Discipline or Arrogance? UNP’s Rise and Fall-by KKS Perera Ranil Wickremesinghe, widely regarded as one of South Asia’s most astute politicians Source:Dailymirror Premadasa’s leadership, though effective in some areas, underscored the increasing dominance of personal ambition over collective party goals The UNP’s downfall stemmed from nepotism, internal divisions, and failure to adapt. Under Ranil Wickremesinghe, the party grew disconnected from the people, accelerating its decline The 2020 general elections dealt a devastating blow to the UNP, marking the first time in its history that the party failed to secure a single parliamentary seat Despite his political acumen and diplomatic skills, Wickremesinghe failed to unite the party and navigate the challenges of the post-Premadasa era It is a tragedy that Ranil Wickremesinghe, widely regarded as one of South Asia’s most astute politicians, who managed to steer a bankrupt nation back from the brink of collapse, failed to revive the United National ...
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Sir Ponnampalam Ramanathan’s Defiance: A Turning Point-by KKS PERERA After successfully advocating for justice in London, Sir Ponnampalam Ramanathan returned to Ceylon to a hero’s welcome. His tireless efforts to expose the British administration’s oppressive measures, particularly the unjust imprisonment and mistreatment of national and temperance movement leaders after the 1915 riots, had earned him the admiration and gratitude of the people. Recognizing his pivotal role in securing justice, Sinhala leaders and the public organized a grand reception to honor him. The most striking display of their appreciation was the symbolic act of leading him from the port in a grand procession, where prominent Sinhala leaders pulled the chariot carrying Ramanathan through the streets. This extraordinary gesture was a profound acknowledgment of his selfless service and the deep respect he had earned, transcending ethnic and political divides. Thousands gathered to witness the event, with people lining the streets to ...
Feb 4, 2025
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Tagged British colonial administration, Ceylon National Congress, D.S. Senanayake, J.R. Jayewardene, Sir Ponnampalam Ramanathan
Sri Lanka’s Independence Day: A Celebration of Freedom and National Identity – By Bhanuka – eLanka Sri Lanka’s Independence Day, celebrated annually on February 4th, marks the country’s liberation from British colonial rule in 1948. This historic day is a symbol of national pride, unity, and the resilience of the Sri Lankan people in their struggle for self-governance. The event is commemorated with grand ceremonies, cultural performances, and patriotic fervor across the nation. Historical Background Sri Lanka, formerly known as Ceylon, was under colonial rule for nearly 450 years, first by the Portuguese (1505-1658), then the Dutch (1658-1796), and finally the British (1796-1948). The fight for independence was fueled by national movements that sought to reclaim sovereignty, with leaders such as D.S. Senanayake, who played a crucial role in negotiations with the British government. As a result, Sri Lanka peacefully gained its independence on February 4, 1948, becoming a self-governing ...
Feb 1, 2025
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Articles, Bhanuka Nuwan
Tagged British colonial rule, cultural festivals Sri Lanka, D.S. Senanayake, February 4 Sri Lanka, Galle Face Green celebrations, historical events Sri Lanka, Independence Memorial Hall, patriotic celebrations, Ruwanwelisaya, Sri Lanka flag, Sri Lanka freedom, Sri Lanka government events, Sri Lanka history, Sri Lanka Independence Day, Sri Lanka national holiday, Sri Lanka national pride, Sri Lanka Tourism, Sri Lankan culture, Sri Lankan heritage, Sri Maha Bodhiya
From development to cricket, he had a vision Hon Gamini Dissanayake reminisced on this 30th death annoversary – By Sunil Thenabadu October 23, 1994 was the day of Gamini Dissanayake’s tragic death occurred following a bomb explosion while he was participating in his Presidential campaign meeting. His untimely death was indeed an irreparable loss to all citizens of Sri Lanka.He was a lawyer by profession who sacrificed a lucrative career and entered politics in the early 1970’s. He drew inspiration from leaders like D.S. Senanayake, Dudley Senanayake and J.R Jayewardene. All those who were acquainted with him knew very well that he was a person of courage who always stood up for what was right, He was a humanist – congenial, honest, upright, humble and an exemplary politician. Whatever he did, he did to perfection through sheer commitment. He was initially elected a Member of Parliament by winning a seat ...
Nov 1, 2024
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Articles, Sunil Thenabadu
Tagged D.S. Senanayake, Gamini Dissanayake, Gamini Dissanayake reservoir, J.R. Jayewardene, Kotmale Reservoir, Mahaweli Development Programme
JRJ encapsulates his autobiography in a 1992 post retirement book- by JR Jayewardene Source:Island I was born on 17 September 17, 1906. My father was E.W. Jayawardene, K.C. and a Judge of the Supreme Court and my mother was Agnes Helen, the daughter of Tudugala Don Philip Wijewardene and his wife Helena Wijewardene. My maternal grandmother is remembered as a pious and noble lady who made munificent gifts for the restoration of the Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya, the 2,500 years old Sacred Buddhist shrine. I was affectionately called ‘Dickie’ and was taught English and music by a Scottish governess, Miss Monro. At an early age I learned to play the piano. I entered the Royal College in 1911 and pursued my studies there till 1925 when I left Royal and entered the Ceylon University College. At the Royal College I was awarded the prize for general merit and the best ...
Aug 10, 2024
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Tagged D.S. Senanayake, Law College, Royal College, Sir John Kotelawala’s Cabinet, United National Party
‘Politics’ of AMUDE : Archaic with a Proud History! – By KKS PERERA A few years ago, the government withdrew the fertilizer subsidy sparking widespread demonstrations led by the JVP’s Govi Sammelanaya. The media widely circulated images of the ‘peasants’ dressed in their traditional field attire, the lion cloth (Amude) and protesting on the streets. However, some media outlets were cautious about using the term ‘Amude,’ recognizing that it is becoming obsolete. The government politicians argued that many of the demonstrators labeled as ‘farmers’ were actually individuals from various other industries and trades in the Colombo suburbs. In the 1930s, during his tenure as Minister of Works in the State Council, Sir John Kotelawala was eager to extend the railway lines beyond their existing routes. He often traveled on his inspection tours in very casual attire—just a T-shirt and shorts. On one such outing, he accompanied his leader, D. S. ...
Celebrating Freedom: The Rich History of Independence Square in Sri Lanka-by Kalani-eLanka Nestled in the heart of Colombo, the capital city of Sri Lanka, Independence Square stands as a symbol of the nation’s struggle for freedom and its triumphant journey towards independence. This historic landmark not only bears witness to the nation’s past but also serves as a vibrant hub for locals and tourists alike. The story of Independence Square begins in 1948 when Sri Lanka, then known as Ceylon, gained independence from British colonial rule. The square, originally called Torrington Square, witnessed the historic moment when the Union Jack was lowered, and the Lion Flag of Ceylon was raised for the first time. Today, visitors can still sense the echoes of that momentous day as they explore the square’s various monuments and structures. Designed by the renowned architect Tom Neville Wynne-Jones, Independence Square boasts a blend of neo-baroque and ...
Dec 16, 2023
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Articles, Kalani Prabodha
Tagged D.S. Senanayake, Independence Memorial Lake, Independence Square in Sri Lanka
Christmas In Ceylon In The ’50’s: Swing Bands And Grand Galas-by Roel Raymond Source:Media History records social transformation. It is through the lens of historical narrative that we see the ages and eras of the past and learn of the people, places, and events that made an impact. Documented history throws a light on the customs and rituals of people as they wend their way through time, leaving their mark on a particular epoch. In the 1950’s, Ceylon has just gained independence from the British Raj, the fruits of which were yet to be seen. Many of the cultural influences of the British were still apparent, including speaking the English language, clothing styles, and partaking in English customs and holidays. The major Christian holidays—Good Friday, Easter Sunday, and Christmas were all celebrated on the island, and going by documented history, Christmas in Ceylon in the 1950’s was a riotous time ...
Dec 6, 2023
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Articles
Tagged Chandra Arulpragasam, Christmas In Ceylon, D.S. Senanayake, Galle Face Hotel
71 years later… Commemorating ‘the Father of the Nation’-by Kamanthi Wickramasinghe Source:Dailymirror Statesman and first Prime Minister of Ceylon, Don Stephen Senanayake is referred to as the ‘man who architected the destiny of a nation’. He became the first Prime Minister of Ceylon as he facilitated the smooth transition of semi-colonization to independence with great charm and determination. His policies on agriculture, irrigation and colonization made Sri Lanka a food secure nation at the time. The Senanayake Samudraya, the largest reservoir in the island bears testimony to his vision. Prime Minister Senanayake is also remembered for his efforts to eradicate the malaria epidemic at the time, visiting villages infected by the disease and spending time in prisons, with a vision to develop the country. But 71 years after his passing away, Sri Lanka stands on the edge of a precipice. Why Sri Lanka requires an attitudinal shift Speaking at a ...
Mar 28, 2023
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Tagged D.S. Senanayake, Karu Jayasuriya, Rukman Senanayake
Story of 75 years of independence – By Malsha – eLanka Sri Lanka gained its independence from British colonial rule on February 4, 1948. The road to independence was marked by various political, social, and economic developments, with several notable figures, including D.S. Senanayake and S.W.R.D. Bandaranaike, playing a significant role in the independence movement. After gaining independence, Sri Lanka established a democratic government with a parliamentary system of government. The country’s first general election was held in 1947, and since then, Sri Lanka has maintained a vibrant democracy with regular elections and peaceful transitions of power. However, Sri Lanka’s journey towards independence was not without its challenges. The country faced various issues, including ethnic tensions between the majority Sinhalese and minority Tamils, which led to a 30-year civil war that ended in 2009. The country also struggled with economic issues such as poverty, income inequality, and high levels of ...
Mar 9, 2023
Posted by eLanka admin In
Articles, Malsha Madhuhansi
Tagged 75th anniversary of independence, D.S. Senanayake, S.W.R.D. Bandaranaike
