Palustya statue at Polonnaruwa
Situated in the southern outskirts of the medieval Sri Lankan capital Polonnaruwa there is a famous rock-cut sculpture of excellent quality. Its correct interpretation is still under discussion. Most Sinhalese regard it as a portrait of Polonnaruwa’s historically most important king Parakramabahu. But the sacred thread running from the left shoulder across the body as well as the Ola leaf book carried in the hands is typical for Brahmin scholars. Some suggest the sculpture to depict Rishi Kapila or Rishi Agastya. But most probably it is Rishi Pulastya, called Pulatthi in Pali or Pulasthi by locals. He is the name-giving patron of this city Polonnaruwa which during ancient times was called Pulatthinagara. Pulastya was the grandfather of Lanka’s king Ravana

