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Nestled in the verdant hills of Kandy, Sri Lanka, stands the resplendent Sri Dalada Maligawa, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. More than just a place of worship, this iconic temple is a living testament to Sri Lanka's rich cultural and religious heritage, drawing devotees and visitors from across the globe. Its history, architecture, rituals, and the vibrant Esala Perahera festival all weave together a captivating narrative that has shaped the island's identity for centuries.
A Journey Through Time: The History of the Sacred Tooth Relic and its Abode
The story of Sri Dalada Maligawa is inextricably linked to the sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha. Legend narrates that when Buddha was cremated in Kushinara, India, in 543 BCE, his left canine tooth was retrieved from the funeral pyre by his disciple, Khema. This precious relic was then entrusted to King Brahmadatte for veneration.
A significant belief emerged: whoever possessed the Tooth Relic held the divine right to rule. This belief led to periods of conflict and the eventual journey of the relic to Sri Lanka in the 4th century CE. Princess Hemamali and Prince Dantha, disguised as ascetics, bravely smuggled the relic hidden within the princess's hair to protect it from warring factions in India. They arrived in Sri Lanka during the reign of King Kirthi Sri Meghavarna, who received them with great reverence and enshrined the relic in Anuradhapura.
Throughout the centuries, the Tooth Relic became the palladium of the Sinhalese kings. Its custodianship symbolized the sovereignty of the island, leading monarchs to build temples in close proximity to their royal residences. The relic travelled through various capitals, including Polonnaruwa, Dambadeniya, Kotte, and finally, Kandy.
The first temple dedicated to the Tooth Relic in Kandy was constructed around 1600 by King Vimaladharmasuriya I. However, this and subsequent structures faced destruction during foreign invasions. The present-day Sri Dalada Maligawa was largely built during the reign of King Kirthi Sri Rajasinghe in the 18th century. Over time, additions and renovations were made by later rulers, contributing to the temple's unique architectural blend. Despite facing threats, including a bombing in 1998, the temple has been meticulously restored, standing strong as a symbol of resilience and faith.
Architectural Grandeur: A Symphony of Styles
Sri Dalada Maligawa stands as an architectural marvel, showcasing a harmonious blend of traditional Kandyan, South Indian, and Indo-Aryan styles. The temple complex is a series of interconnected structures, each serving a distinct purpose in the rituals and ceremonies associated with the sacred relic.
The main shrine, a two-story edifice with a golden roof, houses the inner sanctum where the Tooth Relic is kept in a series of seven nested golden caskets, each studded with precious stones. The entrance to the shrine is adorned with intricately carved silver doors and a stone doorway embellished with vibrant hues.
The ground floor is encircled by a veranda supported by stone pillars adorned with exquisite carvings and paintings. A richly painted wooden canopy covers the veranda, its ceiling beams depicting the legendary journey of the Tooth Relic to Sri Lanka and its significance as a royal insignia. Wall paintings on either side of the shrine showcase ornamental motifs, figures, and symbolic animals, adding to the temple's artistic richness.
Within the complex, the Audience Hall (Magul Maduwa) stands as a testament to the Kandyan kingdom's royal grandeur. Its intricately carved wooden pillars and impressive structure once served as a venue for royal ceremonies and state functions. Today, it continues to be used for special events.
The octagonal Paththirippuwa, initially conceived as a place for royal audiences, was later transformed into the temple's library during the reign of King Sri Vikrama Rajasinha. It now houses a valuable collection of palm-leaf manuscripts, preserving ancient knowledge and traditions.
The temple's location offers a panoramic view of the serene Kandy Lake and the surrounding verdant hills, creating a picturesque backdrop that enhances the spiritual ambiance. The meticulous craftsmanship evident in every corner of Sri Dalada Maligawa speaks volumes about the devotion and artistic skills of the artisans who contributed to its creation.
The Sacred Presence: Rituals and Ceremonies
The Sri Dalada Maligawa is a hub of daily, weekly, and annual rituals dedicated to the sacred Tooth Relic. These ceremonies, steeped in tradition, are conducted by the monks of the Malwatte and Asgiriya chapters in a rotational system, carrying forward practices that have evolved over centuries.
Daily rituals (Theva) are performed three times a day – at dawn, noon, and dusk. These services involve the beating of Hewisi drums, the opening of the silver and golden doors of the inner shrine, and the offering of jasmine flowers (Saman Pichcha) and other tributes with deep reverence, mirroring the devotion once offered to the living Buddha.
A unique weekly ritual, the Nanumura Mangallaya, takes place on Wednesdays. This symbolic bathing of the sacred relic involves a herbal preparation made from scented water and fragrant flowers. The holy water, believed to possess healing powers, is distributed among the devotees present, signifying blessings and purification.
The annual Kandy Esala Perahera, held in July and August, is the most spectacular and significant event associated with Sri Dalada Maligawa. This grand procession, a fusion of the Esala and Dalada Peraheras, is a vibrant spectacle of traditional dances, drumming, fire dancers, whip crackers, and elaborately adorned elephants. The perahera pays homage to the Tooth Relic, which is carried in a magnificent casket atop a majestic tusker, parading through the streets of Kandy. This cultural extravaganza attracts thousands of spectators, both local and international, and is a powerful expression of Sri Lankan Buddhist culture.
A Cultural Cornerstone: Significance and Impact
The Sri Dalada Maligawa holds profound cultural and religious significance for Sri Lanka. It is considered the most sacred Buddhist site on the island and a major pilgrimage destination for Buddhists worldwide. The presence of the Tooth Relic has historically been intertwined with the legitimacy of Sri Lankan rulers, making the temple a crucial center of power and identity.
Beyond its religious importance, the temple is a repository of Sri Lankan art, architecture, and traditions. The intricate carvings, paintings, and the grandeur of the Esala Perahera showcase the island's rich artistic and cultural heritage. The temple's museum houses a collection of historical artifacts, further preserving and narrating its storied past.
The Sri Dalada Maligawa and the city of Kandy were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988, recognizing their outstanding universal value as a cultural landscape shaped by Buddhist traditions and the Kandyan kingdom. This recognition has further elevated the temple's global significance and underscores the importance of its preservation.
The temple continues to be a vibrant center of religious life, drawing devotees for daily worship and blessings. It also plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting Sri Lankan culture through its rituals, festivals, and artistic expressions. The Sri Dalada Maligawa stands not only as a sacred sanctuary but also as a powerful symbol of Sri Lankan identity, resilience, and enduring faith.
Visiting the Sacred Grounds
For those wishing to experience the spiritual aura and cultural richness of Sri Dalada Maligawa, certain guidelines ensure a respectful visit. Modest attire, covering shoulders and knees, is required. Footwear must be removed before entering the temple premises. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early to avoid crowds and to witness the morning rituals. Purchasing a lotus flower at the entrance to offer as a mark of respect is a common practice. Exploring the main shrine, the museum, and if possible, attending a Puja ceremony offers a deeper understanding of the temple's significance. Observing the intricate architecture and Kandyan craftsmanship is an integral part of the visit.
In conclusion, Sri Dalada Maligawa is more than just a temple; it is the spiritual heart of Sri Lanka, a repository of history and culture, and a beacon of faith that continues to inspire and captivate all who visit its sacred grounds. Its story, etched in time and tradition, resonates deeply within the Sri Lankan psyche and continues to draw admiration from around the world.
