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Part of Little Burma
Lorong Burma, Penang Phone: Not AvailableAbout
The ornate gilded roof of this 200 year old temple beckons as one walks down Burma Lane; past hawker staffs selling food and souvenir stalls selling tacky knick-knacks. A pair of stone elephants at the entrance serve as silent reminders of the sanctity within. Mythical figures and religious icons dot the spacious and well-kept compound inside - among them, bell-bearing acolytes, myriad buddhas, chimeras and flying beings. Two huge and imposing-looking chi lings (a fabulous being that is a hybrid of a dragon, horse and a lion) flank the entrance to the main prayer hall. Chi lings are traditionally used in feng shui to deflect evil.Next to an unused 200 year-old well is a huge man-made water catchment filled with carps. Buddha statues in different meditative poses nestle in grottos marked with the names of individual donors. A pair of winged chimeras called Panca Rupa look resplendent in the roles as "Guardian Protectors of the World."
There is a nice huge mural depicting the Great Renunciation of Prince Siddharta (see picture). The future Buddha is 'captured' riding his steed Kanthaka in mid-air with his faithful servant Channa seemingly hanging on for dear life. Evil beings on one side try to discourage him from his noble quest while the good ones on the other side welcome him with open arms. It's all done very tastefully.
