Srikaileswaram, Colombo






    Srikaileswaram Temple,  Kappithavathai,  Colombo. This  is  the oldest Hindu temple in Colombo consecrated in the  year 1783 by Vanniga  Vysya Chettiar community. In the  last quarter of 18th century Ceylon was ruled by Dutch people. The  Chettiar community earliest Indian settlers to emigrate to  Sri Lanka settled in Colombo in the  area called  Captain  Gardens  which has now turned to  Kappithavathai. They were trading in Pepper, Kopra, Oil, Coconut  and Coir. They exported the goods to  Goa Nagapattinam, Trivandrum, Karaikal. Intially they installed an Idol of Siva Linga in their Gardens and worshipped. But over a period of time  a small temple was built in the garden of Veerabhadran  Chettiar around 1783 and worship was done as per Siva Agamas. The  old temple has been fully renovated in the  last 50 years. The  Ambal here is called  Karunakadashi and is facing south. Kailasanathar the main deity is facing East in Linga form.  There are separate shrines for Murugan, Vinayagar and Navagrahas. The  temple is managed by the  Vanniga Vysya Sabhai of Colombo.  Had the opportunity to visit the temple on Sani Pradosham day.  Many Sinhalese were also seen visiting the  Temple. 

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