Devotees believe the divine truly resides here at the Newlands Sivan Temple. This temple stands as a testament to faith and architectural brilliance. Let’s delve into its story. The Newlands Sivan Temple’s origins trace back to 1896. The Narainsamy Family Trust proudly controls it.
Chris Kristapper Reddy designed and built this magnificent structure. His contribution to temple architecture in this region is significant. The Newlands Sivan Temple boasts a finely decorated spire. A prominent pyramidal dome adds to its grandeur. Construction of this dome spanned from 1906 to 1908.
Principal deities within the temple include Vishnu. Shiva is also worshipped here as is Ganesh. Soobramaniar is honored along with the Nauw Graha. In a significant moment, it was declared a National Monument on 17 August 1984. This recognition came under old NMC legislation.
Approaching the Newlands Sivan Temple, one immediately senses its importance. It is dedicated to Narainsamy who is Vishnu. Vishnu represents the second person of Siva. The pyramidal koroborum is a sight to behold. Two small domes flank it adding to the visual appeal. They rise high above the flat roof.
The temple exhibits both sculptural and architectural qualities. Walls are treated simply creating a serene backdrop. Stucco modeling and elaborate details adorn the steeple and domes. They rise from a classical pedestal. Above the main entrance, there is a decorative feature. Three arched panels form a short parapet. Two small stucco figures stand at either end. The flame motif of the arches is repeated in the spire’s decorations. This is a form of the mandala. Vishnu is associated with Surya the Sun God. These mandalas symbolize the path of the sun.
The koroborum stands approximately fifty-three feet high. Its stucco glistens in the sunshine. The first tier features a frieze. A wide overhanging cornice is supported by caryatid figures. Niches hold small modeled figures of deities. Above the frieze, two more storeys diminish in size. They showcase mandala motifs on all sides. The dome springs delicately from lotus petals. It terminates with a bell-like inverted lotus. This supports the sikhanta.
The fixing of the sikhanta is a special ceremony. It marks the climax of forty days of preparation. A Brahmin specially instructed in Hindu ritual performs it. Should the temple fall into disuse the sikhanta is removed. The sikhanta above the steeple is of gilded metal. It represents the Three Spheres. Two small domes resemble pieces of statuary. Quaint cows with one head and two bodies lie at the corners. This design echoes Babylonian palaces.
Inside the mandabulum four heavy square columns support the hall. They feature capitals and bases. Beams run the hall’s length supporting a flat concrete ceiling. Lotus themes decorate the ceiling. Small rosettes adorn the narrow frieze. The interior architecture is painted pure white. This creates an atmosphere of simplicity. Color is subtly introduced. The Newlands Sivan Temple has many interesting architectural details. Its freehand decoration gives it personality. One senses the builder’s personal expression. Studying the architecture reveals only one aspect of Hindu religious life. The temple building is its body. The Hindu temple expresses spiritual faith. It reflects Indian tradition.