Shri Mariamman Temple: The Most Significant Hindu Temple in Medan

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Medan was recognized before for its sheer distinction between the Chinese, Malay, native Batak and Indian groups. Ironically, one of the city’s most important areas, Little India, locally known as Kampung Keiling, has transformed to become a model of racial harmony between the Chinese groups and the once predominant Tamil community. One of the most prominent parts of Kampung Keiling is the Shri Mariamman temple, which is the only Hindu temple of any significance in Medan dedicated to the Hindu goddess Mariamman.

Based on the account of one local elder, Kampung Keiling was originally called Patisah, then changed to Kampung Madras to signify the South Indian origin of the people living in its 10-hectare land. But due to the dark skin of the South Indians, the name keiling, which is a slang word for darker skin, became more popular. The highlight of the Little India is the presence of Shri Mariamman temple, which today has turned one of Medan’s top tourist attractions. What makes this area unique is that during the time when Indonesia was experiencing many communal conflicts, this place has remained a harmonious and peaceful place for its residence despite racial, religious and economic diversity.

Built in 1888, the Shri Mariamman Temple is the oldest Hindu temple in Medan, constructed in the same year the Maimun Palace was built. The architectural design of the temple is similar to the ones seen in Singapore. It shows a usual architecture influenced by the Indian culture. The entrance tower or gopuram is green in color with an image of two angels carrying a huge flower necklace. On both sides are elephant statues that symbolize sacred animals of Hindu belief.

Going inside, you won’t miss the magnificent pole and floor made of marble, covered with green carpet. Several light decorations are also attached. The temple is divided into three main halls. Inside, you will notice a wooden pole standing above the rectangular cement. The temple is also filled with statues of the Hindu deities such as Ganesha, Shiva, Goddess Kali, Dewi and Vishnu.

The main praying hall is painted with colorful flowers on top of the pillars. The green carpets are used by the devotees for prayer before they move closer to the front to do another prayer. Adornments of lotus are common inside, and these are commonly found in Chinese temples. With the Shri Mariamman altar at the center, you can see plenty of devotees praying to her. Mariamman is the Hindu goddess of rain and disease and is believed to be the highly regarded deity in rural areas of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. On the right side stands the altar of Shri Murugan, the Hindu deity of war and the patron of Tamil Land. The altar of Shri Vinayagar, commonly known as Ganesha, is placed on the left side: he is said to be the Lord of Obstacles and is the most worshipped among the Hindu pantheon.

Shri Mariamman Temple is very easy to locate, since it is situated right at the heart of Medan. Plenty of public transportations like becak, taxis and other public transports pass through this location. To be specific, it is located at Jalan Teuku Umar No. 18. Take note that the temple only opens twice a day, during 5.30 am to 12 pm and 4 pm to 8 pm.