Question: Ever wondered how a seemingly ordinary village could house a temple with roots stretching back centuries? Welcome to Sagama Raja Maha Viharaya. This Buddhist temple stands in the village of Sagama in the Kandy District.
Let’s uncover the captivating story of Sagama Raja Maha Viharaya together. Its history may reach as far back as the 3rd century B.C when King Devanampiyatissa ruled. Some believe that a sapling of the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya was planted here then. Others say its origins lie in the reign of King Buvanekabahu V of Gampola between 1372 and 1408 A.D. The ancient Sinhalese text Nampota mentions this temple. It is believed to have been written after the 14th century.
The old image house and the monks’ dwelling are considered ancient monuments. These buildings are archaeologically significant. The image house’s architecture showcases features of the Gampola and Kandyan periods. Notice the paintings and sculptures. They tell silent stories of bygone eras.
The Sagama inscription of King Buvanekabahu V is a key historical find. It is located in Nugaliyadda village near the Sagama Viharaya. The inscription dates back to the 14th century. It speaks of two minister brothers. Alakeshwara and Deva-mantrishwara offered lands to God Natha of Senkadagala and the god of the Na-tree. The inscription suggests these brothers were second in importance only to the king.
Interestingly Sagama means the six villages in Sinhala. The Sagama Raja Maha Viharaya is surrounded by six villages. These are Nugaliyadda Bettawatta Godamunna Kapuliyadda Haputale and Mahaedagama.
The temple complex has two image houses. The older one is on the right. The one on the left is suspected to be older but renovated. Some new ghastly paintings in the shrine on the left make the 18th-century shrine to the right seem older.
The older image house displays the Degaldoruwa style of paintings. These paintings are likely from the time of King Kirti Sri Rajasingha. You can see the 24 suvisi Buddhas and worshipping monks depicted in soothing colors. In contrast the second image house was erected around 1910. The murals in this newer Vihara show a modern folk style. The statues and shrine here are painted in much brighter colors.
A stone path leads to a large ceitiya. It was built in 1938. There was also a mal-asana at the foot of the Bodhi tree on the left. This Bodhi tree is said to be from the original tree in Anuradhapura. The second Bo-tree on the right is a companion tree planted later.
In the past six villages served the Sagama Raja Maha Viharaya. They held a 14-day Perahera three days after the Sinhala New Year. It was a kiri-boda Perahera only males prepared the food and alms-giving. Each village took turns performing this Perahera. Today only four villages participate.
The temple was briefly called Gunaratna Vihara. This was to honor Ven. Horekaduwa Gunaratna Thero. Now a dharmasalawa stands to commemorate the monk.
The Sagama Raja Maha Vihara is an archaeologically protected monument. This recognition came in June 2023. It protects the two ancient image houses and the monks’ residence.
So as you stand here consider the many layers of history within this sacred space. From ancient kings to devoted villagers the Sagama Raja Maha Viharaya remains a testament to Sri Lanka’s rich cultural and religious heritage. Take a moment to appreciate the enduring legacy of this special place.