Buzz
The Mariamman Temple, also commonly known as the Bà Ấn Temple, is situated right in the center of Saigon. With its unique Hindu architecture, the Bà Ấn Temple attracts numerous tourists and locals daily for sightseeing and prayer.
Bà Ấn Temple in Saigon – a tourist destination in Saigon (Photo by ST)
Address of the Bà Ấn Temple
- Located at 45 Trương Định Street, District 1, near Ben Thanh Market.
- Click here for directions
The Name of Bà Ấn Temple
Why such a name? Because it's an Indian temple, dedicated to an Indian goddess, hence the familiar name.
Bà Ấn Temple is essentially a Hindu temple of Indian origin, dedicated to a deity named Mariamman. Legend has it that Mariamman brings abundant harvests and fertile land to the people. Additionally, Indians believe that she also brings warmth, happiness, which is why this temple is always bustling with visitors. It's one of the three Hindu temples in downtown Saigon, and Bà Ấn Temple attracts more tourists than any other.
Architectural charm of Bà Ấn Temple (Photo by ST)
Hindu-inspired Architecture
The temple was constructed in the early 20th century when a large portion of the Indian immigrant population settled in Saigon and resided near the temple area up to this day.
The architecture of Bà Ấn Temple is designed in a U-shape, reflecting Hindu influences. The temple consists of the main hall dedicated to the deity Mariamman, flanked by two guardians, Maduraiveeran (on the left) and Pechiamman (on the right). Along the walls run statues of 18 deities with different postures, symbolizing the 18 wishes of the people.
Main sanctuary of Bà Ấn Temple (Photo by ST)
Statues of 18 deities along the temple wall (Photo by ST)
According to legend, Mariamman is the goddess of disease and rain in southern India, reigning in the rural state of Tamil Nadu. She is depicted as a young, beautiful woman with a fierce red face and attire, adorned with multiple arms symbolizing various powers, although sometimes she only has two or four arms. She is often depicted in a sitting or standing posture, with one hand holding a trident and another hand offering a bowl of rice.
Especially, twice daily, ritualistic fire offerings to Mariamman and the deities are conducted at 10 AM and 7 PM. According to beliefs, attendees receive blessings and divine fire from the ritual. This ceremony is attended by many people every day.
Local residents often come to worship at the temple (Photo by ST)
With its unique Hindu-inspired architecture, the temple attracts not only the Indian diaspora but also Vietnamese locals who frequently visit for prayers and to admire the distinctive architecture.
