President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, On Sunday, April 27, launched ‘A Sacred Space in Singapore’, a documentary that takes a deep dive into the Sri Senpaga Vinayagar Temple, located in the heart of Katong district.
Over 100 years old, this site is not only a place of worship, but also one of Singapore’s oldest and most cherished temples, and holds special significance, especially to the Ceylon Tamil community.
Dedicated to lord Ganesha, the temple has served as a gathering point for the pioneers of the Ceylon Tamil community, who decided to make Singapore their home more than 100 years ago.
It has stood strong through the years, influencing and shaping the traditions, culture, and heritage of the community, while also evolving with Singapore’s changing landscape. Today, the temple continues to be a central pillar for the Ceylon Tamil community, preserving their roots while adapting to modern times.
A Sacred Space in Singapore — A documentary
The documentary, presented by Ceylon Tamils’ Association and the Sri Senpaga Vinayagar Temple, chronicles the inspiring journey of the temple, tracing its beginnings from the mid-1800s to its current status as a heritage site.
Supported by the National Heritage Board (NHB), the film brings history to life through vivid historical reenactments and moving interviews with community elders.
These voices reveal stories of tenacity, unity, and pride that have defined the temple’s role in Singapore’s history. The documentary also reflects on the broader journey of the Ceylon Tamil community, highlighting their contributions to Singapore’s development.
The film is a testament to how a minority community left an indelible mark on the nation’s fabric, and as Singapore celebrates its 60th birthday, the documentary serves as a reminder of the long-standing ties between the community and the country.
Roots and Routes — A poster exhibition
In addition to the documentary, a poster exhibition titled ‘Roots and Routes: The Ceylon Tamils of Singapore’ was also showcased. This exhibition shines a spotlight on the community’s remarkable contributions to Singapore, both in the past and in the present.
It captures the defining moments of their journey and reminds the younger generation of Singaporeans about their heritage and the brave decisions made by their forefathers to build a new life in Singapore.
The exhibition also serves as a tribute to the cultural legacy of the Ceylon Tamil community, reminding everyone of the strength and resilience that have shaped their identity and role in Singapore’s multicultural society.
Fundraising for Kumbhabhishegam 2027
The event also included a fundraising initiative to support the Consecration Ceremony (Kumbhabhishegam) of the Sri Senpaga Vinayagar Temple, which is scheduled for 2027.
This sacred event occurs once every 12 years, and the funds raised will be used for renovations within the temple, including the restoration of the temple’s ‘gopuram’ (pinnacles) and the surrounding buildings. These funds will also contribute to the upkeep of essential spaces within the temple, such as the Wedding Hall, Sunday School, Music and Dance Academy, and accommodation for temple staff.
The Kumbhabhishegam ceremony is a significant religious practice that ensures the continued sanctity and longevity of the temple, securing its place as a spiritual and cultural landmark for future generations.
A rich legacy
The story of the Sri Senpaga Vinayagar Temple dates back to the 1850s when a statue of Lord Vinayagar was discovered near a pond, under a Senpaga tree.
This discovery marked the beginnings of the temple, which was first established by the pioneering Ceylon Tamil, Ethirnayagam Pillai.
The modest structure that was built with the help of Indian workers later became the place of worship that we know today. In 1923, the Singapore Ceylon Tamils’ Association officially took on the role of managing the temple, and since then, it has been central to the community’s religious and cultural activities.
Apart from its religious functions, the temple also hosts a well-established Music and Dance Academy that offers Carnatic music classes, Bharatanatyam dance, and lessons in instruments like violin, keyboard, tabla, and mridangam. These activities continue to bring together the larger diaspora of Singaporeans, enriching the nation’s cultural fabric.
