Sandakada Pahana - The Moonstone

    “Sandakada Pahana” is an unique feature of sinhalese architecture. It is described as Moonstone because of its shape but it is really a semi circular stone doorstep set up at the entrance of “Vihara” and “Stupa”. Sandakada Pahana was first seen in Anuradhapura period and later through Polonnaruwa, Gampola and Kandyan period. The main features of Sandakada Pahana are, half lotus in center, row of geese, a foiated pattern and procession of animals. Moonstone in Anuradhapura and Polonnaru era are more famous than others. The most richer moonstones in Anuradhapura era consist of there outer edge is designed with a ring of flames and below that ring filled with 4 types of animals called the elephant, the horse, the lion and the bull chasing each other. 

    Some moonstones shows these beasts in their own semi circular band. The next circle shows wavy stem with foliage called “Liyawela” and next line with swans with a flower and leaf on their mouth or geese. Next is again floral pattern and at the center is lotus with petals all around the semi circle on the moonstone. There is small difference between Anuradhapura and Polonnaru era’s moonstones called the absence of bull in animal band due to the influence of Hindus. According to the Buddhism, each of circles in moonstone denote several aspects of human life. Outer ring of fire represents the never ending life with pain which are associated with life. Band of animals represents the never ending circle of life which means never ending circle of birth(elephant), decay(bull), disease(lion) and death(horse). The geese or swans shows the distinction between good and bad. Finally, lotus petals are key feature of moonstone. Lotus consider as sacred flower by Buddhists as it figures to symbolize important events in life of Buddha. All these together, moonstones denotes the “Chathurarya sathya” preached by Lord Buddha.