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SIGIRIYA RESEARCH
Sigiriya fortress is a remarkable historical site located in Sri Lanka, built in 477AD. It was constructed by King Kashyapa I, who established his kingdom there.King Kashyapa was the eldest child of King Dhatusena.
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KING DHATHUSENA​
King Dhathusena was the king who ruled the Anuradhapura Kingdom in Sri Lanka from 455-473 AD. He was the first king of the Mauryan dynasty. Dhatusena claimed the kingship of the country in 455 AD after twenty years of war by the time he started the rebellion, three of the six Pandayan invaders were found dead and two more killed from the battle that occurred during the rebellion
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After his enthronement, he successfully convinced the people who had fled to Ruhuna to return and repopulate their once-abundant regions in Anuradhapura.King Dhatusena's contribution to the development of agriculture in the country is remarkable. He built eighteen massive irrigation tanks that served as a source of water for farming.It is impressive to learn about the "kala Wawa" and "Balalu wawa" tanks, which cover a vast area of land and were used for cultivation. He also built "panda wawa , Yoda wawa, Meddakrtiya wawa, and Maeliya wawa.Yoda Ela is an impressive irrigation canal that stretches for about 54 miles from Anuradhapura, carrying water from Kala Wewa to Tisa Wewa tank. Yoda Ela's ability to descend 95 millimeters at each kilometer is a remarkable technological achievement. Its construction is a testament to the advanced engineering skills of ancient Sri Lankan civilization.These tanks were a significant step towards improving the agricultural sector and ensuring food security for the people.
The "Awukana" buddha statue is a thirteen meter (43 feet ) height statue of "Gautama Buddha". Lahugala Magul Maha Viharaya also a magnificent temple built by King Dhatusena.
King Kashyapa
The passing of King Dhathusena marked a crucial turning point in kingdom, with his eldest son assuming throne. Amid this transition, a conflict between Dhathusena's second son, Mugalan, and his brother Kashyapa, leading Mugalan to flee to India for safety In retaliation, Kingyapa wisely chose Sigiriya as his fortress, constructing a remarkable castle atop the towering rock. This decision not only provided him with security but also reinforced his control over the newly formed kingdom.
Sigiriya Fortress spans an impressive 700 acres, featuring two massive canals towering walls that once protected its grandeur. Its confines, you can find royal, water gardens, rock gardens, and even swimming pools, all designed to the beauty of this mountaintop castle. Surrounding the fortress is a large lake which served as a vital water source, showcasing an advanced system that transported water to the summit. Today, only small ruins remain, whispering tales of its former splendor.
Sigiriya, often referred to as the "Lion Rock," is an site where King Kashapa created stunning on its sheer rock face similar to a lion face. The entrance, crafted to resemble a lion's paw, adds to the magnificence this ancient fortress. By examining the remnants, one can imagine the vibrant dance and music events that once animated the nights, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the period.
King Kashyapa dedicated 18 years to constructing his impressive fortress, his commitment to strength and security. While other kings contributed extensively to Buddhist culture by building numerous temples, King Kashyapa's reign saw only a few notable structures. Among these is "Pidurangala", a temple he established, along with the refurbishment of the historic Isurumuni templeEven today, the impressive walls and extensive water moats remain visible., Mugalan has returned from India preparing for war. Kashyapa also making his preparations for the impending conflict. The stage is set for a significant confrontation between these two leaders. During the war King Kashyapa got suicide, it used by a wrong command.
My Sigiriya Research
The artist prashan during his Sigiriya research
Sigiriya MirrorWall
Sigiriya Graffiti
Prashan, the artist, first visited Sigiriya at the age of three during an annual trip organised by his father's company. During this visit, he developed a unique connection to Sigiriya, feeling as though it was a familiar place. When a member of the group inquired, "Who built this place, Sigiriya?" Prashan astounded everyone by confidently responding, "It was by King Kashyapa." His ability to provide such knowledge at such a young age left a lasting impression on the groupAt the age of-three, Prashan had visited Sigiriya multiple times with friends, but this occasion was dedicated to personal reflection. After a trip to the Kurunagala suburb, he planned to explore Sigiriya independently. Kurunagala is three hundred miles away from Colombo and Sigiriya is around seventy five miles away from Kurunagala The journey from Kurunagala to Sigiriya presented challenges due to limited transportation options; he first traveled to Dambulla before boarding a bus to Sigiriya.
Upon arrival, he visited a small boutique to purchase twelve sheets of paper and a few pens, as digital cameras and smartphones were not prevalent in Sri Lanka at that time. With temperatures reaching approximately 35 degrees Celsius, he embarked on foot towards Sigiriya, eager to appreciate the historical significance of the site. Prashan's journey to Sigiriya was challenging, but he finally arrived and purchased his entrance ticket. As he stepped into the historical city. The kingdom, starting with the impressive water barrier and the towering wall that protected this ancient site. He marvelled at the remnants of the water garden, where four large swimming pools stood, a testament to the grandeur of the past. Continuing his exploration, he discovered the intricate water fountains, sophisticated water filters, and beautifully designed rock gardens that added to the enchanting atmosphere of Sigiriya.
As you enter to Sigiriya, you'll encounter the remnants of two impressive castles. Each castle is situated separately and features its own distinct entrance. These sites invite you to explore their unique stories and enjoy the stunning surroundings.
Rock Gardens
The rock garden spans a vast area, featuring large stones stacked in a triangular formation with stairs built in between. Within this site, you'll discover various garden plans, including water gardens, flower gardens, and unique caves. One highlight is the Cobra Cave, a remarkable structure crafted from a large stone, designed to resemble a cobra's head. Each cave is adorned with plaster, suggesting that beautiful paintings once decorated their walls.
As you continue your journey, you will see the amazing seating cave and the royal estate, both crafted from a massive rock that has split into two stunning pieces. One side showcases the royal estate and royal seat, while the other features a charming little water tank designed to cool the nearby rock. Beneath this impressive formation lies the seating cave, beautifully adorned with vibrant paintings that will captivate your imagination. There are two small stone water containers at the bottom of the cave—many believe these were used in ancient times to hold flowers, adding a refreshing touch to this enchanting space. You can discover these remarkable features located on the west side of Sigiriya Rock. As you navigate the impressive 50-meter-high staircase that ascends toward the Mirror Wall, you can take opportunity to observe the resting areas historically utilised by the king. Each step offers a unique insight into the rich heritage and stunning vistas that define this extraordinary site.
Mirror Wall
The Sigiriya Minor Wall, standing tall since AD 477, reaches heights of approximately 3 meters, with some sections at 2.5 meters. While a few areas have been reconstructed, the wall retains much of its original grandeur. Known as the Mirror Wall, it once gleamed like a mirror, reflecting the beauty of its surroundings. In front of this wall lies a leap rock, which was historically plastered and adorned with paintings; although over 300 artworks were discovered through research, only a few remain visible today.
These stunning paintings bring to life the elegance of two ladies holding vibrant "Sapu" and "Araliya" flowers, while another lady showcases the breathtaking "Bera olu," a large pink collar flower! Adorned in exquisite royal jewellery, these figures radiate grace and beauty.
According to the fascinating insights of Mr. HCP Bell, the first Archaeological Commissioner of Sri Lanka, these remarkable women are the wives of kings, on their way to worship at the magnificent "Pidurangala" temple.
The painting features two ladies, known as "Megha Latha" and "Wijju Latha," as described by the renowned Sri Lankan archaeologist and epigraphist, Mr. Senarath Paranawithana. These figures represent the natural phenomena of lightning and clouds embodying the beauty and power of nature.
From Prashan's exciting perspective, the two enchanting ladies in the painting are actually Uthpalawanna and Bodhi, the beloved daughters of King Kashyapa! This fascinating interpretation is sparked by whispers of a secret romance between Bodhi and the talented artist behind this masterpiece.
In the stunning paintings of Sigiriya, the artist brilliantly captures the beauty of King Kashyapa's wives, adorned with dazzling jewellery that highlights their elegance and royal status, But An older lady in the corner of the artwork, sparking Prashan's curiosity about whether the Sigiriya painter focuses solely on special characters in these incredible pieces. This fascinating detail adds an exciting layer to the narrative, inviting everyone to dive into the captivating stories behind each figure.
LION FACE
Beneath the mirror wall, the exquisite natural landscape and royal gardens reveal themselves, guiding you to the renowned rock known as "Pagan Gala". As you navigate past the mirror wall you will encounter the impressive Lion face.Although we can presently view only the lion paw, the complete lion face remains an intriguing enigma. The artistic prowess of Prashan has brought the lion face to life through his exceptional skills, highlighting his remarkable talent.
PRASHANS' DEDICATION AND THE SIGIRIYA RESEARCH
My Exhibition in
Sigiriya Frescoes
Prashan found himself captivated by the intricate beauty of Sigiriya as he paused near a unique staircase behind a seating area by the dancing stage. This particular staircase stood out, branching into two sections that led to separate hallways. Inspired, he began to sketch the scene on A4 sheets, capturing the essence of the moment. This marked the beginning of a four-year journey of research and exploration into the wonders of Sigiriya.
Prashan was busy with his research on Sigiriya while working at an advertising agency in Colombo from Monday to Friday. After finishing work on Friday evening, he prepared for his trip to Sigiriya the next morning. He went to bed around midnight but woke up at 2 AM on Saturday to catch the bus. The regular bus near his house departed at 3 AM, arriving in Colombo by 5 AM. After having breakfast in Colombo, he took another bus heading towards Trincomalee or Anuradhapura, traveling about 400 km towards Dambulla. Although the roads were not very comfortable back then, he managed to reach "Dambulla" in about four hours.The journey from Dambulla to Sigiriya presented significant challenges, characterised by underdeveloped roads and limited transportation options. Only a few overcrowded buses available, the twelve to fifteen KM trip was both uncomfortable and slow. Upon reaching Sigiriya village, he had to walk a considerable distance to access the renowned Sigiriya rock. After purchasing a ticket, he dedicated the day to sketching the remarkable site, all while contending with the intense 35°C heat. Despite these difficulties, Prashan remained committed to his project. He commenced his return journey late Saturday night, ultimately arriving home around three in the early morning. After returning home from Sigiriya, he immersed himself in his work, dedicating life to uncovering the rich history of this ancient site. His research inspired him to create numerous paintings, envisioning what Sigiriya might have looked like in its prime. While studying the frescoes and remaining artworks, he struggled to piece together a rough sketch of King Kashyapa. Through his exploration of the Sigiriya foundation, he came to appreciate the immense labor that went into constructing such a grand kingdom in just 18 years.
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King Kashyapa, during his reign, constructed two impressive lakes nestled between the majestic Sigiriya. Today, remnants of one of these lakes can still be observed at the base of Sigiriya. Historical accounts describe this lake as being approximately 8 kilometers long, showcasing the grandeur of ancient engineering and the beauty of the landscape.
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The other lake is located beyond Pidurangala. Even today, when you climb to the top of Sigiriya, you can still see the remains of this lake, a reminder of the area's natural beauty and historical significance.
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​Sigiriya, a marvel of ancient engineering, is surrounded by two impressive moats. The outer moat spans approximately thirty meters in width, providing a formidable first line of defense. Beyond this lies a massive wall, followed by an inner moat that further enhances the security of the kingdom. The inner wall, shaped like a pyramid and filled with soil, leads you to the enchanting Sigiriya garden, showcasing the intricate measures taken to protect this historic site. Even today, remnants of these security features can be found, reflecting the ingenuity of its creators.King Kashyapa was a remarkable leader, known for his exceptional skills in handling people and maintaining strong foreign relations, as evidenced by the foreign coins discovered at the Sigiriya site. His reign was not only marked by political acumen but also by a vibrant cultural life; he was passionate about music, dancing, and painting. King Kashyapa enjoyed lively nights by the pool, surrounded by music and entertainment, showcasing his appreciation for the arts. Prashan is eager to uncover more about this fascinating figure and his legacy.King Kashyapa was a fascinating figure, embodying both strength and sensitivity. As a ruler, he was known for his firm leadership, yet his passion for art revealed a softer side. Prashan embarks on a journey to uncover the complexities of this remarkable king, exploring the balance between his roughness and his love for beauty.
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Prashan embarked on a quest to find a modern-day reflection of King Kashyapa from Sigiriya. During his search, he encountered a private company owner who embodied the king's traits: handsome, artistic, brave, and fearless. Inspired by this connection, Prashan began to paint his first portrait of Kingyapa, capturing the essence of a character that resonates even in today's society.
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Beneath the mirror wall, the exquisite natural landscape and royal gardens reveal themselves, guiding you to the renowned rock known as "Pagan Gala". As you navigate past the mirror wall you will encounter the impressive Lion face.Although we can presently view only the lion paw, the complete lion face remains an intriguing enigma. The artistic prowess of Prashan has brought the lion face to life through his exceptional skills, highlighting his remarkable talent.The next day, Prashan ventured to Sigiriya, where he examined the rock seat perched atop the iconic rock. He noticed two holes on either side of the seat and imagined a small roof supported by wooden sticks, providing shelter for those who once rested there. A massive rock loomed in front of him, and he speculated that the moon would rise beautifully through the mountain, prompting him to stay the night on Sigiriya. After a few hours, his imagination became reality as the moon illuminated the landscape, and he envisioned the enchanting days of the past, filled with dancers and vibrant life.Prashan read several old books about Sigiriya and found interesting information about climbers from the 1950s. The texts mentioned that they used wooden ladders to reach the top of Sigiriya. He also discovered stories about HCP Bell and the challenges he faced during his climb. These accounts highlight the adventurous spirit and of those early explorers.
PRASHANS' RESEARCH ABOUT SIGIRIYA PAINTINGS
Beneath the mirror wall, the exquisite natural landscape and royal gardens reveal themselves, guiding you to the renowned rock known as "Pagan Gala". As you navigate past the mirror wall you will encounter the impressive Lion face.Although we can presently view only the lion paw, the complete lion face remains an intriguing enigma. The artistic prowess of Prashan has brought the lion face to life through his exceptional skills, highlighting his remarkable talent. Prashan examined the Sigiriya paintings with great care, specifically studying jewellery depicted within them. At that time, there was no museum dedicated to Sigiriya, which adds to the significance of his research. Excavations conducted by earlier period uncovered white pearls and jewellery similar to those shown in the paintings. This evidence allows us to conclude that the characters depicted are not imaginary; they are real individuals who lived in the ancient Sigiriya kingdom.
King Kashyapa with his concubines
Sigiriya Bathing pool
This painting captures the artist's imaginative vision of a bathing pool, inspired the historical beauty of Sigiriya.
Artists' imaginary drawing about Sigiriya
This painting provides a historical representation of the Sigiriya Fortress during the peak of the kingdom. The meticulous details and vibrant colors reflect the grandeur of the royal citadel, highlighting its remarkable architecture and the lush landscape that surrounds it. It stands as a testament to the rich history and cultural significance of this UNESCO Heritage site. Through this artwork, we gain insight into the beauty and ingenuity of the ancient civilization that once flourished in this region.
King Kashyapa with Sigiriya painter
This painting shows us the artist's imagination of King Kashyapa alongside the painter. It beautifully illustrates the live incidents surrounding the creation the Sigiriya frescoes, showcasing the intricate details and vibrant colours that bring this historical moment to life. The dynamic interaction between the king and the artist reflects the creativity and passion that went into this monumental work.
The artist committed to illustrating the history of Sigiriya through his refined painting techniques. Each brushstroke conveys a narrative, encapsulating the essence of this ancient rock fortress and its profound historical importance. The vibrant colors and meticulous details invite viewers to immerse themselves in the, honoring the cultural heritage of this iconic site
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