| Natha Devale | |
|---|---|
නාථ දේවාලය | |
 Entrance | |
| Religion | |
| Affiliation | Buddhism |
| District | Kandy District |
| Province | Central Province |
| Deity | Natha |
| Location | |
| Location | Kandy |
| Country | Sri Lanka |
  Shown within Sri Lanka | |
| Coordinates | 7°17′39″N80°38′26″E / 7.2942°N 80.6405°E /7.2942; 80.6405 |
| Designated | 8 April 2009 |
TheNātha Devāla is a historic shrine located on the terrace in front of theRoyal Palace complex inKandy, Sri Lanka. Tradition holds that the shrine existed even before the arrival of theTooth Relic in Kandy. It is considered the oldest surviving structure in the city and is believed to have been constructed byKing Vikramabahu III in the 14th century.[1]
The origins of the worship of the deity Natha remain unclear. The name "Nātha" in Pali and Sanskrit literally means "lord" or "protector," and is generally locally associated withMaitreya, the future Buddha.[2]
During the period of theKingdom of Kandy, the shrine played an important role in royal ceremonies. Kings traditionally received their royal names at the Nātha Devāla. TheBodhisattvaAvalokiteśvara, venerated as a healer, was also worshipped here, and until recent times the distribution of herbal preparations on New Year’s Day formed part of the shrine’s traditions. For this reason, Avalokiteśvara is closely associated with the Nātha Devāla.
In the annualEsala Perahera, the procession of the Nātha Devāla occupies a prominent position, following immediately after theDalada Perahera.
To the north of the Nātha Devāla lies the Vishnu Devale, situated within the inner palace complex. This shrine is dedicated to the godVishnu, one of the Hindu Trimurti, who is revered in Sri Lanka as a guardian deity ofBuddhism. He is considered the divine protector of the island, and by extension, of the Buddhist faith itself.[3]
According to Buddhist tradition, theBuddha prophesied that his teachings would endure for 5,000 years.[4] More than 2,500 years of that period have already passed. Devotees believe that Natha continues to play a role in safeguarding Buddhism from the forces ofMāra, sending celestial beings to protect the faith on earth.
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