Alawathugoda Sri Sumana Saman Devalaya

Description

The Sri Sumana Saman Devalaya, located at Alawathugoda junction in the Kandy District of Sri Lanka, holds significant cultural and religious importance as the third most revered Saman Devalaya in the country. This sacred site is historically linked to King Walagamba's era, around 89-77 BC, but faced destruction due to the Portuguese invasion, showcasing the turbulent history of religious sites in Sri Lanka during colonial times. The choice of its location is strategic and symbolic, as it offers a view of Sri Pada (Adam's Peak), reinforcing its religious significance by connecting it visually to this sacred mountain.

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Reconstruction in 1814 marked a pivotal moment in the Devalaya's history, indicating resilience and the community's commitment to preserving their religious heritage. The adjacent temple's destruction by British forces further emphasizes the impact of colonialism on Sri Lanka's Buddhist heritage, reflecting broader patterns of cultural and religious suppression during colonial rule.

Architecturally, the Devalaya is noted for its simplicity and use of natural materials, standing on a granite base that elevates it above the surrounding terrain. This modest, windowless structure, housing wooden figures of deities such as Saman and Visnu, serves as a focal point for devotion and ritual, encapsulating the blend of Hindu and Buddhist traditions characteristic of Sri Lankan religious practice.

Declared a protected monument by the Department of Archaeology, the Devalaya's preservation underscores the importance of maintaining cultural and historical sites, serving as a testament to Sri Lanka's rich religious and cultural tapestry. The annual Esala Perahera, a vibrant festival featuring processions, exemplifies the continuing role of the Devalaya in the spiritual and communal life of the region, bridging past and present.

The historical practice of litigants seeking justice or undergoing ordeals at the Devalaya during the Kandyan period highlights its role as a place of moral and spiritual authority, underscoring the intertwining of religious belief and social governance in Sri Lankan history. Today, the Sri Sumana Saman Devalaya at Alawathugoda remains a symbol of resilience, cultural identity, and spiritual devotion, reflecting the enduring significance of religious sites in shaping and sustaining community life.