The guardian river of gems
Softly flowing through the greenery in the backdrop of the seven
hills of the Kataragama landscape, the Menik Ganga had been the guardian
and devotee of the sacred shrines and Gods for many centuries. Not only
had it quenched the thirst of many a traveller, cleansed the bodies of
many a devotee but it had also nurtured and brought immense wealth into
the lives of the villagers.
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Menik Ganga Picture by Saman Sri Wedage |
Water was always considered an important source for life.
Civilization emerged on the banks of rivers for they offered the
citizens with food and drink while providing them with a source of
income.
Ancient sources reveal that some rivers are considered sacred. The
river Neranjana is highly significant for Buddhists because Prince
Siddhartha's Great Renunciation took place on the river bank. Likewise
in India both Ganga and Jamuna are upheld with respect by the Hindus.
The river Jordan, Nile and the Sea of Galilee are of significance to
Christians while holy scriptures have mentioned the rivers Euphrates and
Tigris. Similarly in Sri Lanka water cutting ceremonies signify the
prominent role played by the river in connection with Buddhism.
Years ago when pilgrims made their way on bullock carts to the banks
of the Menik Ganga they were greeted with a Sangili Palama (swinging
bridge made of metal and wood). Today, with modern techniques striding
in, the bridge had been replaced by a cement bridge.
Sadly modernization had touched the depths of the river as well for
it had almost dried up due to lack of rain. Its sandy depths were
visible, barely knee deep in some places, so much so that one can't help
wondering if it signifies the twilight years of a sacred relic which
once flowed majestically to greet thousands of pilgrims making their
journey up the valleys to seek the compassion of the immortals. - RJ |
