As you come to the end of Pagoda Street joining South bridge road, you will come across a Hindu temple. Before you enter the temple you will notice the devotees ring the bell on the main door. These in the hope that the requests they make will be granted

Sri Mariamman Temple is the largest and oldest Hindu temple in Singapore. Administered by the Hindu Endowments board (HEB). It was completed in 1827, at that time basically just a wooden structure to house Sri Mariamman. The present brick building was built in 1862 to dedicate to the Goddess Sri Mariamman. Sri Mariamman’s origin can be traced to Tamil speaking region of south India where she is a village goddess.

The work ‘Mari” mean rain and it believed that she is responsible for ensuring the protection of the crops during major droughts.

These are few pointers to follow before you enter the temple

• Remove their footwear at the entrance.

• Refrain from smoking.

• Respect the sanctity of the deities and refrain from touching them and entering prohibited areas.

• Respect the privacy of devotees and not disturb them at prayer.