Getting away from the busy city life of Colombo, it is just less than two minutes-drive from the Colombo-Galle highway, from the few exits nearby. Going past the Dehiwela Municipality, turning right to Karagampitiya Road, in a scenic location, the Pinwatte temple stands prominently-in a real “pinbima” in the true sense of the word bestowing all benefits to Buddhists living in and around Dehiwela.
Located mid-way in a calm and serene atmosphere, no Buddhist can miss the sacred and holy spot, a proud landmark in the area, giving the devotees the true taste of a sanctified punya bhumi. Passers-by, whether Buddhist or not, admire the glory of the temple. This is one of the oldest temples in Dehiwala.
This sacred venue is supposed to have been founded by Ven. Kirulapane Upananda Thera, in whose name, the Pirivena and Dhamma school have been established and it was headed and continued by his faithful pupil Ven. Benthara Sri Sumanatissa Thera Chief Sanganayaka of Salpitikoralaya. This citadel of wisdom continues to date since then.
There are a number of erudite bhikkhus who have contributed immensely to its success. To name a few, starting with Ven. Kahatuduwe Hemasiri, Ven. Kuruwita Padhumasiri and Ven. Lankananda Theras, and the present chief incumbent, scholarly bhikkhu and retired Vice Principal of Ananda College, Colombo, Ven. Walhaputenne Nandasumana Thera, who have generously patronised Buddhist learning and its revival and restored the name - Punya Bhumi-Pinwatte, hence a unique symbol of religious tradition, providing a devoted service for nearly two centuries.
Sacred venue
The reason why I am so taken up by the sacred venue is simply due to the fact that, this is where I have been visiting since my arrival in Dehiwela, 60 years ago referring to it as “Our Temple”. My late parents were faithful Dayakas of the temple from early days and so do we, living down the First Lane. It was a delight to take a walk to the temple crossing the Colombo-Galle highway.
The temple has a multitude of buildings and having all the requisites of a temple conveniently located on the way to Karagampitiya. Prominently displayed at the entrance is the Waahalkada the entrance, solidly constructed as though every devotee is welcomed in. As you step in, there is a serene Buddha statue in a perfect setting with a landscaped bit of a garden.
The original Dhamma hall, found here was replaced by a three-storied structure of religious, educational, and cultural value. This masterpiece was the brainchild of Ven Kuruwita Padumasiri Thera, which was completed by the present Nayaka Thera, Ven. Walhaputenne Nandasumana Thera who should be highly commended for this contribution in making this available to the devotees.
This solidly constructed Dhamma hall is facilitated with all the requirements. A few yards away is the glittering stupa, though not very large in size. Then the Bodhiya with its out-spreading branches with a newly built Ranweta and seating accommodation for the convenience of the worshippers to gain merit.
Further inside is the Dhana Shaala, where the laity could freely use for offerings. Here the temple almsgivings are offered perfectly fine. Then the Sanghawaasa, the newly built residence for the novice and student bhikkhus drawn from various parts of the island. Mention has to be made of the citadel of wisdom - the Pirivena for the student bhikkhus.
The Dhamma school is well-renowned for its high standards in religious education and discipline. All these are conducted in the three-storied Dhamma hall with a large auditorium utilised for the monthly sil campaigns and other important religious functions. The beauty, grandeur and cultural significance are reflected in the entire premises. The Nayaka Thera is the one to bravely champion the present revival of the temple. He is fortunate to have got the support of the faithful devotees giving the strength in all dhamma activities. He along with the junior resident bhikkhus work hard for its journey uphill.
Dhamma activities
The torch lit by the previous erudite bhikkhus was carried forward by Ven. Nandasumana Nayaka Thera preserving the ancient tradition paving the way for the celebration of unique events in the Buddhist world. Among the many religious observances, Paritrana Desana held on the eve of the New Year is of great significance to invoke blessings on the people, residents of Dehiwela in particular. When the chant is conducted with pure love and compassion, it gives expression to religious emotions and its soothing effect creating inner peace devoid of hatred and ill-will, exactly what is currently needed in the country.
A unique symbol of religious tradition coming down from the Buddha’s days, adding charm and simplicity to our religious heritage is accorded a very high position. Having waited in a long waiting list, we were fortunate to have our Katina pooja in 2004. Thanks for those who were responsible.
Another notable feature of the epoch-making event is the Katina procession organised on a grand scale. The Buddhists in and around Dehiwala await the dawn of Vassana to provide the four requisites (Sivupasa) to the Sangha. The morning and mid-day Dhana to the Maha Sangha numbering 50 - 100 are organised and carried out perfectly fine. They perform this noble act to gain merit.
The vast array of activities to herald the most sacred occasions in Buddha Sasana such as Vesak and Poson is held so vivid and beyond imagination. The true meaning of the thrice blessed day is well reflected in the decorations, illuminations, Bakthi Gee recitals and Nelum mal pooja.
Dhamma school activities, the prize-giving of the Dhamma School held annually with distinguished guests gracing the occasion and the students displaying their oratory skills and talents also need mention here. The Nayaka Thera’s accomplishments, various social groups and organisations, vocational guidance, Kulangana Samithi are very active in their performance.
They help the deserving, needy and victims of various calamities by providing them with relief items. Hence the services are endless. Spiritual guidance and modern facilities are tastefully blended in the temple premises. The services thus rendered to the Sasana will never end. The spiritual progress will linger on.