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Gal Viharaya, Polonnaruwa

Tihara Gallage

Tihara Gallage

LBYG Committee - Secretary / Treasurer

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The Gal Viharaya, previously known as Uttararama, is a rock temple of Lord Buddha situated in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka. Uttararama was one of the most well-known temples built by King Parakramabahu I. The seated image of Lord Buddha is one out of four of the most notable statues within the temple. The seated image conveys the Lord Buddha in Dhyana Mudra, which suggests a Mahayana influence. Dhyana Mudra is a Mahayana hand gesture that is performed by placing the right hand on the left hand with the palms facing upwards. This gesture, and in turn the illustration, serves as a reminder to be compassionate to all living beings.

The Gal Viharaya, previously known as Uttararama, is a rock temple of Lord Buddha situated in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka. Uttararama was one of the most well-known temples built by King Parakramabahu I. The seated image of Lord Buddha is one out of four of the most notable statues within the temple. The seated image conveys the Lord Buddha in Dhyana Mudra, which suggests a Mahayana influence. Dhyana Mudra is a Mahayana hand gesture that is performed by placing the right hand on the left hand with the palms facing upwards. This gesture, and in turn the illustration, serves as a reminder to be compassionate to all living beings.

© 2023 Lankarama Buddhist Youth Group

In the spirit of reconciliation, the Lankarama Buddhist Youth Group acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.