Court Hill Sri Ganesar Temple (Kortumalai Vinayagar Temple)
Court Hill Sri Ganesar Temple, also known as Kortumalai Vinayagar Temple, is a significant Hindu temple located in the bustling district of Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Renowned for its rich history and vibrant cultural presence, the temple stands as a testament to the deep-rooted Hindu community in the region.
Historical Background:
Established in 1897, the temple’s origins trace back to an incident involving an Indian gardener employed by a British official named Wagner Durai. The gardener began a shrine dedicated to Lord Ganesha in an orchard, which gained popularity among locals. To announce auspicious timings for prayers, he installed a bell. This bell’s sound disturbed Wagner Durai, who threatened to demolish the shrine unless the bell was removed. Subsequently, Wagner Durai experienced paralysis. In a dream, the gardener was instructed by Lord Ganesha to perform a prayer and apply holy ash to Wagner’s limbs. Following this act, Wagner recovered, leading him to support the temple’s development a sloping ‘moona muchandi’ (three adjoining corners), enhancing its spiritual potency. It is the only temple globally that conducts the ‘sankha puja’ (conch shell ritual) twice daily, a practice initiated in 1939. This ritual involves bathing Lord Ganesha with holy water flowing spirally through a conch shell, believed to promote health, wealth, and happiness for participants.
Cultural Importance:
The temple’s name, “Court Hill Ganesar,” originates from its proximity to the former high court. Lawyers and clients would often pray here for favorable verdicts, contributing to the temple’s prominence. A notable feature is the ancient ‘vilvam’ (bael) tree within its premises. Devotees traditionally circumambulate this tree, stroking its bark before prostrating before Lord Ganesha, believing it enhances the ritual’s efficacy.
Festivals and Celebrations:
The temple is renowned for its grand Vinayagar Chaturthi celebrations, attracting numerous devotees. The festivities often include special prayers, a flag-raising ceremony, and a chariot procession where Lord Ganesha is paraded through Kuala Lumpur on a golden chariot, blessing devotees along the route.
Visiting Information:
Visitors are welcomed to experience the temple’s spiritual ambiance, participate in daily rituals, and witness the vibrant cultural practices that define this sacred space.
