Relics for Tilorien Monastery

The abbot of Haburugala Monastery in Sewanagala in south Sri Lanka, the Venerable Bhikkhu Sulakkhana, has been so kind to offer Tilorien Monastery some of the Buddha relics discovered at the archaeological excavations at this monastery. These excavations have unveiled significant relics linked to the revered figure “Mittakala Maharahat.” Revered as the teacher responsible for nurturing arahats (enlightened beings) in the region, Mittakala Maharahat played a pivotal role in spreading Buddhism in Sri Lanka. Among the discoveries are physical relics associated with the Buddha, carefully preserved by Mittakala Arahat for veneration.

Believed to be the foremost disciple of Arahant Mihindu, the son of Indian Emperor Dharmasoka, Mittakalaka’s teachings contributed to the enlightenment of numerous individuals. Situated in the village of Haburugala, the forest monastery, established during the era of Mittakala Maharahat and King Devanam Piyatissa, had remained abandoned for a millennium until its revival in 2018 under the guidance of Sulakkhana Bhikkhu.

Recent archaeological endeavors at the monastery’s main stupas have yielded remarkable finds, including relics attributed to Mittakala Arahat and the alms bowl used by the revered figure during his lifetime. Among the discoveries are physical relics associated with the Buddha, carefully preserved by Mittakala Arahat for veneration, along with relics of Arahant Mihindu.

Furthermore, the excavations have unearthed physical relics of nearly 3000 enlightened monks, shedding light on the monastery’s profound spiritual heritage and the legacy of enlightenment fostered by Mittakala Maharahat in the southern reaches of Sri Lanka. Relics were all carbon-dated to establish their age.

 

Yesterday, the relics were brought to Kiri Wehera Stupa for a puja ceremony. Kiri Wehera is among the Solosmasthana, the 16 most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage sites of ancient Sri Lanka. This stupa probably dates back to the 3rd century BC and is believed to have been built by King Mahanaga brother of King Devanampiyatissa.

The relics will now start their long journey from Sri Lanka and will be offered at Tilorien Monastery at the Vesak celebrations in May.

With much gratitude for this amazing offering to Venerable Bhikkhu Sulakkhana and to the lay supporters who have been so kind to offer to collect and bring the Buddha relics to Europe.

Ven. Vimala Bhikkhu*ni
and the Samita Board 🙏🙏🙏