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 ...

Read More →

The Story of Kadadora Vihara-by Kalani-eLanka Once a beacon of spiritual enlightenment, Kadadora Vihara, also known as Kadadora Sri Priyabimbaramaya Vihara, stood proudly in the tranquil surroundings of Kadadora, nestled within Sri Lanka’s picturesque Nuwara Eliya District. However, the temple’s fate took a tragic turn with the advent of progress, as the construction of the Kotmale Dam under the Mahaweli Development program in 1979 led to its abandonment and eventual ruin. The serene landscape that once cradled Kadadora Vihara underwent a profound transformation with the ambitious development projects initiated by the Sri Lankan government. The construction of the Kotmale Dam, aimed at harnessing the power of the Kotmale Oya for irrigation and hydroelectricity, brought about significant changes to the region’s topography, displacing communities and altering the natural environment. Amidst the waters of the Kotmale Reservoir lie the submerged remnants of Kadadora Vihara, silent witnesses to a bygone era of devotion ...

Read More →

Kotmale Dam: A Harmonious Blend of Engineering and Highland Splendor – By Bhanuka – eLanka In the heart of Sri Lanka’s central highlands, the Kotmale Dam stands as a testament to human ingenuity, offering essential water resources and a breathtaking backdrop against the verdant, rolling hills. Constructed across the Kotmale Oya, this engineering marvel is not only a vital component of the country’s irrigation and hydroelectric power generation but also an integral part of its picturesque landscape. As we embark on a journey through the narrative of Kotmale Dam, we unfold the story of its history, significance, and the awe-inspiring landscapes that have come to define this monumental structure. Construction and Historical Significance: The vision of constructing the Kotmale Dam took shape in the mid-20th century as part of Sri Lanka’s ambitious Mahaweli Development Program. This visionary project aimed to harness the waters of the Mahaweli River, the longest river ...

Read More →

Kadadora Viharaya – spectacular vistas of drought  – By Arundathie Abeysinghe   Submerged by the water of *Kotmale Reservoir, spectacular ruins of Kadadora Viharaya, especially the sculptured statues of the Buddha and other deities that can be seen during drought is a rare surreal sight to behold … Nestled in the breathtaking central highlands of Sri Lanka, engulfed by the misty cool climate, clear waters rippling in the gentle breeze blowing across the vast expanse of water, no one would believe that there are scenic attractions to feast one’s eyes on, beneath the tranquil waters… Kadadora Viharaya in Kotmale is a nostalgic reminder of life in a bygone era… There are ruins of approximately 54 ancient temples of historic and archaeological value, 57 human settlements including villages, over 14 tea estates that were inundated with the completion of Kotmale Reservoir when the Reservoir was constructed damming Thispane and Kadadora hills ...

Read More →