THE ISLAND OF CEYLON. 
209 
superior sanctity, they seem more inclined to hold their great 
festival under the shade of the Bogaha tree, which stands at 
Annarodgburro, an ancient city, in the northern part of the 
king of Candy’s dominions; and none but his own subjects 
are permitted to approach this sanctuary. The Bogaha tree, 
says tradition, suddenly Hew over from some distant country, 
and planted itself in the spot where it now stands. It was 
intended as a shelter for the god Buddou ; and under its 
branches he was wont to repose while he sojourned on earth. 
Near this hallowed spot ninety kings are interred, who all 
merited admission to the regions of bliss by the temples and 
images they constructed for Buddou. They are now sent as 
good spirits to preside over the safety of his followers, and 
protect them from being brought into subjection to Europe- 
ans ; a calamity against which they continually pray. Around 
the tree are a number of huts, erected for the use of the 
devotees w ho repair hither ; and as every sort of uncleanness 
and dust must be removed from the sacred spot, people arc 
retained for the purpose of continually sweeping the approaches 
before the worshippers, and to attend the priests during the 
performance of the ceremonies. 
As the preference w r as given by Buddou to the sliade of 
the Bogaha tree above all others, it is universally held sacred 
among the Ceylonese. Wherever it is found throughout the 
island, persons are appointed to watch over it and preserve it 
from dirt or injury. The Bogaha tree is held in the same 
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