Siyam Nikaya Archives

Spread of Buddhist Education in Sri Lanka; the role played by Col. Olcott and Theosophists-by Dr D Chandraratna The Olcott Oration delivered to the Old Boys Association of Ananda College (November 2020, Perth, Western Australia) Source:Island It can be gauged from the Buddhist publications in and around 1880s that the ordinary Sinhalese were experiencing an acute sense of despair and disquiet that colonialism had brought about a social degeneration evidenced by increased consumption of liquor and associated problems of family violence, cattle stealing, gambling, and crime. Even the colonial civil servants from numerous districts complained to the Governor that social disorganization was affecting administration, revenue collection and policing. The Sinhalese Buddhist revivalist movement and a proper assessment of Col Olcott’s contribution must be understood in this context of the rising tide of Sinhala nationalism, Buddhist confrontation with Colonialism, Christian missionary activity and increasing westernization. The elite Buddhists including those culturally ...

Spectacular Kandy Lake – centerpiece of Kandy City By Arundathie Abeysinghe Iconic Kandy Lake enhances the beauty of Kandy City with glistening waters during the day and illuminated waters with reflections of colorful lights of nearby buildings at night…Abundant with avifauna, schools of fish swimming near the surface of the Lake… Many species of aquatic life near the shores… Trees providing a shady atmosphere to the shores of the Lake, some with colorful flowers dotted with different species of birds perched on branches… Kandy Lake is the centerpiece and greatest attraction in Kandy City, Sri Lanka’s cultural capital… Kandy Lake is considered as the heart and soul of Kandy City, an iconic and spectacular landmark because of its central location and the splendor it adds to the City. Kandy Lake and the island in its center with a few trees including palm trees have been featured in many picture ...