Muhudu Maha Vihara – Potuvil
From TheBuddhism.Net
The boat which carried King Kelanitissa’s daughter Vihara Maha Devi had landed on the Potuvil beach in the Eastern province; not at Kirinda in the South as some say. King Kawantissa, who married the princess, later built a Buddhist shrine here. The ruins of an image house with standing statues of Buddha, King Kawantissa and Queen Vihara Maha Devi and a toilet complex with a urinal stone is still there. A statue of Queen Vihara Maha Devi has been built on the beach in the recent times.
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Source: http://www.thebuddhism.net/2012/09/04/muhudu-maha-vihara-potuvil/#more-629
Muhudu Maha Viharaya is a Buddhist temple situated at Pottuvil, Eastern province of Sri Lanka. This temple which is situated near a wide beach, has been built over 2000 years ago. Currently the ruins and remains of ancient stupas and statues can be seen at the site. Important ruins at the temple premises include stone statues of lord Buddha and two statues . . Many locals and tourist are impressed with the nature around than the temple itself
As the Buddha statutes and the stupa is classic with beautiful ocean view, an interesting landscape. The temple seem to have been built in the fifth century AD by King Mahanama, and legend behind these beautiful ruins. The great stretch of beach behind the temple is yet to be excavated and is believe to hold many hidden artifacts swept under the sands of times
Thank you for sharing .
This is really beautiful to see the patronage of ancient royalty for the spread and growth of Buddhism. There are not many monarchies and governments left in today’s world that are committed towards the spreading of Buddhism. I can only think of Thailand, Bhutan, Japan, South Korea (perhaps) and perhaps, the exiled Central Tibetan Administration. Now, with the acceptance of Buddhism in China and the government’s involvement in holding international Buddhist conferences, perhaps China may be counted in as well. The bigger the involvement of royalty and governments, the bigger the growth and preservation efforts of the Buddhadharma in their respective countries.
Thanks David that is insightful from you. The leaders of our time now are reduced to using Buddhism as way to calm and focus their minds. May more leaders in the world see the wisdom of Buddha’s words and apply can only benefit them.