Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, Singapore

Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple in Singapore’s Little India is believed to be the country’s first Hindu temple dedicated to Veeramakaliamman, a form of the goddess Kali. Tamil workers associated with the nearby lime kilns established a shrine at the site as early as 1855. The temple was originally known as Soonambu Kambam Kovil, meaning “temple at the village of lime.” A temple building followed in 1881, and the complex was restored and expanded during the early 20th century.

The temple became an important place of worship and community support for Singapore’s early Indian migrant population. Kali is revered here as a powerful protector who destroys evil and ignorance and preserves cosmic order. The temple’s entrance tower and exterior are densely decorated with brightly painted sculptures of Hindu deities and mythological figures.

Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple remains an active place of worship and a conserved historic building on Serangoon Road.