Step into the fascinating world of Sri Lanka’s traditional astrological and ritualistic heritage with Planets, Asterisms, and Bali of Sri Lanka (ශ්‍රී ලංකාවේ ග්‍රහ, නැකත් සහ බලි). This comprehensive exploration by Purandara Sri Bhadra Marapana delves into the ancient practices of propitiating planetary deities and understanding their symbolic representations through art and ritual.
 
The book traces the origins of graha bali (planetary offerings) back to the culturally rich Kotte period and recounts how renowned Buddhist prelates such as Most Ven. Totagamuwe Sri Rahula and Most Ven. Vidagama Maitriya played pivotal roles in shaping these rituals. It provides insight into astrological customs, including the creation of birth charts, the influence of planetary positions, and the methods used to ward off ill effects through offerings, incantations, and talismans.
 
What sets this book apart is the author's personal journey to revive the lost art of painting planetary deities. With vivid accounts of collaboration with local artists, Marapana presents a rare collection of 75 vibrant watercolors meticulously recreated as large oil paintings. These pieces, housed at the Museum of Ethnology and Folk Art in Ratnapura, stand as the only comprehensive visual documentation of planetary and ritualistic figures in Sri Lanka.
 
Beautifully written and rich in historical anecdotes, Planets, Asterisms, and Bali of Sri Lanka is a treasure for those intrigued by astrology, Sinhala culture, and the preservation of unique art forms. This book is a must-have for enthusiasts of astrology, folklore, and Sri Lankan heritage, offering both scholarly depth and visual inspiration.