Royal Family carving in the Isurumuniya Viharaya

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Good morning to all my Hive friends!

The moment you hear the name Isurumuniya, what comes to mind first? Even before the Isurumuniya Viharaya itself, most people recall the Isurumuniya Lovers. There is hardly anyone unfamiliar with this stone carving, yet no one truly knows the full story behind it.

Isurumuniya is located near the Tissa Wewa in Anuradhapura. It is adorned with magnificent stone carvings, including the famous Isurumuniya Lovers, the royal family, the Elephant Pond, and the Man and Horse Head carvings.

Among the various interpretations, two prominent theories stand out: The first suggests that the figures in the carving depict Lord Shiva and Parvati. Professor Paranavitana, however, stated that it represents Prince Saliya and Asokamala.

The stories of Shiva and Parvati, as well as Saliya and Asokamala, are intriguing in their own right—perhaps we should explore them further later. But who exactly are the Isurumuniya Lovers? Does anyone truly know? According to historical records, this stone carving was originally created elsewhere and was later brought to Isurumuniya.

How many poems and songs must have been written over the centuries while gazing upon these mysterious lovers?

So many poems have been written
In honor of Isurumuniya’s love.
But how did you become a sculpture,
A frozen moment in time?

Not love, but mere figures we see,
Carved not just in stone but in memory.
The sculptor’s chisel shaped not only rock,
But the emotions of a thousand hearts.

Countless love stories begin, just as many come to an end. Between their inception and conclusion, love and longing take different forms, shaping and fading into the pages of history. So, until we truly uncover the tale behind Isurumuniya Lovers, this remains a beautiful mystery—a sculpture, a story, a poem.

Perhaps, one day, when the real story is known, the mystery will fade, and with it, the enchanting charm of the unknown. But for now, as long as no one truly knows, this unnamed couple will continue to inspire poetry, imagination, and serve as an eternal symbol of love.

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Thank you reading
Have A nice day.
Best Regards,

Samadi Madushanki .