A popular pilgrimage destination in Sri Lanka ‘ Katharagama ‘ – By Nishantha Weragoda
Source : Nishantha Weragoda Linkedin
Katharagama a popular pilgrimage destination frequented by adherents of all religions in Sri Lanka.
The main shrine devoted to Skanda popularly described in eulogies as God having six faces and twelve arms whose assistance is sought for worldly gain. The history of the shrine dates back to 2 century BC.
The annual procession held in July or August is the main event of the shrine with fire walkers and
Kawadi dancers. Offering to the god are made at 04.30am , 10.30 am and 06.30pm daily.
Menik Ganga (River of Gems)
Can be reached this popular river Menik Ganga from Kataragama and Yala National park as well. A walk across the bridge takes you to the shallow places in the river from Kataragama pilgrim area or one of the resting site at yala park. It’s a nice & easy river for a leisurely bath (village style) anytime during the day. The area around the river is very attractive with large trees on the banks providing plenty of shade. pilgrims enjoy their ritual bath in the middle of the river.
The sacred pilgrimage at Kataragama
To Buddhists: In first sanctuary is where the planted a sampling of the Sacred Sri Maha Bodhi tree of Anuradhapura, sanctifying the spot.
To Hindus: kataragama is the domain of the Hindu war god Skanda. Both Hindu & Buddhist communities belive that Hindu war god Kataragama (Skanda) has the power to intervene benevolently in their affairs & thousands, convinced of the deity’s benign influence, journey to kataragama for a puja (offering) at the time of embarking on a new venture.
Kirivehera
Beyond the Maha Devale is a meeting hall on the north side of the square. From the east gate, a Tulip tree avenue leads 500m past further lines of stalls selling lotus flowers to the Kiri Vehera dating from 1 BC. It is a milk white large Stupa with a well maintained & peaceful courtyard. Its only unusual feature being the two sets of square walls which enclose it. A modern statue of King Dutugamunu stands behind the Dagoba.
