Download Miraculous and marvellous temple referred to as the Bellanwila

Miraculous and marvellous temple referred
to as the Bellanwila Rajamaha Viharaya,
with a heritage of glorious history, stands out
as the most historic and significant among
the many temples in the island today.
Situated on Dehiwala - Maharagama road
about 2 kms away from the Colombo-Galle
highway in a scenic location, originally
surrounded by green fields, dating back to
the Anuradhapura period.
The earliest available documentary source for the
history of the temple is one of the early chronicles Bodhivansa. From what can be gathered the history
of the temple dates back to the Anuradhapura period
during which time Theri Sanghamitta brought with
her a branch of the Sri Maha Bodhi under which the
Buddha attained Buddhahood.
Bodhivansa speaks of 40 places where the Bo saplings from the original were planted and
Bellanwila is clearly stated in the list, leading to a definite conclusion regarding the origin of this
sacred temple. Whatever this may mean, it cannot be denied that this temple is a sacred place, as
sacred as the place where Buddha attained his enlightenment.
When examining the history of the temple it has been classified into 3 phases. The period
associated with the planting of the Sri Maha Bodhi during the Anuradhapura period, is the first
phase. The second phase begins with the reign of Sri Sangabodhi Parakramabahu of Sri
Jayewardenepura Kotte, a generous supporter of Buddhism, who patronised the temples of the
area.
The third or the modern era begins with the re-discovery of the
temple by the Thera Thengodagedara after the dark ages
subsequent to the Portuguese conquest. According to Professor
Nandasena Ratnapala the legend says that tree worship was in
existence and it has been the practice of early kings to construct
temples on selected land believed to have been dedicated to divine
beings, citing Ruwanweliseya as an example.
He is of the view that tree worship as a mark of respect and a sign of prosperity was prevalent at
Bellanwila area and the Bo sapling was planted on a land dedicated to deities as a sign of
prosperity and blessed by them. It is believed that it had close links with Pepiliyane Sunethra Devi
Pirivena, due to its close proximity and that both belonged to the same complex as mentioned in
the Sandesa Kavya.
There is difference of opinion regarding the name as expressed by researchers of repute. The
general accepted view is that Bellanwila literally means a pond consisting of Bellan (a kind of
snails) which is supported by a pond located in the centre of lush green paddy land in the east.
There is still another view that it refers to a ‘wela’ (field) and not ‘wila’ meaning pond long
renowned as a prosperous area of paddy land, it is believed that more appropriate should be wela,
Arisen Ahubudu's version is that it denotes a paddy land in a forest rampant with Beli (a popular
fruit) trees whatever the origin may be, this is and has been a magnificent temple rendering an
enormous service to the island at large.
The massive temple plays a vital role in the life of every Sri Lankan Buddhist bringing into focus
its miraculous powers. Conveniently located on the way to Maharagama most prominently
displayed at the entrance is a Makara Thorana solidly constructed as though every devotee is
welcomed in walking through the main gate straight to the top with a flight of steps, at the foot of
which you find the statue of Venerable Bellanwila Somaratana Thera, who bravely championed
the historic revival of the temple.
To your left is the main Viharageya resembling Polonnaruwa architecture which house the
majestic standing Buddha statue, very similar to that of Aukana.
As you enter the most impressive sculpture is the standing image surrounded by Buddhist statues
of different postures. Behind is the recumbent Buddha image depicting the passing away. There is
also a statue of Bosath Maithree on a side.
There are exquisite paintings adorning every wall inside, depicting various events of the life of
the Buddha and illustrating the history of the temple. In the centre outside is the Bell shaped
Dagoba though not very large in size, stands as a monumental tribute for the devotees to worship
and gain merit.
As you enter the temple premises on your right there is the building which house the deities of
Vishnu, Ishvara and Ganeshwara. There is a small statue of Buddha too, very similar to the
Mahamevuna Samadhi Statue.
Behind this, is the most venerated, historic Bodhiya with its outspreading branches as if it is
bestowing compassion, loving kindness and patience to its worshippers? Right round the Bodhiya
are found the small Devale’s housing the symbolic images of gods such as Katharagama, Saman,
Vibheeshana, Huniam, Dedimunda, Natha and Pattini Matha, once again depicting the
architecture of the Polonnaruwa period.
Most Buddhists who visit the temple pray for their blessings and the
Kapumahatmayas offer a dedicated service. The devotees are offered the
best complying with their requests. Many are there to worship the
Bodhiya offer the merit, then make vows as well as to fulfil the vows
already made with all kinds of offerings for the favours granted. Early
morning is the best time to worship in quiet serene surroundings and
engage yourself in meditation, Pirith chanting and worship to your heart's
content.The place is spotlessly clean with volunteers sweeping with great
enthusiasm saying that "this is what keeps you healthy and free of
troubles in life".There are regular worshippers who come on specific days
mostly on Saturdays who have been visiting regularly lasting over 10, 15
years. Among them are a few who turn up as early as 5 o clock, engage in
cleaning and washing the Mal Aasana fully committed to the task. There
are still others deeply involved in making various puja - busy arranging
offerings of Gilanpasa. As the day dawns one would see the devotees
streaming in for Puja and the venerated Bodhiya is bathed going round it
reciting gathas.
On Saturdays it is packed with devotees of all ages. Every one of them feels at home; feel that it is
their own pious pilgrims come in crowds in vehicles from long distances. There is a Pilgrims Rest
located close to the temple across the road for those who are on a long journey.
This will not be complete if no mention is made of the annual procession the most colourful
cultural pageant comprising of traditional drummers, dancers, trumpeters and elephants etc
parading the streets of the neighbourhood which is believed to bless the entire area. It is our day's
routine to set off from home before dawn at 5 every Saturday, worship Viharaya, Dagoba and
leave for Bodhiya where we chant Pirith gazing at the beautiful Bo tree and pray for my family
and near and dear ones here and abroad for their good health and welfare.
Since I am in the evening of my life finally I wish may I be given good health to continue this
longest possible - of course with my husband who accompanies me. Buddhists - Do not fail to
visit this blissful place of worship.