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Nawagamuwa Devalaya

Nawagamuwa Devalaya

Nawagamuwa Pattini Devalaya is a historic temple situated in Nawagamuwa, Colombo District, Sri Lanka. The Archaeological Department has declared the Devalaya as a protected monument due to its importance in historical, architectural, and anthropological facets. It is a Buddhist temple primarily dedicated to all the gods. According to legend, King Gajabahu I (114−136) brought the ‘Pattini anklet’ from India after a victorious return with 12,000 prisoners. He built the Devalaya at the spot where he rested during his return to Anuradhapura. Another version suggests that Goddess Pattini arrived from India with 12,000 devotees from 16 castes and settled in this area. Some attribute the temple's origin to Neelaperumal Pandaram, who came from Kerala. Verifiable historical evidence about the Devalaya emerged during the Kotte period. Excavations have revealed building materials, wells, Dutch coins, and iron implements from the Middle Ages. Notable events occurred during the Kotte Period, including the inauguration of Hewagam Korale by King Rajasinha I and King Mayadunne's vow before going to war with the Portuguese in Colombo Fort.

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