Kandy Dalada Maligawa
“Temple of the Budhdha’s Sacred Tooth Relic”
Kandy Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, known as Sri Dalada Maligawa, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Kandy, Sri Lanka’s cultural capital. Nestled near the picturesque Kandy Lake and surrounded by lush hills, the temple is one of the most revered Buddhist sites in the world. It houses the Sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha, a venerated object that symbolizes the spiritual and political power of the nation.
Historical Significance
The Sacred Tooth Relic is believed to have been taken from the Buddha’s funeral pyre in 543 BCE and preserved as a sacred artifact.
The relic first arrived in Sri Lanka during the reign of King Kithsirimevan (4th century CE). It was brought from India by Princess Hemamali and Prince Dantha, who hid it in the princess’s hair to protect it from enemies.
Since its arrival, the relic has played a significant role in Sri Lankan history, symbolizing the right to rule the island. It was believed that whoever possessed the relic had the divine authority to govern the country.
The current temple complex was built during the reigns of King Vimaladharmasuriya II (1687–1707) and King Narendrasinghe (1707–1739).
The temple has undergone several renovations and restorations due to damage caused by wars, colonial invasions, and a bombing attack in 1998. Despite these challenges, it has retained its cultural and architectural grandeur.
