Buddha’s first visit to Sri Lanka-by M.A.R.Manukulasooriya Hiriyala group corr Source:Sundayobserver Mahiyanganaya is associated with the story of the first visit of the Buddha to Sri Lanka. Therefore, the history of the temple goes to the 6tth century B.C. Chronicles such as Mahawamsa record that the Buddha visited the island in the 9th month of the Buddhahood on a Duruthu Full Moon Day, to subdue Yakkhas who had assembled at the site of the modern Mahiyangana stupa. The Buddha is said to have appeared at the Meenaga garden, the customary meeting place of the Yakkhas and dispersed them to an island named Giridivaina. Afterwards the Buddha preached the Dhamma to the Gods who had gathered there and as a result, some of the Gods attained Margapala. After hearing the Dhamma, the Prince of Devas: Mahasumana of the Samanthakuta mountain asked the Buddha for something to worship and the Buddha gave ...

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Town located in the Badulla District of Sri Lanka – ‘ Mahiyanganaya ‘ – By Malsha – eLanka Mahiyanganaya is a town located in the Badulla District of Sri Lanka. It is situated in the Uva Province, which is in the central part of the country. Mahiyanganaya is known for its historical and religious significance. One of the most significant landmarks in Mahiyanganaya is the Mahiyangana Raja Maha Vihara, which is an ancient Buddhist temple. According to Buddhist tradition, Lord Buddha visited Mahiyanganaya during his third visit to Sri Lanka, and it is believed that he left a sacred hair relic at the temple. The Mahiyangana Raja Maha Vihara is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists and attracts many devotees. Apart from its religious importance, Mahiyanganaya is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes. The town is situated near the Maduru Oya National Park, which is known for its diverse flora and ...

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The oldest existing ethnic group in Sri Lanka – Vedda – by Nadeeka – eLanka The last Adivasi population in Sri Lanka is the Vedi people. Scholars believe that their existence dates back to 16,000 BC. But since the legends about their existence have not been fully documented, we examine this based on two theories. According to the Mahawanshaya, they are descended from the direct descendants of Vijaya, the first king in Lanka history who came from India. The people of the country were constantly oppressed by the misbehavior of Prince Vijaya, the eldest son of King Sinhabhahu in India. Also, Prince Vijaya had 500 companions to support him.No matter how much King Sinhabhahu reprimanded, there was no lack of actions of Prince Vijaya. So finally, In the end, King Sinhabhahu chased Prince Vijaya’s 500 companions out of India in ships. This group reached the shores of Tambapanni in Lanka. ...

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Stories Behind Names of Places in Sri Lanka ULHITIYAWA – By Dr. Nimal Sedera Source: Brisbane Sri Lankan Newsletter – Dæhæna – June 2022 Ulhitiyawa is a famous village situated in Mahiyanganaya. Ulhitiyawa became famous with the commencement of the Mahaweli Ganga development project for it was a key launching point of the programme The formation of the name of this village is also linked to a story of Sinhala Kings. There lived a petty officer appointed by the state to attend to the needs of the people of this area. Instead of helping the people he was extremely rude to the people abusing his powers. The people were very angry with him. Suddenly, this person fell badly ill and needed the help of the people of the village for his existence. People were in some ways were happy of his sickness and thought that it was the curse of ...

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