
Sage Arunagiriyar sings as “Guruvai Varuvai Arulvai Gugane” to emphasize on Guru Poojai. Sage Thirumoolar sang as follows in “ThiruManthiram”.

“Thelivu Guruvin Thirumeni Kandal

Thelivu Gurvin Thirunamam Seppal

Thelivu Gurvin Thiruvarthai Kettal

Thelivu Guruvai Sinthithal Thane”

Sages have celebrated the worship of Guru Poojai and advocate the worship of same to get the blessing of God and respective Gurus. In Sri Thendayuthapani temple, Guru Poojas of 6 Gurus are celebrated every year.
On the Guru Pooja day the Guru Poojas tradition is preserved by reciting the history of respective Nayanmargal. The recital starts around 11.00 AM approximately and will end around 12.30 in the noon. After the recital and deeparathanai, annathanam will be distributed to all devotees.

Month	Star	Guru
Chithirai	Sadhayam	Thirunavukkarasu Nayanar Guru Poojai
Vaigasi	Poosam	Sekkizhar Guru Poojai
Vaigasi	Moolam	Thirugnanasambandar Guru Poojai
Aani	Magam	Manickavasagar Guru Poojai
Aadi	Swathi	Sundra Moorthy Nayanar Guru Poojai
Panguni	Uthiram	Aandavar Guru Poojai

Koviloor Aandavar Guru Poojai
During 18th century, Muthu Ramalinga Gyana Desigar (also celebrated as Koviloor Aandavar) involved Nagarathars in religious activities. He was born in 1791 and his guru was Porul Vaitha Cheri Uganthalinga Swamigal.
Muthu Ramalinga Gyana Desigar established the “Vedantha Madam” in Koviloor, 3 Kms away from Karaikudi, Chettinadu Area, Tamil Nadu State of India and preached vedantha lessons to ardent devotees of Shaiva sect. With the help of Nagarathars, he built the temple for “Lord KotraVaallegar and his consort Goddess Thiru Nellammai” in Koviloor.
Participation in Koviloor temple construction activity by Nagarathars led them to do more charitable and temple related work subsequently.
Koviloor Aandavar was able to predict his final days much earlier and gave the responsibility of maintaining the temple to Arunachala Gyana Desigar. Koviloor Aandavar died in 1848. By observing the “Koviloor Aandavar Guru Poojai” Nagarathars are still continuing the divine services to God, having established countless Temples, Charitable, endowment activities and various forms of social services.

Karthigai – Monthly, Maha Shivaratri, Navarathri, Pournami , Pradosham,

Ramayanam, Thiru Karthigai, Sri Durgai Amman LetchaArchanai, Skantha Shashti LetchaArchanai, Sri Meenakshi Amman LetchaArchanai,

Facilities at Sri Thendayuthapani Temple

Wedding Hall, Multi Purpose Hall,

1 January 2014 Wednesday Margazhi 17 Danur Matha Poojai (Margazhi Matham Poojai)

English New Year

Amavasai

2 January 2014 Thursday Margazhi 18 Danur Matha Poojai (Margazhi Matham Poojai)

3 January 2014 Friday Margazhi 19 Danur Matha Poojai (Margazhi Matham Poojai)

4 January 2014 Saturday Margazhi 20 Danur Matha Poojai (Margazhi Matham Poojai)

5 January 2014 Sunday Margazhi 21 Danur Matha Poojai (Margazhi Matham Poojai)

6 January 2014 Monday Margazhi 22 Danur Matha Poojai (Margazhi Matham Poojai)

Shukla Shashti Skantha Homam

7 January 2014 Tuesday Margazhi 23 Danur Matha Poojai (Margazhi Matham Poojai)

8 January 2014 Wednesday Margazhi 24 Danur Matha Poojai (Margazhi Matham Poojai)

9 January 2014 Thursday Margazhi 25 Danur Matha Poojai (Margazhi Matham Poojai)

10 January 2014 Friday Margazhi 26 Danur Matha Poojai (Margazhi Matham Poojai)

Sri Mariamman Temple Upayam

11 January 2014 Saturday Margazhi 27 Danur Matha Poojai (Margazhi Matham Poojai)

Karthigai

Vaigunda Eagathasi

12 January 2014 Sunday Margazhi 28 Danur Matha Poojai (Margazhi Matham Poojai)

13 January 2014 Monday Margazhi 29 Danur Matha Poojai (Margazhi Matham Poojai)

Pradosham

14 January 2014 Tuesday Thai 01 Danur Matha Poojai (Margazhi Matham Poojai)

Thai Pongal

15 January 2014 Wednesday Thai 02 Maatu Pongal

16 January 2014 Thursday Thai 03 Punar Pusam Ratha Urchavam

17 January 2014 Friday Thai 04 ThaiPusam

Thai First Velli

24 January 2014

Friday

Thai 11

Thai Second Velli

24 January 2014

Friday

Thai 11

Thai Second Velli

Theipirai Ashtami

28 January 2014 Tuesday Thai 15 Pradosham

30 January 2014 Thursday Thai 17 Thai Amavasai

31 January 2014 Friday Thai 18 Thai Third Velli

5 February 2014 Wednesday Thai 23 Shukla Shashti Skantha Homam

7 February 2014 Friday Thai 25 Thai Karthiga

12 February 2014 Wednesday Thai 30 Pradosham

13 February 2014 Thursday Maasi 01 Natarajar Abishegam

14 February 2014 Friday Maasi 02 Pournami

15 February 2014 Saturday Maasi 03 Maasi Makam

22 February 2014 Saturday Maasi 10 Theipirai Ashtami

27 February 2014 Thursday Maasi 15 Pradosham

Maha Shivaratri at STT

1 March 2014 Saturday Maasi 17 Amavasai

6 March 2014 Thursday Maasi 22 Shukla Shashti Skantha Homam

7 March 2014 Friday Maasi 23 Karthigai

14 March 2014 Friday Maasi 30 Pradosham

16 March 2014 Sunday Panguni 02 Pournami

24 March 2014 Monday Panguni 10 Theipirai Ashtami

28 March 2014 Friday Panguni 14 Pradosham

30 March 2014 Sunday Panguni 16 Amava

5 April 2014 Saturday Panguni 22 Shukla Shashti Skantha Homam

12 April 2014 Saturday Panguni 29 Maha Pradosham

13 April 2014 Sunday Panguni 30 Aandavar Guru Poojai

Panguni Uthiram

14 April 2014 Monday Chittirai 01 Tamil New Year - Jeya Varud

About Hinduism
Hinduism, one of the oldest in this world is known more as a way of life than as a religion. It is also the principal faith of the people of India. Hinduism differs from other religions in the fact that it does not have a single founder, a specific theological system, a single system of morality, or a central religious organization. It consists of thousands of different religious groups that have evolved in India since 3000 BC.
Hinduism has grown to become one of the world's largest religions. It claims about 762 million followers - 13% of the world's population. It is the dominant religion in India, Nepal, and among the Tamils in Sri Lanka. Hinduism is referred to as Santana Dharma, the eternal faith. Hinduism is not strictly a religion. It is based on the practice of Dharma, the code of life. Since Hinduism has no founder, anyone who practices Dharma can call himself a Hindu. He can question the authority of any scripture, or even the existence of the Divine.
While religion means to bind, Dharma means to hold. What man holds on to is inner law, which leads from ignorance to Truth. Though reading of the scriptures (shastras) would not directly lead you to self-realization, the teachings of the seers provide a basis and a path for spirituality. Despite being the oldest religion, the truth realized by the seers prove that the Truth and path provided by Hinduism is beyond time.
Sacred texts
Among the most important of all Hindu sacred texts are the Vedas: the Rig Veda, Sama Veda, Yajur Veda and Atharvana Veda. Rig Veda is the oldest, having been composed about 1500 BC and written down about 600 BC. They contain hymns, incantations, and rituals from ancient India. Another group of primary texts are the Upanishadas. They are, "a continuation of the Vedic philosophy, and were written between 800 and 400 B.C. They elaborate on how the soul (Atman) can be united with the ultimate truth (Brahman) through contemplation and mediation, as well as the doctrine of Karma - the cumulative effects of a persons' actions." The Mahabharata, were written 540 to 300 BC, and have been attributed to the sage Vyasa. They record "the legends of the Bharatas, one of the Aryan tribal groups." The Bhagavad Gita is the sixth book of the Mahabharata. It is a poem describing a conversation between a warrior Arjuna and the God Krishna. It is an ancient text that has become central to Hinduism and other belief systems. Another important text is the Ramayana. It is "a moving love story with moral and spiritual themes." It is dated to the first century CE and has been attributed to the poet Valmiki. Other texts include the Brahmanas, the Sutras, and the Aranyakas.
Hindu beliefs and practices
Hinduism has commonly been viewed in the west as a polytheistic religion - one that worships multiple deities: gods and goddesses.
Some have viewed it as a monotheistic religion, because it recognizes only one supreme God. The entire universe is seen as one divine entity who is simultaneously at one with the universe and who transcends it as well. Some view Hinduism as Trinitarian because Brahman is simultaneously visualized as a triad:

Information for Tourists

Chettiars' Temple Society, Singapore welcomes Tourists and visitors of all races. Guests are strictly requested to adhere to the following regulations and help devotees in conducting thier prayers.

Please remove your shoes before entering the temple
Do not litter within the temple
Do not enter into the Sanctum. Only Priests are allowed to enter to Sanctum
Do not to touch or go near the deities in the temple
Please dress modestly and obscene dressing is prohibed with in the whole temple premises
If you wish you could offer money in the donation box situated within the temple
You are allowed to take photographs inside the temple and the statues on the pillars
Do not disturb devotees
It will be appreciable if you could maintain silence all the time when you are inside the temple
No Smoking with in temple premises

Contact Us

Postal Address

Sri Thendayuthapani Temple (also known as Chettiars' Temple)
15, Tank Road
Singapore 238065
Phone: +65 - 6737 9393
Fax: +65 - 6735 0804

e-Mail for Admin Related: chtemple@singnet.com.sg

e-Mail for Web Feedback: sttemple_sg@yahoo.com

BY MRT : 5 minutes walk from Dhoby Gaut MRT Station
By BUS : 54, 64, 123, 139, 143
From Jalan Besar : 139, 64
From Orchard Road : 123, 143
From People's Park, Outram MRT, World Trade Centre : 54, 143
From Pasir Panjang, West Coast Road : 143

Om Tat Sat

(Continued...)

(My humble salutations to the great devotees , wikisources and Pilgrimage tourist guide for the collection )

Hindu Vedic Philosophy (Holy Pilgrimage - Theertha Kshetra)