Sri Mariamman Temple

Sri Mariamman Temple is the oldest Hindu Temple in Singapore. Since its construction in 1827, it has played an important role in the lives of Hindus here. In the early years, it provided shelter for Indian immigrants, and was the only Hindu temple whose priests were vested with the authority to solemnize Hindu marriages. Dedicated to the Mother Goddess, Sri Mariamman, the temple attracted many devotees, who turned to her powers of healing.

Sri Mariamman Temple was established by Narayana Pillai, who came to the settlement with the Raffles ‘s party in 1819. In 1823, Pillai requested for some land to build a temple, but it was only in 1827 that the first temple building was erected. Sri Mariamman temple most outstanding feature, the gopuram or entrance tower, dates from the 1930s.

Today, Sri Mariamman temple is best known for the fire-walking ceremony, or Theemithi, that is held every October or November. Devotees would walk on hot coals as a test of their faith and devotion.