tribute to leadership and service - Sri Sivan Temple :: Singapore

TRIBUTE TO LEADERSHIP AND SERVICE
Mr R Jayachandran has served as Chairman of Sri Sivan Temple ("SST" or "Temple") from July 2007
to Jun 2012.
During his tenure, the last Maha Kumbabishegam of SST (27 January 2008) occurred. He assumed
the chairmanship unexpectedly only 6 months before the event and raised the sum (approximately
$6million) needed for the completion of the works and the auspicious event.
Jaya, as he is known to some or simply as "Chairman", raised the standards of SST to the next level.
Management was not left to linger "as is". Changes, in the nature of improvements, occurred
progressively. Some of these are:
1. Web launch which includes computerization of bookings for temple events and receipts for
archanas;
2. Upgrading of the kitchen including dedicated area and utensils for swami neyvaithium items;
3. Training of kitchen staff and mechanization of some of the processes;
4. Re-tiling works;
5. Improvements to athmalingam area including installation of water feature;
6. Community health programmes such as homeopathy lead by Dr Rengarchari and upon his
recent demise, by Dr Malathi, and counselling services by trained counsellor (Dr Nita);
7. Religious discourses by renowned swamijis like Swami Omkarananda; and
8. Monthly Ekadasa Rudram and annual Maha Rudram recitations with the support of the
Brahmana Sabha.

TRIBUTE TO LEADERSHIP AND SERVICE
Mr Jayachandran's leadership style was that of a corporate leader. He was his natural self, leading
with authority but with humility, always results oriented. No task assumed was therefore left to
linger or die a natural death. The bull (not the Nandi) was always caught by its horns and steered in
the right direction. This same approach was taken for handling any problem whether with devotee,
staff, volunteers or committee. A firm but fair hand was always extended. A full and frank
approach was always taken. Where a legitimate grievance of a devotee came up a swift solution was
administered to the satisfaction of the devotee.
At meetings, a message imparting a philosophy, or a lesson was the starting point before the business
on the Agenda commenced. Punctuality was an expectation which he led by example. A sense of
punctuality was applied not just to meetings but also Temple events. No event which needed his
presence was delayed. He was always there with his wife Dr Lakshmi ahead of time and
appropriately dressed in veshti and jibha when the occasion called for it.
The conclusion of every major event was swiftly followed by debriefing notes, on which committee
members were invited to comment following the event and these formed the basis for improvements
for the next similar event.
Empowerment of others to assume responsibilities and consultation (whether of committee
members or the chief priest or the chief cook), was his style.

TRIBUTE TO LEADERSHIP AND SERVICE
Mr Jayachandran is a spiritual person and adhering to the Aghamas for Temple procedures and rites
is taken very seriously. Where there is any wrongdoing (even killing cockroaches and rats to keep
the Temple free of pests) a parikaram is done.
In his tenure high standards for cultural events were established. Top guest artists both local and
foreign were selected to perform at the 48-day Mandalabishegam following the Maha
Kumbabishegam and at every Maha Sivarathri thereafter by private sponsorship without any cost to
the Temple. Devotee satisfaction, needless to say, was achieved.
In the arena of community involvement at the Temple's signature event, namely Maha Sivarathri, a
cross-section of the community leaders whether Hindu or otherwise were invited.
Most of all, his philanthropy – anonymously extended, has uplifted SST in many respects and
deserves special mention.
Mr Jayachandran was supported by a team who understood the direction. Whilst each contributed
in his or her own way special mention must be made especially of Mrs Rhama Sankaran. Rhama
had served in the committee of SST since 2008. Her dedication, artistic attributes, knowledge,
generosity (both financially as well as of her time) and support of volunteers and staff (from Temple
helpers to priests) in every endeavour has etched her as an example of what service at SST means.

TRIBUTE TO LEADERSHIP AND SERVICE
The success of the cultural events during the 48 day Mandalalabishegam in 2008 and every Maha
Sivarathri is in great measure due to the efforts of Rhama and her team. In 2011 Rhama was given
an Achievement Award by the Hindu Endowments Board in recognition of her contributions.
The Temple staff, volunteers and the committee members convey their deep appreciation to Mr
Jayachandran and Dr. Lakshmi as well as to every member of the past committee particularly Mr A
Arasappan, Mr S Malaiappan, Mrs Rhama Sankaran, Mr Kartik Jalal, Mr Ashok Srinivasan, Mrs
Gauri Gupta, Mr R Arunachalam and Mr G Sivakumar for all their support and assistance. It is
the current management committee's fervent hope that Mr Jayachandran and Dr Lakshmi as well as
past committee members who are no longer in the Temple’s service will continue to give their
invaluable guidance and support to the Temple.”