Historical Background of Kadudevola
The Siddha Rankadu Paththini Devalaya, also known as Kadudevola, is located on a scenic hillock facing the Kelani River, along the road stretching from the centre of Kaduwela town to Avissawella. It is believed that, if not for this sacred Devalaya, the town of Kaduwela itself would not have come into existence. According to historical sources, the name Kaduwela derives from the Kadudevola Paththini Devalaya, making it one of the rare towns in Sri Lanka named after a Devalaya. Although some believe that Kadudevola belongs to the Seethawaka or Kandyan periods, historical evidence suggests that its origins extend even further back.
The worship of Goddess Paththini became formally established in Sri Lanka during the reign of King Parakramabahu VI. This is clearly supported by studies of ancient ola leaf manuscripts such as Devalaya Neethiya, Devalaya Upatha, and references in the Kokila Sandeshaya. During this reign, Kadudevola was included in the register of temple lands (Vihara Asna)
Kadudevola rose to prominence once again during the Seethawaka period, when it functioned as a fortress under King Seethawaka Rajasinghe. Following the collapse of the Seethawaka Kingdom in 1592 AD, Kadudevola fell out of Sinhalese control by 1632 AD. The next written historical record of Kadudevola appears in 1800 AD, in a report by Captain Robert Percival, who was in charge of the 19th British Regiment. His account notes that while marching towards Kandy to suppress a rebellion against the Dutch in 1797 AD, his regiment was attacked by Sinhalese forces concealed in the Kadudevola area.
Kadudevola is believed to have been re-established around 1812, during the latter part of the Kandyan period. Numerous folk traditions attest to this revival, which is further affirmed by the Esala Perahera, a sacred procession that has been conducted continuously for over 211 years.
Dedicated to Goddess Paththini and protected by God Manik Bandara, a guardian deity devoted to her service, the Siddha Rankadu Paththini Devalaya holds immense historical and spiritual significance spanning over 550 years. The shrine preserves sacred ornaments of Goddess Paththini, including her divine ornaments, anklets, and the golden sword used annually in the Diya Kapeema ceremony. Revered as a place of profound spiritual power, the Devalaya remains a centre of faith, devotion, and blessing.
May the divine blessings of Goddess Paththini and the sacred power of Kadudevola bring health, prosperity, and protection to the nation and the world.
May the blessings of Goddess Sath Paththini be with you!
May the Triple Gem bless you!
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