Sri Maran Marathandavar Temple, Maran

The name of the temple literally means crossing the tree.

I am made to understand that about 120 years ago, a road was being built from Kuala Lumpur to Kuantan. Many trees were sacrificed during this process. However, as one particular rudraksha tree was being cut, it began to bleed. Immediately work stopped and one of the Hindu workers went into a trance, declaring that the tree should be spared. 

The British supervisor who was entrusted with the construction of the road refused this request. Miraculously, a child appeared at the trunk of the tree and disappeared back into this tree. Thus, the tree was spared.    

A Murugan devotee planted a Vel at the base of the tree. It became a sacred tree and Hindu workers started praying at that shrine.

The said tree is now dead. But the remains of the tree are preserved in inner sanctum of the temple. 

Rudraksha is identified as the eye of Lord Shiva. Rudra denotes Lord Shiva and Aksha indicates eye. This divine bead is the ultimate holy talisman. It transforms negative energy into positive energy. Rudraksha beads have been worn by the yogis of India for thousands of years to maintain health and to gain spiritual empowerment.

In 1998, a new temple was built incorporating the features of the rudraksha tree. The inner sanctum has a beautiful silver layering resembling the original rudraksha tree.

Another huge tree is now a focal point. 

Devotees pledge their requests by placing a stone, coin or a lime on a yellow cloth and tie the cloth onto the tree before, humbly uttering a prayer. If the request is fulfilled, the devotees vow must be fulfilled.

Located at 100 km, Jalan Kuantan - Jerantut, 26500 Maran, Pahang. Tel: 09-4778043, 09-4778050. 

Thousands of devotees come to the temple each year during the Pangguni Uthiram ceremony to do prayers and carry kavadi. 

The Majestic temple

 

Main entrance

A priest ringing the temple bell, signifies prayers are on going

I do not know the name of the majestic tree but this is the focal point for the temple

 

A neem tree on the premise 

Peacocks in the premise

 

Hair Shaving Hall. Presumably, this occurs during Thaipusam

The surrounding walls, beautifully crafted

 

One of the side entrance, initially one wonders what is the significance of the peacock, only upon entering that you realize that there are live peacocks

The beautiful scenery surrounding the Temple