Ridi Viharaya
Ridi Viharaya, or the Silver Temple, is a significant Theravada Buddhist temple in Ridigama, Sri Lanka, dating back to the 2nd century BCE. It holds historical importance as the site where the silver ore was discovered, which was crucial for the completion of the Ruwanwelisaya stupa. The temple complex was built in gratitude for this discovery and has undergone various expansions and renovations throughout its history.
Key Facts
- ›Founded in the 2nd century BCE during the reign of King Dutthagamani of Anuradhapura.
- ›The temple complex was constructed in gratitude for the discovery of silver ore used to complete the Ruwanwelisaya stupa.
- ›Features the Maha Viharaya, the oldest building, located within the Rajatha lena (silver cave) where the ore was found.
- ›Houses a 9-meter recumbent Buddha statue and Dutch era 'Bible tiles' depicting biblical scenes.
- ›The Uda Viharaya, from the Kandyan era, features a unique semi-circular Sandakada pahana (moonstone) and distinctive Makara Thorana.
- ›The temple was revived in the 18th century CE during the reign of Kirti Sri Rajasinha of Kandy.
Important Relationships
- Dutthagamani of Anuradhapura
- Ruwanwelisaya
- Kirti Sri Rajasinha of Kandy
- Arhat Mahinda
- Arhat Indragupta
Rajatha Lena, 9-Meter Recumbent Buddha Statue, Dutch Era 'Bible Tiles', Unique Semi-Circular Sandakada Pahana, Makara Thorana With Two Dragons, Pancha Nari Ghataya Sculpture, Waraka Welandu Viharaya
- Discovery of Silver Ore Crucial For Ruwanwelisaya Construction
- Construction of the Temple Complex By King Dutthagamani
- Revival and Additions During the Reign of Kirti Sri Rajasinha of Kandy
Anuradhapura Period, Polonnaruwa Period, Kandyan Era, Hindu Influenced
About Ridi Viharaya
Ridi Viharaya: The Silver Temple of Sri Lanka
Ridi Viharaya, commonly known as the Silver Temple, is a significant Theravada Buddhist temple located in the village of Ridigama, Sri Lanka. Its origins trace back to the 2nd century BCE, a period marked by the reign of King Dutthagamani of Anuradhapura. The temple holds a place of considerable historical and religious importance, primarily due to its connection with the construction of Ruwanwelisaya, one of Sri Lanka's largest and most revered stupas.
Historical Context and Founding
The chronicles of Sri Lanka, including the Mahavamsa and Thupavamsa, recount the story of Ridi Viharaya's establishment. King Dutthagamani, after his victory over Tamil prince Ellalan, embarked on the ambitious project of building the Ruwanwelisaya stupa. The construction required substantial amounts of silver for its basement. It is said that merchants traveling through the Ridigama area discovered a rich vein of silver ore. Upon informing the king, he was overjoyed. In a gesture of profound gratitude for this discovery, which enabled the completion of his dream project, King Dutthagamani ordered the construction of a temple complex on the site of the silver discovery. This endeavor involved a large workforce, including 300 masons and 700 laborers, under the supervision of his chief artisan, Vishwakarma Prathiraja.
Architectural and Artistic Significance
The Ridi Viharaya complex is a testament to centuries of architectural evolution and artistic expression. The oldest structure within the complex is the Maha Viharaya, situated inside the Rajatha lena, or silver cave, believed to be the very location of the silver ore discovery. This cave houses an impressive 9-meter recumbent Buddha statue and is adorned with rare Dutch era "Bible tiles," featuring biblical narratives and figures, which were a gift from a Dutch envoy to King Kirti Sri Rajasinha. The temple walls and roofs are richly decorated with paintings depicting various incidents from the life of Gautama Buddha, though some frescos remain unfinished.
Another notable section is the Uda Viharaya, dating from the Kandyan era. It features a seated Buddha statue with a unique Makara Thorana, from which two dragons emerge on either side of the Buddha's shoulders—a design unparalleled elsewhere. The Uda Viharaya also boasts a semi-circular Sandakada pahana, or moonstone, which deviates from the more common triangular designs of the Kandy period. Sculptures of Hindu deities are also found around the main statue, indicating syncretic influences.
Later Developments and Revival
While the temple's origins lie in the Anuradhapura period, it experienced a significant revival in the 18th century CE during the reign of King Kirti Sri Rajasinha of Kandy. During this period, the Uda Viharaya was added to the complex, along with several affiliated devalas, such as the Kumara Bandara Devalaya and Paththini Devalaya. Today, Ridi Viharaya falls under the Malwatte chapter of Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka, continuing its legacy as a place of worship and historical significance.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Ridi Viharaya founded?
Ridi Viharaya was founded in the 2nd century BCE, during the reign of King Dutthagamani of Anuradhapura. This makes it one of the ancient Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka.
What is the historical significance of Ridi Viharaya?
Its primary significance lies in the discovery of silver ore at the site, which was essential for the construction of the Ruwanwelisaya stupa. The temple complex was built as an expression of gratitude for this vital resource.
What are the main attractions at Ridi Viharaya?
Key attractions include the Maha Viharaya within the silver cave, featuring a large recumbent Buddha statue and rare Dutch 'Bible tiles'. The Uda Viharaya is notable for its unique moonstone and dragon-adorned Makara Thorana.
When was the temple revived?
The temple complex saw a revival in the 18th century CE, during the reign of King Kirti Sri Rajasinha of Kandy. New additions like the Uda Viharaya and affiliated devalas were established during this period.
What architectural styles can be seen at Ridi Viharaya?
The temple exhibits a blend of architectural styles, including elements from the Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Kandyan, and even Dutch eras. Hindu influences are also visible in some of the decorative carvings.
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