19/10/2025

NATIONAL 6 theSun on Sunday OCT 19, 2025

Giving up corporate lure to answer divine calling

JOHOR BAHRU: As Deepavali nears, the dazzling glass mosaics of the Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple once again light up Johor Bahru, casting a glow of serenity and wonder over visitors from all walks of life. Founded in 1922, the temple has long stood as both a sacred space and a cultural landmark, renowned for its intricate architecture and message of unity. Its walls, ceilings and floors are adorned with nearly 300,000 pieces of coloured glass – a feature that earned it a place in the Malaysia Book of Records in 2010 as the nation’s first glass temple. Behind its splendour is 26-year-old S. Maheshwara, a top student who scored 10As in his SPM and graduated with a degree in Finance and Business Management from the University of Reading Malaysia. Despite receiving several corporate job offers, including in Singapore, Maheshwara chose an unexpected path – to continue his family’s three-generation legacy at the temple. “There was an invisible hand that seemed to pull me back to this temple. I knew this was my life path,” he said. Now serving as temple treasurer and coordinator for its many affairs, Maheshwara views his decision as an act of faith and service. “Some may see my choice as irrational. But for me, this is the most meaningful way to contribute. I am not doing this for money, this is my form of worship,” he said. The temple, led by his father S. Sinnathamby, recently underwent a RM2 million restoration, completed in March last year after a two-year delay due to the pandemic, Bernama reported.

Top graduate declines job offers to continue family legacy to serve and coordinate affairs at country’s first glass temple The extensive work included rebuilding the gopuram (temple tower) and replacing 90% of its glass mosaics with new materials imported from Thailand and China. “Each piece of glass holds its own unique significance,” said Sinnathamby, describing the meticulous process that often required the team to work late into the night. With Deepavali being celebrated tomorrow, preparations are in full swing to welcome thousands of devotees. The temple will serve free vegetarian meals to visitors regardless of race or religion. “The light of Deepavali doesn’t just come from lamps or glass. It comes from the compassion, values and unity we build together,” Maheshwara said.

Maheshwara said it is his life path to serve at the temple, which is renowned for its intricate architecture and message of unity. – BERNAMAPIC