Polonnaruwa Glory
In a hasty official visit to Polonnaruwa recently, I made an even more speedy call to the infamous ruins of the Polonnaruwa Kingdom. Sadly some of the macro pictures were lost in confusion. Promising myself to make a more productive visit photographically, I offer this for the time being.
Polonnaruwa was the second Kingdom of unified Sri Lanka under King Vijayabahu I (1055-1110) who restored the Island from Chola rule. The two other powerful kings who reigned during the Pollonnaruwa Kingdom were Parakramabahu I (1153-86) and Nissanka Malla (1187-96). The Kingdom ended in 1255. During the periods of these three powerful kings there were vast developments in administration, irrigation in the dry zone, construction and architecture. However periodic invasions from south India destroyed most of the architectural marvels and the way of life, from which the Island never fully recovered.
Ruins of Polonnaruwa are what remains of the entrance to the Royal Palace of King Parakramabahu to remind us of the glory that once was.
The statue of the Lord Buddha graces the Royal grounds.
A Noble personality in stone. Scholars believe that this is either a sage (Kapila or Pulasthi) else the great King Parakramabahu. Although none have been confirmed, this statue is an icon of Polonnaruwa situated in Pothgul Viharaya.
They live here now, and they live peacefully, which is a blessing. But one must remember not to be too friendly with our cousins, lest they become aggressive. Offering food should be avoided for the benefit of both parties.
To be continued..
References:
A History of Sri Lanka – K. M. de Silva
The Glory of Ancient Polonnaruwa – Jayasinghe Balasooriya
