Draft:Kushtarajagala

Kushtarajagala
කුෂ්ඨරාජගල
Location	Weligama, Southern Province, Sri Lanka
Type	Rock carving
Material	Granite
Height	12 feet
Completion date	7th to 9th century AD
Dedicated to	Bodhisattva or ancient king

Submission declined on 19 June 2024 by Bonadea (talk).

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Declined by Bonadea 4 months ago. Last edited by Thiwankalk 4 months ago. Reviewer: Inform author.

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Kushtarajagala is an ancient rock sculpture located in Weligama, a coastal town in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka. This remarkable piece of art is a standing figure, believed to represent a Bodhisattva or an ancient king, potentially dating back to the 7th to 9th century AD. The name "Kushtarajagala" translates to "Rock of the Leper King," stemming from local legends which suggest that a king suffering from leprosy was cured by a nearby mineral spring.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Kushtarajagala is a significant example of early medieval Sri Lankan rock carvings, showcasing the intricate craftsmanship and artistic skills of that era. The sculpture is about 12 feet tall and is carved into a face of granite rock. The figure's detailed attire, ornate jewelry, and the serene expression highlight the influence of Mahayana Buddhism and South Indian sculptural traditions.

Description

The statue is adorned with a crown, and elaborate earrings, and holds a lotus in one hand, symbolizing purity and enlightenment. Despite the weathering of time, the sculpture remains a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Local Legends

According to legend, the sculpture was created in honor of a king who was cured of leprosy by the waters of a nearby spring. This legend contributes to the name "Kushtarajagala," where "Kushta" means leprosy and "Raja" means king.

Current Status

Kushtarajagala remains a popular historical site, attracting both local and international tourists. It is protected under Sri Lankan law as a site of archaeological importance. Efforts are continuously made to preserve the sculpture and its surroundings.

Accessibility

The site is easily accessible from Weligama town and is often included in cultural tours of the Southern Province. Visitors can observe the sculpture up close and explore the historical context provided by local guides and informational displays.

External Video Link

For more visual and contextual information, you can view a detailed video on Kushtarajagala [1].

References

Fernando, Kishanie S.. "Kushtarajagala: The Rock of the Leper King." *Sunday Observer*, (http://www.sundayobserver.lk).
Goonatilake, Hema. "Rock Carvings in Sri Lanka." *Journal of South Asian Studies*, (http://www.southasianstudies.org).
Ministry of Cultural Affairs, Sri Lanka. "Protected Monuments in the Southern Province." (http://www.cultural.gov.lk).
Video on Kushtarajagala: [2].

Category:Rock carvings in Sri Lanka Category:Archaeological sites in Sri Lanka Category:Buddhist art in Sri Lanka Category:Southern Province, Sri Lanka Category:Tourism in Sri Lanka Category:History of Sri Lanka Category:Buddhist sites in Sri Lanka Category:Sri Lankan culture