My visit to Sri Lanka ( part-10)
By Lokanath Mishra:
On 26.12.24 Visited the Muthuramalingam Temple (Murgayan Temple) in Colombo.
The Muthuramalingam Temple, commonly known as the Murgayan Temple, is a revered Hindu temple located on Sea Road in Colombo, Sri Lanka. This temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan, a prominent deity in Hinduism, and is one of the oldest and most sacred Hindu temples in Colombo.
The Murgayan Temple has a rich history dating back to the 19th century. The temple was built by military personnel of south Indian and Odisha who came to Sri Lanka during the second world wars in British colonial era and stayed in Sri Lanka permanently. Over time, the temple has become an important center of Hindu worship and culture in Colombo.
The Murgayan Temple is a beautiful example of Dravidian and odiya mixed architecture, with intricate carvings and ornate decorations. The temple’s main deity is prabhu Kartikeya , who is revered as the god of war and wisdom. The temple also houses other deities, including Lord Ganesha, Lord Shiva, and Goddess Durga.
The Murgayan Temple is known for its vibrant festivals and celebrations, which attract devotees from all over Colombo. Some of the notable festivals celebrated at the temple include:
Thaipusam: A festival commemorating Lord Murugan’s victory over the demon Soorapadman.
Navaratri: A nine-day festival celebrating the divine feminine energy.
Deepavali: The Hindu festival of lights, which symbolizes the triumph of good over evil.
The Murgayan Temple is open to visitors and devotees throughout the year. Visitors are expected to dress modestly and remove their shoes before entering the temple. The temple’s priests and devotees are warm and welcoming, and visitors can participate in various rituals and ceremonies.
In conclusion, the Muthuramalingam Temple (Murgayan Temple) is a sacred Hindu site in Colombo that offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka’s Hindu community.
I also visited on 26.12.24 the famous Gangarama Temple in Colombo: A Sacred Buddhist Site and a Marvel of Architecture.
The Gangarama Temple is a renowned Buddhist temple located in the heart of Colombo, Sri Lanka. This temple is one of the most iconic and revered Buddhist sites in the country, attracting devotees and tourists alike. Prabhu Shri Ganesh is being worshipped in this temple.
The Gangarama Temple was established in 1885 by Devundara Sri Jinaratana Nayaka Thero, a Buddhist monk who played a significant role in promoting Buddhism in Sri Lanka during the colonial era. The temple has since become a center of Buddhist learning, culture, and worship.
The Gangarama Temple is a stunning example of Buddhist architecture, blending traditional Sri Lankan and Chinese styles. The temple complex features a range of buildings, including the main shrine room, a museum, a library, and a relic chamber. The temple’s interior is adorned with intricate carvings, vibrant paintings, and ornate decorations.
The Gangarama Temple offers a range of attractions and activities for visitors, including:
– The temple’s museum, which features a collection of Buddhist artifacts, artworks, and relics.
– The relic chamber, which houses a sacred relic of Lord Buddha.
– The temple’s library, which contains a vast collection of Buddhist scriptures and texts.
– The temple’s peaceful gardens and courtyards, which offer a serene atmosphere for meditation and contemplation.
The Gangarama Temple is known for its vibrant festivals and celebrations, which attract devotees from all over Sri Lanka. Some of the notable festivals celebrated at the temple include:
– Vesak: A festival commemorating the birth, enlightenment, and passing away of Lord Buddha.
– Poson: A festival celebrating the introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka.
– Esala: A festival commemorating the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha.
The Gangarama Temple is open to visitors throughout the year. Visitors are expected to dress modestly and remove their shoes before entering the temple. The temple’s monks and devotees are warm and welcoming, and visitors can participate in various rituals and ceremonies.
In conclusion, the Gangarama Temple is a sacred Buddhist site in Colombo that offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage. Its stunning architecture, vibrant artwork, and peaceful atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Buddhism, culture, and history.
In Gangaram temple, I have come to know that at present there is a road near the gangaram temple namely, the Sri Jinaratana Road. In year 1890 to 1940 in the Gangarama Temple, there was a Odia pujari who organized the car festival of Lord Jagannath around gangaram temple. Hence the road was previously known as Sri Jaganath Rath Road which is a testament to the significant influence of Odia culture and traditions in Colombo during the late 19th century. The presence of an Odia pujari at the Gangarama Temple, worshiping Lord Ganesh and organizing the car festival of Lord Jagannath, highlights the cultural exchange and diversity that existed in the region.
It’s also interesting to note the proximity of Hanuman Lake Road to Sri Jinaratana Road, which suggests a connection between the two roads and the cultural traditions they represent.
Finally on 26.12.24 , I have stayed at ITC Hotel Colombo, which is known as ITC Ratnadipa, this is a luxurious 5-star hotel located in the heart of Colombo, nestled between the Indian Ocean and Beira Lake . This stunning property offers breathtaking views of the ocean and the lake, making it an ideal choice for leisure travelers. The hotel features 352 elegantly designed rooms and suites, each equipped with private balconies offering stunning water views .
Colombo boasts an array of dining options, including Avartana, a fine dining restaurant serving Southern Indian cuisine, and Yi Jing, offering Asian culinary traditions . The hotel features an infinity pool, a fitness center, and a spa, offering a range of treatments, including Ayurvedic and international therapies.
Overall, in all Hotels of Sri Lanka, where I stayed during my visit are very fantastic for my luxurious stay and made these as memorable stay .