The Shree Gangatharan Shiva Peruman Temple Building Committee is excited to share that we are in the midst of a historic endeavor to construct the largest Shiva Temple in Malaysia, right here in Butterworth, Penang.
Sakti Foundation has joined hands with Shree Gangatharan Shiva Peruman Temple to carry out the Temple Building Project. This collaboration aims to ensure the successful construction of a spiritual sanctuary that will stand as a testament to our devotion for generations to come.
The Lord Shiva Temple in Butterworth, Penang, was founded in 1970 by Late Mr. Goh Poh Chai, who was inspired to establish the temple following a divine vision from Lord Shiva in a dream. Driven by this spiritual encounter, Late Mr. Goh dedicated a portion of his own home to create a space for worship, where he personally led prayers, including the annual Maha Shivaratri festival.
Late Mr. Goh's vision was supported by three close associates: Mr. P. Sivakumar, who now serves as the temple's chairman, along with Mr. M. Meiyappan and Mr. J. Ellapan. Together, they laid the groundwork for the temple's early development and played key roles in its operations. After Late Mr. Goh's passing in 1987, his wife entrusted the temple to a committee before moving to Australia with their family, ensuring that his legacy would continue. Since then, the temple has been managed by this dedicated team.
In 2002, the temple celebrated a grand Kumbabhishegam (consecration) ceremony, symbolizing its growth and spiritual significance. In 2005, due to expansion needs, the temple was relocated to its current address at Jalan Siram, Kampung Siram, Butterworth, Pulau Pinang. Over the next two decades, the temple committee worked tirelessly to secure a permanent site, navigating numerous challenges along the way. Their efforts were rewarded when the Penang state government, through the Penang Hindu Endowment Board (PHEB) under the leadership of former chairman Professor P. Ramasamy, allocated a land parcel near Taman Bagan.
The committee has now embarked on an ambitious plan to construct a grand new temple at this site, ensuring that Lord Shiva's devotees in Butterworth will have a permanent and majestic place of worship for generations to come.
Our vision includes creating a magnificent fully granite sanctum dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Karpaga Ambigai, encircled by 108 Shiva Lingas, creating a powerful spiritual aura. Nestled serenely by the edge of the Perai River, this sacred temple embodies tranquility and devotion. It is believed that Lord Gangatharan Shiva Peruman divinely chose this holy site, where the temple will stand as a reflection of the sanctity of the Holy Ganges itself.
This divine temple will include the following features:
- Spacious Prayer Halls:
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Designed to accommodate worshippers for prayers and meditation, fostering inner peace and devotion.
- Cultural and Community Spaces:
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Purpose-built areas for hosting religious ceremonies and community events, promoting cultural enrichment and unity.
- Beautifully Landscaped Grounds:
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Meticulously designed to provide a serene atmosphere, enhancing the divine experience with lush greenery and sacred vibrations.
- Traditional Temple Craftsmanship:
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The construction process will include meticulous sculpting, piling, and earth-filling, ensuring the highest standards of authenticity and artistry.
- Four Majestic Gopurams:
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The temple will feature one towering Gopuram at 9 Nellai and three (3) additional Gopurams at 5 Nellai each, showcasing the magnificence of Dravidian architecture.
- Sacred Elements:
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The temple will include a granite Karuvarai (sanctum), a Kodimaram (flag post), ornately carved woodwork, pillars, and intricate tile designs, paying homage to traditional craftsmanship.
- Modern Infrastructure:
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Practical amenities such as wiring, lighting, plumbing, and painting will ensure functionality while preserving the temple’s sacred essence.
- Support Facilities:
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Essential facilities such as guard houses, clean toilet facilities, an Anathanam Mandapam for food distribution, a Ko-Salai Mandapam for ceremonial cooking, an administrative office, and a Madapalli (temple kitchen) will cater to the needs of devotees and visitors.
This iconic temple will not only be a center for worship but also a sanctuary for cultural preservation and spiritual enrichment. It will stand as a beacon of devotion, welcoming all who seek peace, blessings, and a connection with the divine.
We welcome you to join us for daily prayers, special poojas, and community events as we build towards a grander future.
