ஸ்ரீ முருகன் கோவில் வோட்டர்லூ மற்றும் சமூக மையம், ஒன்டாரியோ, கனடா.
Sri Murugan Temple Waterloo Region and Community Center, Ontario, Canada.
ಶ್ರೀ ಸುಬ್ರಹ್ಮಣ್ಯ ಸ್ವಾಮಿ ದೇವಸ್ಥಾನ, ವಾಟರ್ಲೂ ಪ್ರದೇಶ.
శ్రీ సుబ్రహ్మణ్య స్వామి దేవాలయం, వాటర్లూ ప్రాంతం
Kataragama is one of the holiest pilgrimage sites in Sri Lanka, located in the Southern Province. The temple is sacred to Hindus, Buddhists, Muslims, and Veddas, making it a unique multi-religious site. According to legend, Lord Murugan (Skanda) married the Veddah princess Valli here. The temple complex houses shrines for Murugan (Kanda Kumaran) and Kataragama Deviyo, attracting devotees from India and Sri Lanka. The annual Esala Festival (July-August) is famous for its fire-walking rituals.
The temple sits on the banks of the Menik Ganga (River of Gems), considered holy. The history of the temple dates back over 2,000 years, symbolizing religious harmony. Pilgrims undertake "Pada Yatra", walking barefoot for days to reach this temple. The sacred Bo tree inside is believed to be a sapling from the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi. The temple's unique blend of Hindu and Buddhist beliefs makes it spiritually significant. Kataragama is revered as one of the six holy abodes of Lord Murugan (Arupadai Veedu) outside Tamil Nadu.
Maviddapuram Kandaswamy Temple is located in the northern Jaffna Peninsula, known as one of the oldest Murugan temples in Sri Lanka. The name 'Maviddapuram' means "the place where the horse’s face was removed," linked to a Chola princess cursed with a horse face. She was cured after bathing in the temple's holy waters, leading to the temple's construction. The temple is believed to have been built over 1,500 years ago during the Chola period.
Dedicated to Lord Murugan, it is known for its Dravidian architecture and towering gopurams. This temple is revered for miracles and divine blessings, especially for marriage and childbirth. During the civil war, the temple was damaged but has since been restored. The annual Chariot Festival attracts thousands of devotees. Historically, the temple was an important cultural and religious hub for the Tamil community. It is located near the Keerimalai Springs, also known for healing powers. Maviddapuram temple remains a symbol of heritage, devotion, and resilience in the North.
Nallur Kandaswamy Temple is one of the most significant Hindu temples in Jaffna and Sri Lanka, dedicated to Lord Murugan. Originally built in 948 AD, it was destroyed and rebuilt multiple times, with the present structure dating back to 1734. The temple is known for its majestic golden gopuram (tower), intricate carvings, and large temple complex. Nallur is famed for its 25-day annual festival, especially the Ther (Chariot) Festival, drawing devotees from around the world.
The temple follows strict traditional Saiva rituals and codes of purity. It was once the capital city of the Jaffna Kingdom, making the temple historically significant. Nallur Kovil is considered the spiritual center for Tamils in Sri Lanka. The temple is known for solving devotees' problems, especially related to family, health, and children. No meat, alcohol, or smoking is allowed in the area, preserving its sacred atmosphere. Nallur Kandaswamy Temple stands as a powerful symbol of Tamil heritage, spirituality, and pride.
Thirukkovil Temple is located in the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka, near the town of Thirukkovil in the Ampara District. This temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan (Kanda Swamy) and is considered one of the sacred shrines for Tamils in the East. It is believed to be over a thousand years old, with connections to ancient Tamil kings and local rulers. The temple’s name ‘Thirukkovil’ literally means ‘Sacred Temple’ in Tamil. Local legend says Murugan appeared here to bless his devotees and protect the region from disasters.
The temple is known for its beautiful coastal location, surrounded by nature. The annual festival in July-August is famous for processions, traditional rituals, and community celebrations. Devotees pray here for solutions to family problems, childbirth, and protection from evil. Thirukkovil Murugan Temple is an important cultural landmark for the Eastern Tamil community. It also serves as a gathering point for traditional Tamil arts and music. Despite past conflicts, the temple continues to thrive as a spiritual beacon in the East.
Ubayakathirgamam is a sacred Murugan temple located in the Northern Province, considered the twin temple of the original Kataragama. It is often referred to as the "Kathirgamam of the North", serving devotees who cannot travel to the main Kataragama temple. The temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan as Kathirgamam Kandaswamy. Built to mirror the rituals and traditions of the Southern Kataragama, it holds great spiritual importance for local Tamils.
It is believed that praying here grants the same blessings as visiting the main Kataragama temple. The temple’s location near the Vavuniya-Mannar border makes it accessible for Northern devotees. The annual festival and rituals follow the same style as the original Kataragama, including fire-walking and Kavadi. It is known for fulfilling devotees' wishes, especially in health, marriage, and education. The temple remains a vital center for Murugan worship in the region. Ubayakathirgamam preserves the cultural and religious identity of Tamils in the North.
Ukanthamalai Murugan Kovil is a hill temple dedicated to Lord Murugan, located in the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka. The name ‘Ukantha Malai’ means "The Hill where He stayed" in Tamil, signifying Murugan’s presence on this sacred hill. Local legends say Lord Murugan rested here after his divine journey. It is believed that the temple is over several centuries old and holds great spiritual significance for local devotees.
Pilgrims climb the hill to offer prayers, perform rituals, and seek Murugan’s blessings for their families. The temple provides a stunning view of the surrounding landscape, making it a serene spiritual spot. The annual Kavadi Festival attracts devotees who carry milk pots and perform penance. Ukanthamalai is also associated with fertility, marriage, and success prayers. The temple is surrounded by natural beauty, enhancing the divine experience. It stands as a peaceful retreat for Murugan devotees and nature lovers alike.
Velakkai Pillaiyar Temple is a famous Lord Ganesha (Pillaiyar) temple located in Jaffna, Northern Sri Lanka. Known for its deep-rooted spiritual significance, the temple is visited by devotees seeking blessings for new beginnings. It is believed that praying to Pillaiyar here removes obstacles and brings prosperity and wisdom. The temple is said to be several hundred years old, serving the local Tamil community through generations.
Velakkai Pillaiyar is especially revered by students, business owners, and newly married couples. The temple is known for its Vinayaka Chaturthi festival, celebrated with grandeur every year. Devotees offer modaks (sweet dumplings) and coconut to Lord Ganesha, believing their wishes will be fulfilled. The temple's peaceful atmosphere makes it a preferred place for daily prayers and special occasions. It stands as a symbol of hope, strength, and spiritual growth for the people of Jaffna. Velakkai Pillaiyar Temple remains an essential part of the region's Hindu culture and tradition.
