Page 17 - 1 set ART MAGAZINE -2
P. 17
Serenity Unveiled:
Exploring the Mystical Marvels of Gangaramaya
July 2023
Colombo, it blends traditional and modern elements. It is built on three platforms connected by pontoon
bridges over water. The main roof is adorned with blue
The Seema Malaka was originally constructed in the
late 19th century. tiles, and the structure features collected spindles and
handrails with wooden finishes.
Visitors can enjoy the tranquility of the
surroundings, meditate, and participate in religious Inside, you’ll find numerous seated Buddha
observances. The annual upasampada karmaya, the statues in different mudras (poses). A sacred Bo tree,
ordination ceremony of monks is held here. Seema grown from a branch of Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya in
Malaka provides a peaceful retreat in the heart of Anuradhapura, stands on one side. Small shrines
Colombo, visible from Sir James Peiris Road. dedicated to gods Shiva, Vishnu, Kataragama, Ganesha,
and Guanyin can also be found.
The present-day Seema Malaka was constructed
Seema Malaka’s design and surroundings create a
serene atmosphere, providing visitors with a glimpse into
the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka in a compact and
peaceful setting.
As visitors enter
the gallery, they Art Gallery and Museum
are taken on a The Photo Gallery is another unique feature of
the temple. It was opened in 2011 by then President
chronological journey
Mahinda Rajapaksa. This Photo Gallery showcases a
through the country’s valuable collection of Buddhist paintings, making it a
historical periods. From the haven for art lovers. It was funded by a devoted follower
Mrs. Moosajee, and designed by Prof. Sadev Wittachy.
Classical Period (3rd century
Over a span of 45 years, Dr. Hewapathirane carefully
BC to the 13th century CE) to
curated the collection, featuring pictures of Buddhist
the changing capitals era, the paintings from cultural and religious sites across the
Kandy Period of Buddhist art country.
revival, and the Modern Period As visitors enter the gallery, they are taken on a
chronological journey through the country’s historical
showcasing art from present-
periods. From the Classical Period (3rd century BC to
day temples, such as Kelaniya the 13th century CE) to the changing capitals era, the
Raja Maha Viharaya, Bellanwila Kandy Period of Buddhist art revival, and the Modern
Period showcasing art from present-day temples, such as
Viharaya, and Gotami Viharaya.
Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya, Bellanwila Viharaya, and
Gotami Viharaya.
The gallery aims to educate and inspire visitors about
in 1979, funded by Mr. and Mrs. Moosajee, a Muslim the country’s rich history, encouraging them to explore
family, as a tribute to their late son Ameer S. Moosajee. the featured locations and witness the ancient paintings
It replaced the previous structure, which had slowly firsthand.
sunk.
Step into the museum the visitors will be greeted
The redesigned Seema Malaka by Geoffrey Bawa, by an array of remarkable treasures. Buddha statues
inspired by ancient monasteries in Anuradhapura and representing various influences, along with valuable
Ritigala, showcases a Kandyan-era architectural style. furniture and artifacts, grace the exhibits. In a separate
