The Awe-Inspiring Awkana Buddha: A Timeless Symbol of Devotion and Mastery in Sri Lanka – By Bhanuka – eLanka Tucked away in the lush greenery of the North Central Province of Sri Lanka, near the ancient city of Anuradhapura, stands one of the most remarkable and awe-inspiring monuments of Buddhist art: the Awkana Buddha statue. This colossal statue, carved out of a single granite rock face during the 5th century, is a testament to the artistic mastery and deep spiritual devotion of ancient Sri Lankan craftsmen. The Awkana Buddha is not just a symbol of religious significance; it is a living testament to the island’s rich cultural heritage and the enduring influence of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. The story of the Awkana Buddha is one of faith, perseverance, and the unyielding human spirit. It is a tale that transcends time, touching the hearts of those who stand before this majestic ...

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The Legend of Kala Wewa: An Ancient Reservoir’s Legacy of Unity and Prosperity – By Nadeeka – eLanka In a time long ago, in the ancient kingdom of Anuradhapura, the land faced a dire challenge. The monsoon rains had become erratic, and the fields that once flourished with golden paddy were now dry and barren. The people were troubled, their livelihoods threatened by the lack of water. In the midst of this hardship, a wise and benevolent king ascended the throne. His name was King Datusena, a ruler known for his deep connection to his people and his profound understanding of the land. King Datusena, observing the plight of his kingdom, realized that the prosperity of his people depended on a stable and sufficient water supply. With a heart full of determination and a mind brimming with ideas, he set out on a journey across his realm to seek a ...

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Unveiling the Mysteries of Kala Wewa: A Historical Journey in Sri Lanka – By Bhanuka – eLanka Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka, the ancient reservoir of Kala Wewa stands as a testament to the rich history and ingenuity of the island’s inhabitants. This colossal water tank, dating back over two millennia, has played a pivotal role in shaping the agricultural landscape and sustaining communities throughout the ages. Ancient Engineering Marvel: Kala Wewa, also known as the Kala Wewa Reservoir, is an impressive feat of ancient engineering that was commissioned by King Datusena in the 5th century AD. The primary purpose of this reservoir was to harness and manage water resources for agricultural irrigation, reflecting the advanced knowledge and skills possessed by ancient Sri Lankan civilizations. Legend has it that King Datusena initiated the construction of Kala Wewa as a tribute to his mother, Queen Viharamahadevi. The reservoir, with ...

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Stories Behind Names of Places in Sri Lanka DAMBULLA – by Dr. Nimal Sedera Source:Brisbane Sri Lankan Newsletter – Dæhæna – May 2022 Ninety percent of the names of places of our country are linked to stories of Kings of our history. The name DAMBULLA too has this similar effect. The unique King’s Palace used by only one single King in our history is Sigiriya. It was built and used exclusively by King Kashyapa. This palace built on a beautiful huge rock has been hailed as a masterpiece of art in the world and has been declared as a man made wonder of the world. King Kashyapa was a son of King Dhathusena who was famous as a pious, religious King who worked for the betterment of the people and made the country prosperous . The Kala Wewa he built stands as a monument to his contribution to agriculture of ...

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Conservation in crisis Source :Dailymirror 2020 has been a testing and trying year for many people across the globe. A raging pandemic that has incapacitated major cities worldwide has put a pause to the significant threat towards a growing environmental crisis. A 2019 United Nations report noted that nature’s dangerous decline is unprecedented in human history, and the extinction rates of species is only accelerating. In Sri Lanka, the first half of 2020 has been brutal to some of the country’s rare endemic species. Four Sri Lankan leopards have been killed, while another two have been severely injured, after being caught in wire snares in these six months alone. ...

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