Buddama Raja Maha Vihara

Buddama Raja Maha Vihara is a significant historic cave temple situated in Buddama village, within the Monaragala district of Sri Lanka. Formally recognized by the government as an archaeological site, it is distinguished by its ancient origins and historical importance within the island's Buddhist heritage. The village of Buddama itself is known as one of the country's earliest settlements, lending further historical weight to the temple's location.

History and Patronage

The establishment of Buddama Raja Maha Vihara dates back to the 3rd century BC, as documented in the great chronicle Mahawamsa and confirmed by inscriptions found on the temple premises. Further accounts in Uva Viharawamsa highlight its veneration by early Buddhists. Intriguingly, before its function as a Buddhist monastery, the site is believed to have served as a vocational training center for local craftsmen, predating the formal introduction of Buddhism to the country during the Anuradhapura period. The temple has benefited from royal patronage throughout its history, with inscriptions detailing donations of villages by King Udaya I (883–896). King Parakramabahu I (1153–1186) further cemented its importance by creating administrative divisions centered around Buddama Temple. Later renovations were undertaken during the Kandyan period by King Sri Wickrama Rajasingha (1747–1781).

Architectural Features and Artistry

The temple complex comprises more than twenty caves, with the primary rock cave being a notable feature. This main chamber, though not exceptionally high, is drip-ledged and houses a rich collection of mural paintings and sculptures characteristic of the Kandyan style. The entrance is graced by a Makara Thorana (Dragon's Arch) constructed from clay. Inside the main chamber, visitors can observe a reclining Buddha statue alongside several seated Buddha statues. The main Buddha statue is attributed to King Rajadhi Rajasingha. The cave's canopy is elaborately decorated with various floral designs, while the walls vividly depict Buddhist Jathaka stories, offering insights into Buddhist narratives and artistic traditions.

Inscriptions

An important inscription found within the Buddama cave complex, dating between the 3rd century BC and 1st century AD, is written in early Brahmi script in Old Sinhala. This inscription records the donation of a cave to the Buddhist Sangha by a teacher named Gupta, who was the grandson of village councilor Vasabha and the son of Sumana. This provides tangible evidence of the temple's early religious and administrative activities.