Manasara Series (I. A Dictionary of Hindu Architecture; II. Indian Architecture according to Manasara-Shilpashastra; III. Manasara on Architecture and Sculpture: Sanskrit Text; IV. Architecture of Manasara: Translation; V. Architecture of Manasara: Illustrations; VI. Hindu Architecture in India and Abroad; VII. An Encyclopaedia of Hindu Architecture) v6.c41.s10.9

v6.c41.s10.9

The ruins at Pulastipura and Kalingapura (now known as Topava or Polonnaruva) ‘extend in a line nearly north and south for about a mile and a half from the palace to the Gal Vihāra and comprise two *dagabas*, besides a number of smaller edifices.’ Most of these were erected during the reign of Parākrama Bāhu I (1153–1186). Most interesting of these is the Gal Vihāra. This is a rock-cut edifice, but is neither a residence nor a *chaitya* hall. ‘On the left, on the face of the rock, is a figure of Buddha, seated in the usual cross-legged conventional attitude, 15 feet in height, and backed by a throne of exceeding richness.’ Next to this is a cell with two pillars in front, on the back wall of which is another seated figure of Buddha. Beyond this is a figure of Ānanda, the cousin of Buddha, standing in the open, 23 feet high ; still further to the right, another of Buddha, lying down in the attitude of his attaining *nirvāṇa*. This figure is 46 feet long.¹