Sri Shailabimbarama Temple, located in Dodanduwa, Sri Lanka, is a historically significant Buddhist temple with deep cultural and religious roots. This temple, also known as Shailabimbarama Maha Viharaya, has played a vital role in the preservation and promotion of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. Below is a detailed exploration of its history, architecture, significance, and cultural impact.
History of Sri Shailabimbarama Temple
Sri Shailabimbarama Temple was established in 1819 A.D. and has since become an important centre for Buddhist teachings and practices.
The temple was originally known as Udugalpitiya Viharaya and Degalle Viharaya, but it later became known as Shailabimbaramaya when a stone Buddha statue was placed in the temple between 1786-1854 A.D.. This statue was brought from Kaveripattinam, India, under the guidance of Buddhist monk Koggala Dhammissara.
During its early years, the temple flourished as a highly recognized Buddhist institute, maintaining relations with the King of Burma (Myanmar) in the 16th and 17th centuries.
The temple’s image house, which was constructed during this period, remains one of its most significant architectural features.
Architectural Significance
Sri Shailabimbarama Temple is renowned for its unique architectural style, blending Dutch influences with traditional Sri Lankan Buddhist designs. Some of its most notable features include:
1. The Image House
The front façade of the image house is decorated with masonry mouldings, depicting the British Court of Arms with a lion and unicorn.
The inner chamber contains murals that reflect the low-country style of Kandyan Art tradition.
The stone-seated Buddha statue, originally from South India, is placed inside the image house.
2. Murals & Paintings
The murals inside the temple depict historical Buddhist events, including the arrival of Theri Sangamitta with the Sacred Bo Tree.
The paintings on the exterior walls showcase Dutch architectural elements, making the temple unique among Sri Lankan Buddhist temples.
3. Sanghavasa (Priests’ Residence)
The Sanghavasa, built in the 19th century, serves as the residential quarters for monks.
It was offered to Ven. Kataluve Gunarathana Thero, who obtained higher ordination in Myanmar in 1808.
Cultural & Religious Importance
Sri Shailabimbarama Temple has been a centre for Buddhist education and revival in Sri Lanka. Some of its key contributions include:
1. Role in Buddhist Education
Dodanduwa Sri Piyaratana Tissa Mahanayake Thero, attached to this temple, played a crucial role in reviving Buddhist education during the colonial era.
He established Dodanduwa Piyaratana Vidyalaya in 1869, challenging missionary education systems.
The school, located near the temple, was one of the first Buddhist schools in Sri Lanka.
2. Connection to Colonel Henry Steel Olcott
Colonel Henry Steel Olcott, a key figure in Buddhist revival movements, stayed at Shailabimbarama Temple for 11 days after formally becoming a Buddhist in 1880.
His visit helped strengthen Buddhist activism in Sri Lanka.
3. Influence on Literature
S. Mahinda Thero, a famous Buddhist poet, used the temple extensively while writing his books.
His room, bed, chair, and bookshelf are still preserved at the temple.
Festivals & Events
Sri Shailabimbarama Temple hosts several annual Buddhist festivals, attracting devotees from across Sri Lanka. Some of the most notable events include:
1. Bakmahe Dhamsara Surya Festival
A colorful Buddhist festival celebrated in April, featuring traditional rituals and ceremonies.
The event includes chanting, processions, and cultural performances.
2. Siri Tooth Vision Festival
Organized by Friendship Care, this event is held in Galle and includes religious ceremonies and community gatherings.
The festival is an important occasion for devotees to pay homage to Buddhist relics.
Visiting Sri Shailabimbarama Temple
Sri Shailabimbarama Temple is located near the Dodanduwa Railway Station, along the Galle-Colombo main road. Visitors can explore:
The Image House with its murals and Dutch-style architecture.
The Sanghavasa, where monks reside and conduct religious teachings.
Dodanduwa Piyaratana Vidyalaya, one of Sri Lanka’s first Buddhist schools.
The temple is open to visitors from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM, and it is highly rated by travelers for its peaceful atmosphere and historical significance.
Sri Shailabimbarama Temple in Dodanduwa is a historically rich and culturally significant Buddhist site. From its unique architecture to its role in Buddhist education and revival, the temple continues to be a symbol of Sri Lankan heritage. Whether you are a devotee, historian, or traveller, visiting this temple offers a deep insight into Sri Lanka’s Buddhist traditions.