Wat Khaek Silom
Wat Sri Maha Uma Devi
(Wat Khaek Silom) Bangkok
Background
Wat Sri Maha Uma Devi was founded during the reign of King Rama IV by members of the Southern Indian community who immigrated originally to the South of Thailand and then moved to the SilomCanal. The temple was built as a place to worship Uma in accordance with Shaktism, one of the denominations of Hinduism, which has many followers. It is believed that the Devis, who are the consorts of Hindu gods, are the source of power for their husbands. The popular Devis are, for example, Uma, the consort of Shiva; Lakshmi, the consort of Vishnu, and Saraswati, the consort of Brahma.
In ancient texts that describe the Dashavatara (10 principal Avatars) of Vishnu, Uma was born after Vishnu and stroked his breast. In a Hindu text, she is the daughter of Himavan and the mother of Ganesha and Skanda. Uma is also Sniva’s shakti (power). Originally, the temple was a simple building with less decoration than it has today. There were only sculptures of the many Hindu deities. For example, the sculpture of Shiva was located in the corridor outside the temple. Inside the temple, housed the sculptures of Uma and her sons: Ganesha and Skanda.
Belief
Uma has both benevolent forms (Uma, Parvati) and wrathful aspects (Durga, Kali). In her wrathful avatars, Uma vanquishes Asuras (demons) and creates peace on Earth. In her benevolent form as Uma, she is the Goddess of Compassion and Elegance. She is popular among believers who seek her blessings, especially on love and fertility. Her offerings comprise flower garlands, young coconuts, and .bananas, which are available at the temple. If worshipers wish to bring their own offerings, make sure that there is no meat. Shoes are not allowed in the temple area. From her story, it shows that people have different sides: good and bad. If a person can control their bad side at all times and present only the good, he/she shall be loved by others.
How to get there
Wat Sri Maha Uma Devi or Wat Khaek Silom is located on Silom Road on the south bank of the Bangkok Yai Canal, -Silom District, Bangkok. Take bus no. 15, 77,147, 504, and 544. For further details, please contact Tel. 0 2238 4007
