The First Census of Sri Lanka-by Randika Jayakody and Jerome Perera Source:Brisbane 4EB Sri Lankan Newsletter – Dæhæna – August 2021 The first scientific census of Sri Lanka, then Ceylon, was conducted in March 1871. The census identified a total population of 2.4 million spread across the islands of Sri Lanka. The census of 1871 demonstrates the staggering diversity present on the islands of Sri Lanka and is a reminder of the mixed origins of the current population. Individuals from at least 79 distinct races (as stated on the census) lived on the island at the time, and included communities from Portugal, Netherlands, England, France, Switzerland, Germany, Ireland, and Scotland amongst others. Communities such as the Bengali, Brahmin, Carnatic, Chetty, Maratha and Pattan (Afghan) from greater Hindustan were also present. Moors, Turks, Parsees and Jewish individuals arrived from the Middle East, whilst the Malays and Javans arrived from the Indonesian ...
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Sri Lanka: A Multicultural Melting Pot?-by Randika Jayakody and Jerome Perera Source:Brisbane 4EB Sri Lankan Newsletter – Dæhæna – July 2021 Among Randika and Jerome’s many interests is a deep passion to understand Sri Lankan history and culture. This has been facilitated through exposure to multiculturalism through their travels and living experiences in multiple countries. The term “Pearl of the Indian Ocean” reflects Sri Lanka’s significance to ancient explorers, traders and colonialist alike. This significance is observable through the island’s depiction on ancient maps. The size and details on this 15th century Florentine map (pictured) shows the prominent place it held in the minds of the cartographers of the era. Sri Lanka of the past could be considered akin to modern day Dubai, which became a sanctuary for people from across the globe. Unlike Dubai, many arrivals made the island their new home and contributed immensely to its ethnic, cultural, ...
