Page 27 - Fiji Traveller 7

By Prerna Priyanka
Culinary delights at Saravana Bhavan
At the meeting point of Nadi’s busiest roads lies a sanctuary of Adjacent to the temple lies Saravana Bhavan Restaurant,
spiritual grandeur and culinary delights, the Sri Siva Subramaniya which is well-known for its all-vegetarian, authentic South Indian
Hindu Temple and Saravana Bhavan Restaurant. cuisine.
The Sri Siva Subramaniya Hindu Temple stands as a testament With dishes ranging from crispy dosas to delicious curries,
to the rich heritage and devotion of the Indo-Fijian community. the restaurant provides a culinary experience inspired by India's
As the largest Hindu temple in the Southern hemisphere, its streets.
towering presence and intricate carvings draw visitors from far "The food here is simply amazing," exclaims Viraj Parmar, a
and wide. satisfied diner hailing from India.
Before its current form, the site housed a smaller temple, a “Food here tastes just like home-cooked Hindustani khana
humble place of worship for Hindus. (Indian meal). It's a good spot, making it perfect after a visit to
The temple's growth mirrors the route of the Indo-Fijian the temple.”
population, and it was formally consecrated on July 15, 1994,
with proper rituals. Embracing tradition
The central temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan, the Hindu While the temple and restaurant welcome visitors, there are
God of seasonal rains, featuring a large and impressive sculpture. guidelines to be observed out of respect for Hindu customs.
Other temples within the complex pay homage to Lord Shiva, Visitors are asked to dress modestly, covering their legs
Hinduism's supreme god, and Lord Ganesh, the iconic elephant- and shoulders, and to remove their shoes before entering the
headed deity. temple.
Photography within the temple premises is prohibited, allowing
Architectural marvel and spiritual retreat worshippers to maintain the sanctity of their spiritual practices.
In an area known for vibrant hues, from colourful farm homes "We welcome visitors from all walks of life, but we ask that
to the many shades of green of its cane farms and the Sabeto they honour our customs and traditions," explains Shiva Naidu,
hills, the temple's vibrancy stands apart. Dravidian architecture, a temple volunteer.
characterised by pyramid-shaped towers, dominates the "Respecting the sacred space of the temple ensures that all
complex. who enter can experience its profound energy and find inner
The interior is equally captivating, featuring intricate carvings peace."
and paintings of Hindu gods that depict tales of Hindu mythology Visitors are also asked to enter only if they have abstained
and devotion. from consuming meat on the day of their visit.
Upon entering the temple, visitors are enveloped in a sense of A guided tour, available for a small fee of FJ$5, provides
peace and reverence. The fragrance of incense wafts through the insights into the intricate details of the temple's architecture and
air as soothing chants echo softly. the stories behind its various structures.
Devotees offer prayers and seek blessings, immersed in the The tour runs every half-hour between 8:30am and 3:00pm.
divine aura of the temple. It can get busy on main festivals and Whether seeking solace in the temple's sacred halls or
you will often observe families consulting priests on the setting of savouring the flavours of South India at the restaurant, one thing
wedding dates and other spiritual matters. is certain – the Sri Siva Subramaniya Hindu Temple stands as
"It's a place where I find solace and connection to my roots," a beacon of tradition, unity, and nourishment for the body and
says Kajal Kumar, a devout follower who frequents the temple. soul alike.
"The carvings and quiet atmosphere transport me to another
world, where I can worship with a peaceful mind."

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