The Sandarawala Story: Legend of the Golden Guardian
Just a few days ago, a fascinating story resurfaced from Sandarawala, a village near Baddegama, where locals speak of a mysterious guardian spirit who protects an ancient treasure said to lie beneath the earth. This is more than a local myth; it's a window into the deep history of Sri Lanka's south.
The Ancient Origins
It is believed that this sacred site dates back to the era of **King Kavantissa**, the father of King Dutugemunu, one of Sri Lanka’s most celebrated rulers. According to legend, King Kavantissa built a reservoir connected to the Keembiya canal to distribute water to the paddy fields.
A golden gate was once placed to release water, which led the villagers to call the place **“Randorawala”** (Golden Gate Pond). Over time, through local dialect and history, this name elegantly evolved into **Sandarawala**.
The Hidden Treasure and the Spirit of Sandara
When King Dutugemunu marched from Ruhuna to Anuradhapura, one of King Elara’s generals fled south with his men and settled near Baddegama. They looted Buddhist temples and hid their treasures in the Sandarawala area.
Before being captured by King Dutugemunu’s forces, the general entrusted his loyal servant Sandara with the secret of the hidden treasure, and then took his own life to protect it.
It is said that **Sandara** too died nearby, and his spirit — now known as **“Aada”**, the golden guardian — still protects the treasure buried within the pond. Villagers believe that this being appears as a mighty creature, larger than a palm tree, guarding the entrance to the ancient gold chamber. Anyone who tries to harm or disturb this guardian faces mysterious misfortune.
A Living Heritage of Baddegama
For centuries, villagers have treated Sandarawala with deep reverence. They avoid fishing or disturbing the waters, believing that the guardian spirit still resides beneath the surface. Those who have tried to take treasures from the pond are said to have met tragic ends — proof, they say, that the Aada protects what rightfully belongs to the past.
Farmers in ancient times had a powerful tradition: when drought struck, they would **stir the waters of Sandarawala Pond** to summon rain. Each time they did, heavy rainfall soon followed — strengthening the belief that the **pond and its guardian spirit control nature itself.**
Today, **Sandarawala** remains not only a place of legend but also a symbol of Sri Lanka’s deep historical and cultural roots. Near the site stands the **Dutugemunu Raja Maha Viharaya**, an ancient temple that reflects the living Buddhist tradition of the region. This sacred land, filled with mystery and spirituality, continues to inspire visitors who seek to uncover the untold stories of Sri Lanka’s south.
0 Comments