Sockalingum Meenatchee Ammen Kovil
Shri Sockalingum Meenatchee Ammen Kovil in Port Louis, Mauritius Built in 1854
Shri Sockalingum Meenatchee Ammen Kovil, commonly known as Kaylasson, located on the northern outskirts of Port Louis, is the main religious building of Tamils of Hindu faith in Mauritius. This temple is dedicated to the god Shiva is one of the most impressive temples on the island. 🙏
National Heritage, it offers a real opportunity to discover Tamil culture in all its splendor; its finely worked statues, assorted colors and bas-reliefs bear witness to the dedication and know-how of artisans and other workers from India in 1854.
The Meenatchee Ammen Kovil is the main place of rituals and religious celebrations at Thaipoosam Cavadee – one of the most important Tamil festivals, commemorating the victory of Muruga, son of Shiva, over evil. The god carries a monthly celebration in his name but the most important celebration is that of the month of Thai (January – February), the Thaipoosam Cavadee. The feast is preceded by ten days of abstinence and fasting.
Construction of Shri Sockalingum Meenatchee Ammen Kovil:
It was in 1854, following the severe epidemic of cholera that hit the island, that Tamil traders and traders in Port Louis decided to erect a temple dedicated to the god Shiva. For the history, the engaged workers had in their contract a clause allowing them the free exercise of their religion and they thus constructed early enough places of prayers and temples in order to celebrate their worship, but especially in order to respect the doctrine of not not live in a place without a temple. Kovil Kaylasson was built in several stages. As early as 1854, when Indian craftsmen arrived, construction began. The temple and its arcades were consecrated in 1860. After the culmination of the vestibule, in 1868, the craftsmen returned to India.
Practical information on Shri Sockalingum Meenatchee Ammen Kovil
The instructions:
* Wear decent clothes when visiting.
* Respect the silence and the meditation of those present.
* Stay respectful of customs and rites at all times.
* It is customary to take off your sandals / shoes when entering this place of prayer.