Did you know that the oldest Buddhist temple in Colombo is right here at Dipaduptharama Rajamaha Viharaya? This temple is more than just an ancient site. It is a living testament to the enduring relationship between Sri Lanka and Thailand.
Dipaduptharama Rajamaha Viharaya’s story begins in 1745. It started within the Kulatunga Wijayasiriwardana Walawwa. It was initially known as the “Walawwe Pansala” or the “Temple of the Mansion”. For many years its doors were open only to the elite. It was a private sanctuary until 1806. Seenigama Dhammakkhandha Thera helped open it to the public.
Later Migettuwatte Gunananda Thera became the leader of Dipaduptharama Rajamaha Viharaya. He was famous for his debates with Christians. The Panadura-vadaya debate in 1873 was a turning point. It boosted Buddhism in Sri Lanka. It even drew Western figures like Henry Steel Olcott and Madam Helena Blavatsky to the country. They were co-founders of the Theosophical Society.
In 1883 Kotahena saw religious tensions rise. Kotahena was a Catholic stronghold. Dipaduptharama Rajamaha Viharaya was the only Buddhist temple there. A Buddhist procession faced an attack during Easter Week. This led to riots and casualties.
The present Buddhist flag was first hoisted here on Vesak day in 1885. Migettuwatte Gunananda Thera raised it. That Vesak holiday was the first public one under British rule.
Deepaduttarama Viharaya is also known as the Thai Temple. This is because Prince Prisdang Chumsai, a grandson of King Rama III of Siam, lived here. He was ordained as a monk in 1896. From 1905 to 1910 he led this temple. The Siamese Royal Family supported the temple during his time.
Even Thai royalty has graced this temple. In 1950 King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit of Thailand visited. They planted a sandalwood tree. This symbolises the deep roots between the two nations. These religious ties go back over 700 years. Sri Lankan monks visited the Sukhothai Kingdom long ago.
Look around you. Can you spot the blend of architectural styles? Dipaduptharama Rajamaha Viharaya has Dutch and British influences. These are remnants from the colonial era. Also look for Thai architecture.
Notice the image house. Wijayasiriwardana originally built it. It shows Dutch and British elements. A facade was added in 1785 and 1873. The British Royal emblem sits at the top. Inside are Buddha statues and murals of his life.
The Ratna Chetiya Stupa is special too. P.C. Jinavaravansa Thera designed it. Its design is like the Mulagandha Kuti Vihara in India.
Today Dipaduptharama Rajamaha Viharaya stands as a protected site. It is a place where history and spirituality meet. Its story is a reminder of cultural exchange and religious revival. The temple is a symbol of the enduring bond between Sri Lanka and Thailand. It all began over 250 years ago.