The Malaysia Saiva Samaya Peravai was founded in 2011, with its inaugural function taking place on August 14, 2011, at the Sitthi Vinayagar Temple Hall in Petaling Jaya. The organization was established to revitalize the practice of Saivism within the Malaysian Indian community. Over time, the transmission of spiritual knowledge to the next generation had diminished, and many followed religious practices without understanding their deeper significance. The Malaysia Saiva Samaya Peravai aims to bridge this gap by sharing comprehensive knowledge and insights into Saivism and spiritual practices. The association was founded by Dr. Nagappan Arumugam and was inaugurated by Guru Sivapragasa Desiga Paramaachaari Swami, the 23rd Guru Maha Sannithanam of Thiruvavaduthurai Adheenam.
Dr. Nagappan Arumugam is academically well-versed in Saiva Siddhanta. He earned his bachelor’s degree from the Department of Indian Studies at the University of Malaya, where he studied Bhakti Literature. His master’s degree was obtained from Madurai University, specializing in Saiva Siddhanta. He further pursued his academic interests by completing a Ph.D. in Saiva Siddhanta at Manonmaniam Sundaranar University in Tirunelveli. Dr. Nagappan has dedicated himself to sharing his extensive knowledge of Saivism with his students, contributing significantly to the growth and development of the Malaysia Saiva Samaya Peravai.
Over the years, the Malaysia Saiva Samaya Peravai has been at the forefront of promoting and practicing Saivism through a range of regular activities. The organisation conducts weekly Saiva Siddhanta classes, catering to a diverse age group ranging from 18 to 85 years old. Saiva Siddhanta, a core philosophy of Saivism, is taught in these classes to both children and adults, fostering a deeper understanding of the spiritual teachings. In response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the association by offering virtual classes, ensuring that learning could continue uninterrupted. These online classes have become a valuable addition, allowing participants from various locations to engage with Saiva Siddhanta teachings.
Each month, the organization publishes a magazine titled ‘Sivanarul.’ This publication is a rich source of information, featuring articles and stories about religious practices and Saivism, helping to keep the community informed and connected. Additionally, the association organizes annual religious camps for children aged 7 to 18. These camps provide a space for young minds to explore and deepen their understanding of Saivism in an engaging and supportive environment.
Every two years, the organisation hosts an international conference that brings together delegates from around the world. This conference serves as a platform for presenting research and discussions on various aspects of Saivism, further enhancing the global exchange of knowledge and ideas. Through these diverse activities, the Malaysia Saiva Samaya Peravai continues to play a crucial role in preserving and promoting the rich heritage of Saivism within the Malaysian Indian community and beyond.
The organization has established a co-organization called the “Yayasan Falsafah dan Institusi Saiva” (Saiva Foundation). This foundation is set to achieve a significant milestone by constructing Malaysia’s first Saiva-Hindu Education Academy. The project will include a lord Shiva temple designed according to Saiva Agamas, a multi-purpose auditorium, a wedding hall, and a meditation hall. Additionally, there will be three small huts specifically built for individual meditation, providing a serene and conducive environment for reflection.
In 2017, the foundation acquired 7.5 acres of land in Mukim Kerling, near the Arulmigu Sri Subramaniar Temple, at a cost of RM 1.8 million. This land purchase was fully funded by Saiva Siddhanta students of the organization. The foundation envisions that, once completed, this project will become a premier center of Saivism globally. The necessary permissions for the construction have been granted by the government and relevant departments, paving the way for this ambitious endeavor.
The objective of this project is not only to provide Malaysian Hindus with a deeper religious and spiritual understanding but also to emphasize and reform their religious and spiritual practices for the betterment and upliftment of their lives. The foundation is dedicated to establishing this educational institution to train qualified teachers who can educate and enlighten the community with proper spiritual knowledge.
“A religious or spiritual teacher also should have received formal education and qualification in order to educate the community like how a primary school teacher has to complete SPM examination and qualify for teachers training college and get trained there for 5 years before stepping into the primary school as a teacher,” says Dr Nagappan.
This educational institution is not just for acquiring spiritual knowledge but also for training and establishing qualified teachers who can educate and serve the community. Therefore, this institution will provide properly educated religious or spiritual teachers to the community. Spiritual and religious knowledge and wisdom are important for everyone in the community. It is essential to understand the proper way of performing spiritual and traditional rituals and the reasons behind these practices. This academy will offer an excellent opportunity for today’s young generation to equip themselves with religious and spiritual knowledge and share it with the community.
The programs of the academy will be designed to cater to and accommodate full-time students, who will study for three years at the institution. Students must have an SPM qualification to enroll. The institution will offer programs and training in Saiva Agamas, Saiva Siddhanta Saathiram, Thirumurai, Thirumurai Pannisai, proficiency in the use of traditional Tamil musical instruments, dance, and drama. Alongside Saiva Siddhanta education, the academy will also provide courses in contemporary fields of study such as Finance, Communication, and advanced language programs in Tamil, Malay, and English. This multidisciplinary approach will help students assist in the future management of the institution.
Additionally, the academy will offer practical programs in organic and natural-based agriculture and martial arts. The course fee and hostel accommodations are entirely free, with no charges for students. The syllabus is the same for every student, encompassing all the subjects mentioned above. This comprehensive curriculum ensures that every student receives a well-rounded education.
The educational academy will include classrooms, libraries, lecture halls, research halls, sports facilities, a canteen, and all the necessary amenities a university should have. Currently, the foundation is awaiting approval to begin construction. Once approval is granted, construction will commence. In addition to the Saiva education college, there will be a Shivan temple and a multipurpose auditorium. The temple will serve as a center for imparting knowledge related to Saivism, fostering a deeper understanding and passion for Saivism through various activities and events.
Moreover, the auditorium, with a seating capacity of 1,500, will host international events such as Saiva conferences. External events that align with the Foundation’s objectives will also be permitted, fostering relationships within the community. The total cost to build the Saiva education college, temple, and auditorium is approximately RM 40,000,000.
To date, the foundation has not requested any contributions from the public. The land was purchased using funds provided by the Saiva Siddhanta students from the association. However, to complete the entire project, the foundation is seeking financial assistance from the public. Public contributions would be immensely helpful. Recently, they initiated crowdfunding efforts during several events. However, Dr. Nagappan noted that, based on community response, there are not many individuals willing to contribute financially to this noble initiative.
“With increased support from the Indian community, this project could gain greater value and develop more effectively. Their support will not only facilitate the construction and completion of the academy but also ensure that it becomes a vibrant center for spiritual and educational advancement.
Our Saiva Foundation is committed to providing this knowledge and shaping the future generation with wisdom and a deep understanding of spiritual and ritual practices. With the support of the community, we can grow and bring this noble initiative to fruition. This initiative is designed to benefit our Indian community,” he said.
Religious and spiritual knowledge is essential for everyone, as it provides guidance that leads us toward personal growth and the right path. Therefore, this Hindu education institution is much needed for the Malaysian Indian community. There is a Tamil saying that means “Education and Religion should be given equal importance, like our two eyes.” This proverb is coming to life now. The efforts of the Malaysia Saiva Foundation are commendable and will greatly benefit society by shaping the future generation in the right way.
This institution for tertiary education should be successfully established. Those who wish to support the progress and realization of this institution can contribute funds to assist in building this project. Funding is crucial for this endeavor. If you wish to contribute, please transfer your donation to the account number provided below. Your support will make a significant difference in bringing this noble initiative to fruition. Please contact Dr Nagappan at 0169691090 for further information on this.
Account number: 3208616019
Account name: Yayasan Falsafah dan Institusi Saiva
Bank: Public Bank Berhad
(Kindly please send the receipt to Ms Anita at 012-5393915)
All the information provided by Dr Nagappan, President of Saiva Foundation.
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