Devotees showed up in droves, forming long queues outside the Sri Sivan Temple in Geylang, where they were blessed with holy water as flutes and drums blared in the background.

The ceremony marked the grand reopening of the temple, following a $5.5 million makeover that took two years to complete.

'This temple has been around since my grandmother's time,' said 69-year-old Madam Vimala Krishnan, a regular worshipper.

'It was a very emotional moment for me as my family has been involved with the temple for years.'

She was among the thousands of devotees, including Deputy Prime Minister and Law Minister S. Jayakumar, who watched as President SR Nathan unveiled a plaque commemorating the event.

During the two-year makeover, the entire temple was repainted to retain its unique design elements.

Skilled artisans from India, including a stapathi or chief sculptor, were brought in for sculptural and repainting works.

The temple boasts two new lifts, making access easier for the elderly and disabled.

Another floor has been added to the multi-purpose hall, which serves as an auditorium and meditation room.

The electrical and plumbing systems have also been renovated.

The Sri Sivan Temple, which first opened in the mid-19th century, is considered an architectural masterpiece.

It is the only Hindu temple in Singapore that fuses North and South Indian architecture.

Its three vimanams are also the tallest such towers found in Hindu temples here.

The ceremony yesterday was the sixth recorded consecration for the temple, which was previously located in Orchard Road and Serangoon Road before moving to its current home in Geylang East Avenue 2 in 1993.

In a written message, President Nathan paid tribute to all those who had been involved in the temple's renovation.

'They have worked tirelessly, raising and providing funds and devoting much time and effort,' he said.

Festivities will continue for the next 48 days as the temple hosts a range of performances by local and international classical singers, dancers and musicians.

The events run till March 15 and will take place outside the temple. The concerts are free and open to the public.