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“The Evolution and Brilliance of Ancient Irrigation in Ceylon (Hela; Sri Lanka): A Legacy of Science and Civilization.” – By Dr. Sunil Wimalawansa Water has always been the lifeblood of civilization. In ancient Ceylon—modern-day Sri Lanka, historically known as Hela—our visionary engineers, under the guidance of dedicated monarchs, developed one of the world’s most sophisticated irrigation systems. This hydraulic civilization demonstrated foresight, engineering skill, and ecological balance, creating a sustainable network that supported thriving communities and abundant agriculture for centuries. The fundamentals of such water-related engineering marvels are highlighted in the following article on Lankaweb. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunilwimalawansa/recent-activity/all/) My tribute goes to the invaluable insights of pioneering irrigation engineers such as Joseph Needham and D.L.O. Mendis, along with dedicated professionals like Mr. Godfrey de Silva—former Chief Irrigation Engineer in Kandy and later Chairman of the Mahaweli Authority—and other pragmatic engineers who deeply valued the nature and beneficial coexistence inherent in Sri Lanka’s ancient hydraulic ...