Have you heard about the London Murugan Temple, formally known as Sri Subramaniya Swami Devasthanam, in Sungai Petani, Kedah? This sacred temple holds a beautiful and unique history that continues to inspire devotees even today.

The temple was founded in 1914 by Sri Annaasamy Pillai, a devoted soul whose vision eventually blossomed into one of Kedah’s most cherished spiritual landmarks. What surprises many devotees is the story behind the name “London Murugan.” The Murugan statue was originally meant to be sent to London, but in a divine turn of events, Lord Murugan chose to remain in Kedah. Devotees believe it was His will to bless this land and its people.

The temple stands on the grounds of what was once a Magistrate Court. In 1918, Sri Annaasamy Pillai acquired the land from the government with the intention of building a temple dedicated to Lord Subramaniyar. The first Maha Kumbabishegam was performed in 1924, and by 1936 the temple had been beautifully expanded into the form we recognise today.

The second Maha Kumbabishegam took place in 1997. Today, the temple’s majestic Raja Gopuram greets devotees with its towering presence, flanked by two awe-inspiring Vels at the entrance. Interestingly, the main sanctum once served as the judge’s chamber during the court era and now stands transformed into a space of divine grace where countless devotees find peace through Lord Subramaniyar’s blessings.

Lord Subramaniyar here is worshipped in the ‘Andi’ (renunciate) form, a form through which He is believed to occasionally guide devotees. One well-known story speaks of a local rowdy who dreamt of Lord Murugan advising him to change his ways. Touched by this divine calling, he began visiting the temple daily. Over time, his life transformed completely, he left behind his old ways and became a humble and respected man. Stories like this continue to inspire devotees who believe strongly in the Lord’s compassion and ability to guide those who seek Him with sincerity.

The statue of Lord Subramaniyar, originally sculpted in India and intended for London, ultimately found its destined home here. Because of this divine turn of events, the temple affectionately earned the name “London Muruga.” Over the years, many revered saints and scholars including Thiru Muruga Kirubananda Variyar, Kavignar Kannadasan, Sri Madurai Adheenam, and Sri Pitchai Gurukkal have visited the temple and experienced its profound spiritual vibration.

Image Credit : Sri Subramaniya Swami Devasthanam / Jegatheesvaran Easparan