Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic: Heart of Kandy’s Heritage
Discover the spiritual, historical, and cultural wonder of Kandy’s most revered Buddhist shrine, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
Overview
The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, locally known as Sri Dalada Maligawa, is the most venerated Buddhist shrine in Sri Lanka. Nestled at the core of the historic city of Kandy, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is believed to enshrine a canine tooth of Gautama Buddha, drawing devout pilgrims and intrigued travelers from every corner of the globe.
Historical Background
The temple’s origins reach deep into Sri Lankan history. After the passing of the Buddha, legend holds that his body was cremated in Kusinara (India), and his left upper canine tooth was saved amidst the ashes and smuggled to Sri Lanka in the 4th century AD by Princess Hemamala and Prince Dantha from the Kingdom of Kalinga.
Initially enshrined in Anuradhapura, the tooth relic was transferred through successive Sri Lankan capitals—Polonnaruwa, Dambadeniya, Yapahuwa, Kurunegala, Gampola, and Kotte—before reaching its final resting place in Kandy. The relic was not just a spiritual symbol, but a vital political talisman; it became tradition that whoever held the tooth relic possessed the divine right to rule the island.
Symbolism and Significance
The Sacred Tooth Relic is Sri Lanka’s holiest possession. It represents not only Buddhist faith but also legitimized political sovereignty for centuries. For devotees, venerating the relic is akin to worshipping the Buddha himself. For rulers, possession of the relic historically equated to possessing the mandate to govern.
- Spiritual Center: A major pilgrimage site for Buddhists in Sri Lanka and around the world.
- Cultural Identity: The relic helped unify various Sinhalese kingdoms under the singular ideal of Buddhahood.
- Political Authority: Kings went to great lengths to protect or possess the relic, making its home synonymous with the seat of power.
Legends and Myths
Legend weaves much of the relic’s mystique:
- It is said to have been hidden in the hair of Princess Hemamala during its journey from India to Sri Lanka, evading hostile forces intent on destroying all of the Buddha’s remains.
- The relic was encased in nested jewelled caskets and moved from city to city, always under royal protection.
Architectural Marvel
The present temple, rebuilt and embellished through the centuries—especially under Kings Vira Narendra Sinha and Kirti Sri Rajasinha—rises at the heart of Kandy’s old royal precinct, beside the tranquil Kandy Lake. Its architecture is an elegant blend, intertwining suggestive motifs from Sinhalese, Tamil, Hindu, and Islamic traditions, symbolic of Sri Lanka’s diverse cultural landscape.
- Kandyan Style: The temple reflects unique Kandyan architectural trends, with wooden pillars, carved doors, and gold, silver, ivory, and bronze ornamentation.
- Royal Palace Adjacent: The temple is part of the grand complex that once formed the palace of the last Sinhalese kingdom.
- Kandy Lake (Kiri Muhuda): Forms a picturesque backdrop to the temple’s southern edge.
Key Elements of the Temple
- Vahalkada: Entrance pavilion, often richly decorated.
- Handun Kunama: The inner sanctum where the relic is enshrined.
- Octagon (Pattirippuwa): An iconic structure initially built as a royal audience hall, now part of the temple.
- Alut Maligawa: A more modern shrine hall used for additional offerings.
Rituals and Worship
The temple’s heartbeat is its daily and ceremonial rituals. The Sacred Tooth is never seen by the public; it resides in seven nested caskets within the inner sanctum. Rituals are performed three times daily by Buddhist monks of the Malwatte and Asgiriya chapters. Offerings of flowers, incense, and prayers drift through the air as a constant stream of devotees file past the shrine.
| Time | Ritual Description |
|---|---|
| Dawn | First set of puja (offerings and prayers), opening with drumming and flute music |
| Noon | Midday devotional offerings, often with rice or sweet dishes presented |
| Evening | Final round of ceremonies with closing prayers, drumming, and lighting of lamps |
Although only a handful of senior laypeople and monks ever see the relic itself, these rituals and the atmosphere of reverence render every visit profound.
Esala Perahera: The Grand Festival
The most spectacular event at the temple is the annual Esala Perahera, a magnificent procession held in July or August. For ten nights, the city erupts into a vibrant pageant featuring processions of brilliantly adorned elephants, fire dancers, drummers, and torchbearers. The temple’s chief lay custodian leads the parade on horseback, and a replica casket representing the Sacred Tooth Relic is borne atop the lead elephant.
- Cultural Showcase: The festival features Kandyan dancers, whip-crackers, traditional musicians, and flag bearers, reflecting centuries-old traditions.
- Spiritual Renewal: It marks a time of spiritual cleansing, communal unity, and blessings for the country and people.
The Temple Over Time
The temple has been a silent witness to the turbulent chapters of Sri Lankan history:
- Colonial Threats: The Portuguese and Dutch displayed fierce hostility toward the relic — at times attempting to seize it or destroy it altogether.
- British Period: British colonial rule ushered in relative peace, though the temple’s role was politically downplayed.
- Conservation: The temple has undergone several cycles of restoration and expansion, a testament to its enduring importance.
UNESCO World Heritage Recognition
In 1988, UNESCO designated the Sacred City of Kandy, including the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, as a World Heritage Site. This acknowledgment was in recognition of its unparalleled value to world heritage, both for its association with Buddhism and its living traditions.
Visitor Experience and Etiquette
For today’s visitor, a pilgrimage or tour to the temple is an immersion into Sri Lankan tradition, spirituality, and artistry:
- Modest attire is a must — shoulders and legs must be covered, and shoes are always left at the entrance.
- The temple is busiest during main worship times and on poya (full moon) days, as well as throughout Esala Perahera.
- Photography is allowed, except within the inner sanctum and some ritual areas.
- A respectful demeanor is expected at all times.
Beyond the main temple hall, visitors can explore:
- Museum of the Tooth Relic: Displaying historical artifacts, ancient texts, and photographs documenting the temple’s legacy.
- Kandy Lake: A picturesque location for contemplation and essential to the city’s ambience.
- Devales: Shrines to Hindu deities found within the greater temple complex, reflecting the syncretic blend of local beliefs.
Architecture and Artistic Highlights
- Elaborate woodwork, stone carvings, and mural paintings narrate Buddhist lore and Sri Lankan history throughout the temple.
- Gilded roofs, finely carved doors, ivory-inlaid panels, and decorative silverware grace the shrine’s interiors.
The overall construction harmoniously blends form and function, with verandahs, pavilions, and inner courtyards designed to accommodate throngs of worshippers.
Practical Information for Visitors
- Opening Hours: Generally open daily; closes during certain ritual times.
- Entrance Fee: Charged to non-residents; typically free for Sri Lankan citizens.
- Best Time to Visit: Mornings for relative quiet; festival period for immersive cultural experience (but expect crowds).
- Accessibility: The main precinct and its surroundings are accessible for most visitors, though the grounds can be crowded and uneven in places.
- Nearby Attractions: The Royal Palace, National Museum of Kandy, Udawattakele Forest Reserve, and bustling Kandy Market.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Why is the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic so important?
A: It enshrines what is believed to be the left upper canine tooth of Buddha, serving as Sri Lanka’s holiest Buddhist relic and a symbol of sovereignty for centuries.
Q: Can visitors see the tooth relic?
A: The actual relic is kept hidden within a series of caskets, but devotees and tourists can view the exterior casket in the shrine room during daily rituals.
Q: What is the best time to visit the Temple?
A: Morning puja (around 5:30€“7:00 AM) offers a tranquil experience, while the Esala Perahera festival (July/August) showcases the temple at its cultural zenith.
Q: Are there other attractions nearby?
A: Yes, including Kandy Lake, the former Royal Palace, National Museum, Udawattakele Forest, and the colorful Kandy Market.
Q: Is there a dress code?
A: Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is required. Shoes and hats must be removed before entering the temple precincts.
Conclusion
The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is far more than Sri Lanka’s premier Buddhist sanctuary. It encapsulates the hopes, faith, artistry, and political legacy of an entire nation, standing as a living monument to an unbroken tradition of reverence that continues to inspire millions each year.
