The city of Kandy, nestled amidst the lush green hills of the central highlands, serves as the cultural and spiritual epicentre of Sri Lanka. At its very core lies the Sri Dalada Maligawa, or the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a site of profound religious significance and architectural grandeur. For centuries, this hallowed ground has protected the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha, an object that is regarded not only as a religious treasure but as a symbol of national sovereignty and the divine right to rule. The temple remains a living monument where history, devotion, and art converge to define the identity of the Sri Lankan people.
The Sacred Journey: From Kalinga to Lankapattana
The history of the sacred relic is a narrative of immense bravery and unwavering faith, spanning across oceans and centuries. Following the Mahaparinirvana (passing away) of Gautama Buddha at Kushinagar, his remains were cremated, and it is recorded that his left canine tooth was retrieved from the funeral pyre. This relic eventually came into the possession of the Kalinga kingdom in ancient India, where it was venerated for generations.
In the 4th century AD, during a period of political instability in India, King Guhasiva of Kalinga made the pivotal decision to send the relic to Sri Lanka for protection. The responsibility for this perilous mission was entrusted to his daughter, Princess Hemamala, and her husband, Prince Danta. To ensure the safety of the relic from invaders and hostile forces, the Princess famously concealed the sacred object within her elaborate hair ornament. Disguised as Brahmins, the royal couple embarked on a secret journey, eventually sailing from the port of Tamralipti.
Upon their arrival at Lankapattana on the north-eastern coast of the island, they were received with great honour by King Sirimeghavanna (also known as Kithsirimevan), who reigned in Anuradhapura. The King enshrined the relic within his royal complex, establishing a tradition that the possession of the tooth relic was instrumental to the legitimacy of the Sri Lankan monarchy. Consequently, as the royal capitals shifted over the centuries, from Anuradhapura to Polonnaruwa, Dambadeniya, and Yapahuwa, the sacred relic moved in tandem with the seat of power.
The Architectural Evolution in the Kandyan Kingdom
The final and permanent home for the relic was established in Kandy in 1595. The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic as it stands today is the result of successive construction and expansion phases undertaken by various Kandyan monarchs. Each ruler sought to enhance the sanctuary, reflecting both their personal devotion and the aesthetic standards of the era.
The foundational structures of the current complex were initiated during the reign of King Vimaladharmasuriya II in the late 17th century. He was responsible for constructing a three-storey building dedicated to the relic’s rituals. His successor, King Sri Veera Parakrama Narendrasinha, further expanded the site, commissioning a two-storey temple that forms much of the core structure visible today.
The temple architecture is a masterpiece of the Kandyan style, characterised by its use of local materials and intricate craftsmanship. Visitors are greeted by the Mahawahalkada (main entrance) and a protective moat, leading into a realm replete with detailed wood carvings, vibrant murals, and painted ceilings. The use of ivory, silver, and gold in the internal fittings underscores the royal patronage the temple enjoyed. One of the most iconic additions to the complex is the Patthirippuwa, or the Octagonal Pavilion. Built by the last king of Kandy, King Sri Vikrama Rajasinha, in the early 19th century, it was originally designed as a royal audience hall where the monarch could address the public. Today, it stands as a symbolic sentinel overlooking the serene Kandy Lake.
The Grandeur of the Kandy Esala Perahera
No discussion of the Sri Dalada Maligawa is complete without referencing the Kandy Esala Perahera, a grand cultural festival that has been celebrated for centuries. This annual event, typically held in July or August, is a spectacular fusion of religious ritual and traditional performing arts. It serves as a public homage to the sacred relic, invoking blessings for rain and prosperity for the land.
The festival concludes with the Randoli Perahera, a procession of unparalleled magnificence. The climax of the parade features a majestic tusker, elaborately adorned in embroidered gold and red ceremonial regalia, carrying the golden casket (the Karanduwa) on its back. This procession is accompanied by hundreds of traditional Kandyan dancers, drummers, whip-crackers, and fire performers, creating a sensory experience that is truly unique to Sri Lanka.
For the Global Sri Lankan community, the Esala Perahera is a poignant reminder of their heritage. Whether witnessing the event in person or following the festivities from afar, the sight of the illuminated temple and the rhythmic beat of the drums evokes a deep sense of pride and connection to their cultural roots. The event highlights the untapped potential of Sri Lanka’s traditional arts to captivate a global audience, maintaining its authenticity in an ever-changing world.
A Living Symbol of National Identity
Today, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is much more than a place of worship; it is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a living symbol of Sri Lankan history. Every day, thousands of devotees dressed in white visit the temple to offer flowers and prayers, continuing a ritual that has remained unbroken for over a millennium. The scent of incense and the sound of the Hewisi (traditional drums) permeate the air, creating an atmosphere of profound serenity and spiritual focus.
The preservation of this site is a testament to the resilience of the Sri Lankan people. Despite historical invasions and more recent challenges, the temple has been meticulously maintained and restored. For those looking to explore the island’s rich past, the temple offers a comprehensive overview of the nation’s journey from an ancient kingdom to a modern state.
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The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic remains the spiritual heart of the nation, beating with the rhythm of tradition and faith. It stands as a beacon of hope and unity, inviting all to witness the enduring legacy of Sri Lanka’s glorious history.
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