From Sacred Memory to Living Heritage: Ritual Continuity at Sri Lankan Stupas

Chaamindri Fernando

Stupas in Sri Lanka originated as memorial monuments enshrining relics of the Buddha and arahants, functioning as material expressions of sacred memory and doctrinal presence. While rooted in funerary traditions that signify both absence and continuity, stupas today occupy diverse positions within archaeological and heritage management frameworks. Some are preserved primarily as archaeological remains, while others continue to function as active religious centres shaped by everyday ritual practice and community stewardship. This paper examines how selected Sri Lankan stupas move beyond their commemorative role to operate as living heritage sites sustained through continuous community engagement. Using comparative examples, it explores how practices such as daily offerings, pilgrimage, almsgiving, ritual processions, and collective restoration projects continually reactivate sacred space and reinforce local responsibility for site care. By contrasting actively worshipped stupas with those managed mainly through formal conservation regimes, the study highlights how differing degrees of community participation shape heritage meanings and management outcomes. The paper argues that preserving sacred sites in Sri Lanka cannot be achieved solely through institutional policies. Instead, it requires recognition of ritual continuity, shared devotion, and people-centred engagement as integral components of archaeological heritage management. In doing so, the study contributes to broader discussions on balancing protection and livingness at religious sites and on developing community-based approaches to the management of sacred archaeological heritage.