Liked it ? Please share
Sri Lanka is an island nation that is renowned for its Buddhist roots, as well as significance in the story of Buddhism itself, with many notable figures as well as Lord Buddha himself visiting the island.
Sri Lanka’s Buddhist History
The country’s Buddhist history spans back multiple millennia, with the island becoming a significant hub for the study and spread of Buddhism ever since the third century where the philosophy was introduced to the nation. The introduction was carried out by Mahinda Bikkhu, the son of the legendary Emperor Ashoka.
The Statue
Sri Lanka’s newest Buddhist statue is based on the famous Avukana Buddha Statue situated in the ancient city of Anuradhapura, an ancient monument that was built sometime in the 5th century. The new statue at the Batamulla Kanda International Buddhist Centre was funded by Jagath Pinnagodawitana, a Matugama UNP organiser. The height of the statue is 135 feet tall and considered the tallest Buddha statue in South Asia. (source)
Fact: If you’re wondering what is the tallest sitting Buddha statue in the world, It is Spring Temple Buddha in Lushan county, China. It stands at 420 ft tall.
Meditation Centre
Below the colossal statue, a meditation centre with several cabins was built to provide dedicated areas for devotees to engage in worship or reflection; this provides isolation from the chaos of crowds rushing to see the record-breaking statue which is becoming one of the top places to visit in Kalutara.
Additional Statue
A lifelike statue of Venerable Maduluwawe Sobitha Thero was also built at the base of the main Buddha statue, to commemorate his legacy of peaceful revolution.
Location
The temple is located just 23 km from Kalutara and It will take about 40 minutes to reach. Once in Matugama turn in to Aluthgama road and take the first left to Bandaranayake street and take the first right to Madyama street.
Related Posts
Kalutara Chaithya – An Insider’s guide to a spiritual experience
Liked it ? Please share