The Kataragama Sylvan Shrine is an important place of worship for all Sri Lankans belonging to various religions and ethnic groups. It fosters ethnic and religious harmony. Kiriwehera in Kataragama is a Sacred place for all Buddhists across the world because it was visited by Lord Buddha.
The Sithulpawwa Raja Maha Viharaya situated in the Yala National Park is historically significant and identified as one of the greatest Second Century places of Buddhist worship. Its history dates back to over 2,200 years. The Hambantota District is not only a historically-important district but also an area full of diverse attractions, cultural heritage, and traditions which no other city in the world could compete with.
The township of Kataragama is beyond the south-eastern border of the Hambantota District and it adjoins the border of the Moneragala District. There is a distance of 288 kilometres between Colombo and Kataragama via Galle and Matara.
The town of Kataragama is believed to have been built amidst the picturesque jungle surroundings in the second century BC by King Dutugemunu to fulfill his vow to God Skanda (Kataragama Deviyo). It is said that King Dutugemunu made this vow to God Skanda who is venerated by devotees as a God of War, when he wished to save the kingdom from the South Indian invaders. It is said the holy city of Kataragama was built after expelling the invaders and bringing the entire country under one flag.
The Esala Festival and its procession are significant. The final perahera which is known as ‘Randoli’ is the highlight of the whole event and it is witnessed by large crowds. The fire walking ceremony attended by a group of devotees draws the attention of every spectator. The water cutting ceremony at the Menik Ganga followed by an alms-giving also attracts many crowds. These have gained wide popularity among local devotees and foreigners of all other faiths.
According to Nagalingam Kumarakuruparan, the study of the cult of Skanda, the Lord of Kataragama reflects the significant cultural heritage of the people on the island. He said, “the name Skanda evokes many images in one’s mind and he had been a warrior, a philosopher and a teacher who became an inspiration for literature and arts. He is old as time and, yet as young as every new beginning. He is the handsome hero and lover, the wise, primordial one.”
A railway and bus service has been arranged during the festive season for the convenience of the devotees who throng Kataragama from the four corners of the country.
The Kataragama Police have thrown a wide security net to protect the devotees from pickpockets and unruly elements. The vendors of various items and flowers who harass devotees are inspected by Police.
The Kataragama Sylvan Shrine is not only a place of sanctity for the Hindus and Buddhists, but Muslims also have a mosque close to the Kataragama Maha Devalaya and this signifies multi-religious harmony in the island.
The followers of other religions also flock to Kataragama Sylvan Shrine during the festive season.
The traditional Pada Yathra of devotees from the North will not be held this year, observing the rules and regulations of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Esala Festival will be held from July 21 to August 3. The Esala Festival is held since ancient days to mark the union of God Skanda and Goddess Valli.
The chief Kapumahathmaya Somipala Ratnayaka said all religious activities and rituals pertaining to the Esala Festival are being held according to the guidelines followed by King Dutugemunu and added that the Esala Festival was also held without the participation of devotees during the spread of cholera in Kataragama in 1921.
Add new comment