Kuragala monastery complex
Description
Kuragala monastery complex can be found following a 2.25 km range of the 14th milepost in the Balangoda-Uggal Kalthota road. Classical Buddhist inheritance has seen the light and received synchronous to ancient monasteries like Vessagiriya, Ritigala, Dimbulagala, Sithulpavuwa and Mihinthalaya.
With the few caverns notable for their religious, national, cultural and historical value, this cavern exists as a unique site second to none. According to legend, the old name of this giant rock is “Kuharagala”, not “Kuragala”. Though Kuragala, in general, defines this site, there are a couple of rock-apical, namely Kuragala and Hituwangala, which is designated by dint of its natural area with a natural concavity in the east slope of the rock. This rock hole is 5-6.5 m deep and wide enough for two personalities to go in at once.
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Historical Significance
The roots of the Kuragala monastery complex stretch back to ancient times. The site is adorned with Brahmin inscriptions dating back centuries. Sadly, Muslim fundamentalists destroyed this rich Buddhist heritage in the late 20th century. They resorted to the systematic erasure of evidence by applying concentrated acid, and converting caves into mosques. The Brahmin inscriptions, some of the oldest in Sri Lanka, were covered with cement and concrete. Houses were built adjacent to signboards declaring the area a protected archaeological reserve, displaying no regard for its historical importance. The Buddhist priest in charge of the temple had to flee due to violence and threats from encroaching Muslims. Regrettably, the government turned a blind eye to this destruction, succumbing to pressure from narrow-minded Muslim politicians.
Revival and Reconstruction
In 2013, the archaeological department finally awoke from its slumber and decided to take action. The unauthorized buildings were scheduled for demolition, and plans were made to relocate the inhabitants and reclaim the archaeological land. The department also initiated new research, tracing the inscriptions in the rock caves and conducting excavations. However, these efforts faced strong opposition and ultimately came to a halt.
Nonetheless, in February 2021, a ray of hope emerged as the temple was handed over to Ven. Rajakeeya Panditha Wataddara Gnanissara Nayake, popularly known as Nelligala Hamuduruwo. Under the theme "Yali Pibidena Kuragala" (Reviving Kuragala), the reconstruction of this sacred area commenced. Alongside the monastery's restoration, plans include constructing a Sacred Relics House, a Bodhi Pavilion, and a towering Buddha statue. A majestic 500-feet-high staircase is also envisioned, adorned with a grand lion statue as a tribute to those who safeguarded the Kuragala Sacred Area and returned it to the Buddhist community. Additionally, the construction of a reservoir named "Kuragala Wewa" is in the pipeline.
Preservation Efforts
Given the abundance of religious artifacts at Kuragala, all constructions are carried out with the approval and supervision of the Department of Archaeology. The focus is preserving the sites where historical evidence is presumed to have been discovered. Construction work is meticulously executed on the flat black rock plateau within the Kuragala area, ensuring the conservation of the valuable historical remnants.
Prehistoric Evidence
The Kuragala area bears witness to human settlements during the late Pleistocene period. Excavations have unearthed stone tools, fossilized bone fragments, and the remains of a human skeleton believed to be more than 8,000 years old. These findings indicate that the inhabitants of Kuragala engaged not only in hunting but also in agricultural activities. In addition, the remnants of seashells and clamshells further suggest their close connection to coastal regions.
Buddhist Monastery
Kuragala served as a Buddhist monastery from the 3rd century BC to the 1st century AD. The cave shelters at the site were dedicated to Buddhist monks by generous donors. These caves provided protection for the monks during the annual rainy season retreat, adhering to the Theravada Buddhist tradition. The inscriptions within the caves bear witness to the donors' names and religious contributions. At the pinnacle of Kuragala stands a brick-built Stupa dating back to 1971, now a protected monument. This Stupa follows the tradition of Akasa Chaithya, constructed from the 7th century CE onwards as communication beacons and guiding landmarks.
Muslim Shrine
Amidst the ancient Buddhist heritage, remnants of a Muslim shrine can also be found. Arabic inscriptions and a dervish tombstone connect the shrine to ancient Muslim traditions. A mihrab carved into the rock indicates the direction of the Kaaba (kibla). While the structures were built in the 20th century, the shrine's historical use is evident.
