Nestled in the heart of Kandy, a scenic hill town in central Sri Lanka, the Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa) is one of the most revered religious sites in the Buddhist world.
It houses the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha, making it not only a spiritual epicenter for Buddhists in Sri Lanka but also a significant pilgrimage destination for followers around the globe. You may like to read - 10 Simple Buddhist Practices You Can Do Every Day.
A Sacred History
The origin of the Temple of the Tooth is deeply entwined with Sri Lanka’s ancient history and its Buddhist heritage.
According to tradition, the sacred tooth relic was smuggled into Sri Lanka in the 4th century AD from India by Princess Hemamali and Prince Dantha, hidden in the princess’s hair.
The relic was given to the king of Anuradhapura, who recognized its political and spiritual significance. Over the centuries, it was moved to various capitals for safekeeping until it found a permanent home in Kandy in the 16th century.
The temple was built within the royal palace complex of the Kingdom of Kandy, and ever since, the possession of the relic has been seen as a symbol of rightful rule.
Sri Lankan monarchs believed that whoever held the tooth relic had divine authority to govern the island.
Architectural Grandeur
The Temple of the Tooth is not just a place of worship; it is a stunning example of traditional Kandyan architecture. Surrounded by a moat and a white-stone wall known as the "water waves wall," the temple complex is both majestic and serene.
The temple’s main shrine room, where the relic is enshrined, is richly decorated with intricate wood carvings, lacquer work, and gold ornamentation. Related article - What Is Karma According to Buddhism?.
The relic itself is kept inside a golden casket, which is shaped like a stupa and nestled within several other nested caskets, each more elaborate than the last. The public does not directly see the tooth relic; instead, they view the golden shrine where it is enshrined during special pujas (offerings).
Religious and Cultural Significance
The Temple of the Tooth plays a central role in Sri Lankan Buddhism. Daily rituals, or pujas, are performed three times a day: in the morning, at noon, and in the evening.
These rituals involve drumming, chanting, and offerings of flowers and incense, attracting both pilgrims and tourists alike. Devotees line up to make their offerings, seeking blessings for health, peace, and prosperity.
One of the most significant events in the temple’s calendar is the Esala Perahera, held annually in July or August. This grand 10-day procession honors the sacred relic and showcases Sri Lanka’s rich cultural traditions.
Lavishly decorated elephants, dancers, drummers, and torchbearers wind through the streets of Kandy in a spectacle of sound, color, and devotion. The relic itself does not leave the temple, but a replica is carried in a golden casket atop the lead elephant.
Symbol of National Unity
Beyond its religious importance, the Temple of the Tooth is a symbol of national identity and cultural heritage for Sri Lanka. Throughout history, it has survived invasions, colonization, and even attacks.
Notably, in 1998, the temple was severely damaged by a suicide bombing carried out by the LTTE (Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam), targeting the relic and what it represented.
The attack caused international outrage, and the temple was quickly restored, reinforcing its resilience and the unifying power it holds for the Sri Lankan people. Related article What Does Buddhism Say About Suffering?
Today, the Temple of the Tooth is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site (as part of the Sacred City of Kandy), but also a center of scholarship, hosting the Sri Dalada Museum, which preserves ancient manuscripts, gifts to the temple, and historical artifacts related to the relic.
Visiting the Temple
For visitors, the Temple of the Tooth offers a serene and spiritual experience. The atmosphere inside the temple is tranquil, filled with the fragrance of jasmine and lotus flowers, the sound of chanting, and the rhythmic beat of traditional drums. While non-Buddhists are welcome to visit, modest dress and respectful behavior are expected.
It’s advisable to visit during puja times to witness the rituals and feel the energy of devotion, although these times also tend to be more crowded. The adjacent Kandy Lake, Royal Palace, and the nearby Udawattakele Forest Reserve make the temple area a hub of cultural and natural exploration.
A Living Legacy
The Temple of the Tooth is more than a historical monument. It remains a living, breathing center of faith, ritual, and national pride. For Buddhists, the relic is a tangible link to the Buddha and his teachings, and for Sri Lankans, the temple is a testament to their rich cultural legacy and resilience. You may like to read Ten wholesome deeds and ten unwholesome deeds in Buddhism here.
In a world that often seems fragmented, the Temple of the Tooth stands as a symbol of unity, continuity, and peace. Whether you visit as a pilgrim, a historian, or a curious traveler, it offers a deeply moving experience rooted in centuries of devotion and tradition.
Thanks.
Written By HarvestedSpiritualmind.
Spiritual Practice and Life Motivation Researchers.