Sri Ram Bodha Hanuman Temple, Srilanka

Address

Nuvarelia,

Sri Lanka.

Phone: +94522259645

Moolavar

Sri Ram Bodha Hanuman

Introduction

The Rambotha (Irampodai) Anjaneya Temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and is situated in the highlands of Sri Lanka. Located atop a hill near Rambotha town on the Kambalai–Nuwara Eliya main road in the Nuwara Eliya District, this temple was established in 2001. It is managed by the Sri Lanka Chinmaya Monastery.

Puranic Significance:

Divine Encounter: The establishment of the Rambotha Anjaneya Temple is linked to a significant event involving His Holiness Swami Chinmayananda. While returning from a program in Nuwara Eliya, Swamiji’s vehicle unexpectedly stopped at this location, despite no mechanical issues. He sensed the divine presence of Hanuman and decided to build a temple at this auspicious site.
Historical Context: The area, named Rama Bodha (meaning Rama’s army or power), is believed to be the site where Lord Rama arranged his army divisions. This belief adds a layer of historical and spiritual significance to the temple. Although there are several temples dedicated to various deities in Sri Lanka, Swamiji envisioned an exclusive temple for Hanuman, leading to the creation of this temple through the Chinmaya Mission.
Idol and Consecration: Sculptor Muthiah from Mahabalipuram crafted a towering 16-foot idol of Hanuman, which was installed first. The temple construction followed, and the consecration ceremony took place on April 8, 2001.

Special Features:

Sacred Spot: The temple is located at the exact spot where Hanuman is believed to have first set foot in Sri Lanka. This adds to its spiritual allure and significance.
Sundara Canto: The Sundara Canto of the Ramayana, which narrates events that occurred in Sri Lanka, is considered of supreme importance. Temples like Seethai Amman Koil, Munneswaram Koil, and Ramalingaswami Koil, which predate this temple, reflect the longstanding worship of deities associated with Rama and Hanuman.

Belief:

Devotee Offerings: Devotees believe that Hanuman grants their wishes. Common offerings include garlands made of betel leaves and butter, which are presented to the deity in hopes of receiving blessings and fulfilling desires.

Festivals:

Hanuman Jayanti: The temple celebrates Hanuman Jayanti with devotion, marking the birth of Hanuman and drawing numerous devotees to seek his blessings.