Kandy, is a beautiful city located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka

Kandy (Mahanuwara), Sri Lanka

Kandy City & Temple of the Tooth

Mahanuwara, also known as Kandy, is a beautiful city located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka. It is the second-largest city in the country and is known for its rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and friendly people. One of the main attractions of Mahanuwara is the Dalada Maligawa, or the Temple of the Tooth, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most sacred Buddhist temples in the world. This article will explore the history, culture, and significance of Mahanuwara and the Dalada Maligawa.

History of Mahanuwara (Kandy)

Mahanuwara has a rich and diverse history that dates back to ancient times. According to legend, the city was founded by King Pandukabhaya in the 4th century BC. It served as the capital of the Sinhalese Kingdom of Kandy from the 16th century to the 19th century. During this time, the city was a center of power and culture, and it was known for its beautiful palaces, temples, and gardens.

The city also played an essential role in the colonial history of Sri Lanka. In the 16th century, the Portuguese conquered the coastal regions of Sri Lanka, but they could not capture Mahanuwara due to its location in the central highlands. In the 17th century, the Dutch managed to capture the city but could only hold on to it briefly. Finally, in the 19th century, the British managed to capture the town and establish their rule over the entire island.

Culture of Mahanuwara (Kandy)

Mahanuwara is a melting pot of different cultures and traditions. It is home to the Sinhalese, Tamil, Muslim, and Burgher communities, each with unique customs and traditions. The city is known for its vibrant festivals, including the Kandy Esala Perahera, one of the most famous festivals in Sri Lanka.

The Kandy Esala Perahera is a 10-day festival in July or August. It is a celebration of the tooth relic of the Buddha, which is housed in the Dalada Maligawa. Elephants, dancers, drummers, and flag bearers march through the city streets during the festival. It is a spectacular sight to behold, and it attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world.

The city is also known for its traditional arts and crafts, including weaving, pottery, and woodcarving. These crafts have been passed down from generation to generation and are essential to the city's cultural heritage. Visitors to Mahanuwara can visit local workshops and see these crafts made by skilled artisans.

Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Tooth)

The Dalada Maligawa, also known as the Temple of the Tooth, is one of the most sacred Buddhist temples in the world. It is located in Mahanuwara, also known as Kandy, in Sri Lanka. The temple houses the tooth relic of the Buddha, a symbol of the Buddha's enlightenment, and is revered by Buddhists worldwide. In this article, we will explore the history, culture, and significance of the Dalada Maligawa.

History of the Tooth Relic

The history of the tooth relic dates back to the 4th century BC when the Buddha passed away. According to legend, one of the Buddha's teeth was retrieved from his funeral pyre and smuggled to Sri Lanka by a princess. The tooth relic was then enshrined in various temples around Sri Lanka, including the Dalada Maligawa in Mahanuwara.

Over the centuries, the tooth relic has been the subject of many battles and has been moved from place to place to protect it from invaders. It was hidden in the jungle during the Portuguese and Dutch occupations of Sri Lanka and was finally brought to the Dalada Maligawa in the 18th century.

Culture of the Dalada Maligawa

The Dalada Maligawa is not just a temple but also a center of Sri Lankan culture and tradition. It is a place of pilgrimage for Buddhists from all over the world and is a symbol of the country's rich cultural heritage.

One of the most important cultural events at the Dalada Maligawa is the Kandy Esala Perahera. This 10-day festival takes place in July or August and is a celebration of the tooth relic of the Buddha. During the festival, a procession of elephants, dancers, drummers, and flag bearers winds its way through the streets of Kandy. It is a spectacular sight to behold, and it attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world.

Another important cultural aspect of the Dalada Maligawa is its traditional architecture. The temple is built in a classic Sri Lankan architectural style and has four main buildings, each with a unique purpose. The temple complex also includes a museum showcasing the history and culture of the tooth relic and the temple.

Significance of the Dalada Maligawa

The Dalada Maligawa is a significant religious and cultural landmark in Sri Lanka. It is a symbol of the country's Buddhist heritage and is a place of pilgrimage for Buddhists from all over the world.

The tooth relic of the Buddha is believed to have great power, and it is said to bring blessings and good fortune to those who come into contact with it. The tooth relic is kept in a golden casket, adorned with precious stones, and placed on a pedestal in the temple's inner sanctum. Only a select group of priests are allowed to enter the inner sanctum, and even they cannot touch the casket.

Visitors to the temple can view the outer chamber, where they can see the golden casket from a distance. They can also participate in religious ceremonies, such as offering flowers and lighting oil lamps, which are believed to bring good fortune.

The Dalada Maligawa is also a place of healing. It is believed that the power of the tooth relic can cure illnesses and relieve those suffering. Many Buddhists come to the temple seeking healing and solace.

Conclusion

The Dalada Maligawa symbolizes Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage and Buddhist traditions. It is a place of pilgrimage where Buddhists from all over the world come to pay their respects to the tooth relic of the Buddha. The temple is a religious site and a center of Sri Lankan culture and tradition, with its magnificent architecture and historical significance. The annual Kandy Esala Perahera festival is a significant cultural event that attracts visitors from all over the world. The temple's serene ambiance and the mystique surrounding the tooth relic provide a unique spiritual experience for visitors.

The significance of the Dalada Maligawa extends beyond just religious beliefs. It serves as a symbol of Sri Lanka's national identity and rich cultural heritage, and preserving this historical monument is vital to maintaining the country's unique cultural legacy.

Overall, the Dalada Maligawa is an important landmark that showcases the beauty and significance of Sri Lanka's ancient traditions. It offers a glimpse into the country's rich cultural past and remains an essential destination for tourists seeking an immersive cultural experience. A visit to this remarkable temple is a must for anyone interested in exploring the spiritual and cultural roots of Sri Lanka.