Stories Behind Names of Places in Sri Lanka: How “Parakaduwa” got its Name By Dr. Nimal Sedera

Source:Brisbane 4EB Sri Lankan Newsletter – Dæhæna – January 2022

Parakaduwa is a small village in the district of Sabaragamuwa. The word “Kaduwa” (sword) itself reveals that it is a name based on a war situation. Sword was the commonly used weapon at war all over the world before the invention of the gun. The sword was the symbol of power. Even today, the sword is a symbol of power, displayed in the ceremonial dress of heads of forces.

“Para” is a word used to give the meaning “foreign”.”Paraya” means an outsider. “Athveda”, “Para veda” means your work and the work of others ..”Para” is also used in the context of mean action or, low qualities. “para balla”.

Biggest threat to the King of Seethawaka, the Sinhala King, was from the Portuguese. They were determined to topple the King. But it was not that easy for the Portuguese as the war power of the Seethawaka King was somewhat strong with veteran soldiers.

In the battle with the Portuguese there was one Sri Lankan key soldier with a huge sword that was decorated with silver. The sword was so heavy that only that person could handle it. It was a tense battle and the role of the unique man with the unique sword was helpful to win the battle preserving the Kingdom of Seethawaka Rajasinghe.

After the battle the huge sword used in the battle that contributed to winning the battle became the talk of the area. People began to visit the worrior’s house to see the large sword . Hence it was the sword that killed the foreigners that identified it as “PARA KADUWA” (The sword that cut the foreigners). Over time, the place became
“PARAKADUWA”.

Dr. Nimal Sedera
Dr. Nimal Sedera is a journalist, poet, motivational speaker and an
author of over 70 books.