Diyagama “Palunu Gala” Inscription – Insights into a Rich History

History buffs heading to Kalutara have fascinating escapades in store and one such adventure includes seeing the ancient Diyagama rock inscription that dates back to a time long ago.

Where it can be found

The Diyagama Inscription can be found in an area that was once part of the Diyagama ferry port, around 3 km from the Kalu Ganga, the main river that runs through the town. Please note that the marker shown in the map is not the exact location of the inscription but the Diyagama village.

What exactly is a “Pelunu Gala”!

This artefact is also known as the “Pelunu Gala”, a Sinhalese phrase which roughly translates to “split rock”; this is because the rock on which the inscription can be found has actually split! Don’t worry you can still make out the inscriptions.

Making the discovery

The Diyagama Inscription was first discovered by a monk, Ven Vaskaduwe Sri Subhuthi thero during the latter part of the 19th century. His finding was brought into the spotlight after one Professor Muller interpreted the inscriptions and published it in “Ancient Inscriptions in Ceylon”.

Dating the artefact

According to Professor Muller, this historical rock inscription dates back to the 5th century. While some have since disputed this fact and state that it is actually even older, what is clear is that Kalutara has been a flourishing city with a rich history.

References

Katupotha, Jinadasa. (2011). Cultural and Historical Monuments and Protected Resources of Archaeological Significance in the Lower Kalu Ganga Basin, Sri Lanka. . 10.13140/RG.2.1.1777.9682. [source]

Ancient inscriptions in Ceylon; collected and published for the Government
by Müller, Edward [source]