A forgotten past
Veherabandigala
is believed to have been built during the third and fourth century, according
to the formation deciphered in two aged and weatherworn inscriptions at the
site. Through the worn-out letters, experts have come to deem that the complex
was most likely built by King Gothakabhaya, also known as Meghavanna Abhaya.
The
multitude of structures scattered throughout the complex are Padhanaghras or
Meditation Houses as suggested by the labels pegged at most edifices. It is
said that during ancient times the Temple grounds encompassed an area of 85
acres. From which only about 30 acres have been uncovered today while the rest
are hidden deep within the thick jungle, covering the periphery of the
uncovered area. Some of these Padhanagharas seemed to be larger than others and
is believed to have been accommodation of monks. According to historians about
300 such Padhanagharas are located in Veherabandigala.
If you visit
here, when you following the narrow winding paths, at times you can observe
scattered remnants – such as olden toilet stones, altars – and unusual patterns
that differed from the typical Padhanaghara designs at Veherabandigala. When
you are observing this place you will come across some of the most unique
structure of all. This building is a Jantaghara, or a room reminiscent of a
present day sauna. The walls of this structure is much higher and in the middle
there is a square hollow that could have served as a place to either light a
fire or to keep water. It is said that this building functioned as a space for
relaxation for monks long ago, where they came to rejuvenate after applying
medicinal herbs.
When the sun
dappled ground with grass softening the hard soil below, it presents an
inviting expanse to sit and enjoy the shade of the innumerable trees. The
greenery over here seemed to possess a quality of being evergreen despite the
harsh rays of the sun. A stupa, built of brick dominated the site while more
edifices spread the extent of the temple grounds. Still more were hidden in the
shrubbery area, behind the stupa.
Rasnakewa
Raja Maha Viharaya is dived to two sections which are the upper and lower
terrace, the temple is believed to have been built in the time of King Makavana
Abaya (254-332 AD) for Arahats. To one side of the lower terrace, under a tree
there is a great stone slab which proved to be a flower altar. A fascinating
tale tells of the origination of the name of the temple that at one time had 12
villages conferred. Long ago when people in the villages made sweet meats and
other cuisines, they had first offered a portion to the temple before tasting
the food. Therefore, the temple was knows as the ‘Rasa Nokawa’ or ‘Not having
tested’, which later had become Rasnakewa.
