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The ‘Sivrudagaba’ in Kelaniya-by Mahil Wijesinghe Source:sundayobserver Image Source:sundayobserver Learn about the fascinating history of the Kithsrimevan Kelani Raja Maha Vihara where the Buddha’s bathing robe is believed to be enshrined in the dagaba known as ‘Sivrudagaba’ After visiting the Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara last week, I stepped down under the magnificent white-painted archway and moved towards a shady tree in the lower terrace in search of an elderly villager who promised to keep my shoes until I returned from the temple. While I was taking leave from him, he inquired, “Mahattaya Egoda Kelaniya pansalata yannenedda? ‘Sivrugala’ ethana thiyenawa, Ekath Balanna”. (Sir, why don’t you visit the Egoda Kelaniya temple? ‘Sivrugala’ is over there). He showed me the way to the temple on the opposite bank of the Kelani Ganga from the main Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara. The villagers refer to this temple as the Egoda Kelani Vihara. The glistening ...