King Dutugemunu maintained a diary called “Pinkiriya” to record his daily almsgiving. Over time, this practice gained popularity in Sri Lankan society and became known as “Pinpotha.”
It is said that these alms books, when printed, were freely distributed in temples. My mother also received a copy of such a book, printed under the auspices of Diviyagaha Yasassi Thero. While cleaning her room after her passing, I discovered this book and saw that she had meticulously recorded the alms she had given.
Inspired by her devotion, I decided to share a few selected notes from her writings:
“Every year on June 12th, we offer morning and noon alms to the Kiribathgoda Temple. However, in 2006, I was unable to do so, and I deeply regret it.”
“On September 1, 2006, I visited the Neluwa Buddhist Monastery to offer alms. It was a fulfilling day as I was able to contribute significantly. Our entire family participated in the offering. My son gains much merit, as he is the one who makes these visits possible for us.”
“During the pilgrimage to Kataragama that my son arranged, I visited many temples I had never seen before, including Devundara, Kataragama Devalaya, Kirivehera, Sella Kataragama, Tissa Vehera, Dematamal Viharaya, Maligawila, Yudagana Vehera, and Buduruwagala.”
“On July 26, 2014, I traveled to Anuradhapura and then to Jaffna, exploring many sacred sites, including Nagadeepa and Seruwawila. I made monetary donations to these temples in memory of my husband.
I also visited Dambakola Pathuna, where Sanghamitta Theraniya arrived, and donated Rs. 100 to the Kumbukgoda Temple. Walking along the shore at Marble Beach brought me great joy. I bathed in the seven springs of Trincomalee and even visited the LTTE weapon depots and the tunnel of ‘Susay.’ My children helped me experience these places, and I dedicate the merit of these visits to them.”
“On March 3, 2019, I visited Nalagiri Pabbatha Rajamaha Viharaya in Thanamalwila. I contributed to the Kiribath Dansala near Kirivehera in Kataragama and supported the Dansala at Pabbatha Viharaya.”
“After my husband passed away on January 13, 2014, I resumed observing the Sil Samadhan. (Date not recorded) Every full moon Poya day, I observe religious austerities at Nandagiri Viharaya. I pray to be reunited with my husband in the next life, seated together and listening to sermons. I also pray to have my husband and five children with me again in my next life.”
“I served as the treasurer of the Buddhist Society and managed its affairs diligently. In times of bereavement within our Ranimadama Housing Scheme, I, along with Sumithra, Gamage, Malini, and Ramani Ariyadasa, prepared meals daily for the grieving families. We extended our help to the less fortunate whenever possible.”
As I reflected on the list of places my mother had visited in her pinpotha, I realized how many sacred and historical sites I had yet to see—some I had never even heard of before. It inspired me to embark on my own journey to visit them all.
