Sri Lankan heritage Archives

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The Kalutara Bodhi Tree: Sacred Sentinel by the Kalu Ganga – By Bhanuka – eLanka The Kalutara Bodhi Tree is more than just a striking landmark along the Kalu Ganga. It is a living testament to Sri Lanka’s spiritual heritage and a place where countless personal stories and shared moments of devotion converge. Its significance goes far beyond its physical presence—rooted in centuries of history, resilience, and reverence that continue to inspire generations. A Childhood Memory Blossoms into History My connection with the Kalutara Bodhi tree began decades ago in the 1970s, when I was a young child growing up in Botalegama, a quiet village in Bulathsinhala. One of my earliest and most vivid memories is being taken by my parents to Kalutara to witness the sacred Kapilawasthupura Relics—brought from India and displayed at the Bodhi premises. That visit planted in me a lifelong fascination with the Bo-tree and its ...

Mar 31, 2025 Posted by eLanka admin In Articles, Bhanuka Nuwan Tagged Buddhist pilgrimage Sri Lanka, Buddhist sites in Sri Lanka, historic temples Sri Lanka, Kalu Ganga, Kalutara Bodhi Tree, Kalutara stupa, Kalutara temple, sacred Bo tree, sacred fig tree, Sir Cyril De Zoysa, Sri Lankan Bodhi trees, Sri Lankan heritage, Sri Maha Bodhi saplings

A Kaleidoscope of Cultures: Sri Lankan Batik and Heritage Shine at FOMA Runway by Kay Alahakoon, author of ‘Chasing a Boomerang’ and ‘The Bridges We Cross’ Stepping into the Ivy Sunroom on George Street, Sydney, on Saturday, October 12, felt like entering a world alive with colour, lively chatter, and electric anticipation. Representatives from 15 countries arranged stalls in every corner, each team collaborating with dedication and pride. Among them stood the Sri Lankan corner, a vibrant display proudly waving the Sri Lankan flag. Nalika Padmasena OAM and the team from the Sri Lankan Australian Women’s Network (SLAWN), Shivani and Dheeraj (Raj) from Saree Selection, Sepali Malalasekara from Stitches by Vedette, and batik artisan Gayani De Alwis from Nimreka Batiks—who couldn’t attend in person but contributed by creating material for the event—worked tirelessly to bring Sri Lankan craftsmanship to the Fabric of Modern Australia (FOMA) runway. Despite limited resources and ...

Feb 26, 2025 Posted by eLanka admin In Articles Tagged Aboriginal art collaboration, batik artisans, cultural fusion fashion, Fabric of Modern Australia, FOMA fashion show, SLAWN, Sri Lankan Australian Women’s Network, Sri Lankan Batik, Sri Lankan designers, Sri Lankan heritage, Sydney fashion event, traditional Sri Lankan fabric

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 Posted by eLanka admin In 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

Kataragama Wasana: The Majestic Tusked Elephant of Sri Lanka-by Kalani-eLanka The Kataragama Wasana, a revered Asian elephant (Elephas maximus), holds a significant place in Sri Lanka’s cultural and religious heritage. Residing at the sacred Kataragama Devalaya, Wasana is a symbol of strength, grace, and devotion. Kataragama Wasana was born in the wild in the Anuradhapura forests around 1970. Captured in 1971 at a young age, the elephant was later donated to the Kataragama Devalaya by the late Wimala Kannangara when he was approximately six years old. Initially named Raja, he was later renamed Wasana, a name that resonates with blessings and prosperity. Wasana is a towering figure, standing at an impressive height of 305 cm, making him the tallest tamed elephant in Sri Lanka. His majestic tusks, measuring over two and a half feet, add to his grandeur, earning him admiration from devotees and tourists alike. Kataragama Wasana plays a ...

Jan 7, 2025 Posted by eLanka admin In Articles, Kalani Prabodha Tagged Anuradhapura forests, Buddhist traditions, Esala Perahera, Kataragama Devalaya, Kataragama Wasana, Sri Lankan heritage

Nandimithra: The Giant Warrior of Ancient Sri Lanka – By Bhanuka – eLanka Nandimithra stands tall in Sri Lankan history and legend as one of the ten great warriors, or Dasa Maha Yodhas, who served King Dutugemunu during his quest to unify the island under one kingdom. Revered for his extraordinary strength, unwavering loyalty, and heroic deeds, Nandimithra is a celebrated figure in Sri Lankan folklore and a symbol of bravery and devotion. The origins of Nandimithra trace back to a time of political fragmentation in Sri Lanka, when the island was divided into multiple kingdoms and territories. Born into a lineage of warriors, Nandimithra inherited both physical prowess and a strong sense of duty. His name, a combination of “Nandi” (a term denoting joy or strength) and “Mithra” (meaning friend), reflects his character as a powerful yet loyal ally. Nandimithra’s most notable service was to King Dutugemunu, a visionary ...

Dec 28, 2024 Posted by eLanka admin In Articles, Bhanuka Nuwan Tagged ancient Sri Lankan history, ancient warrior tales, Dasa Maha Yodhas, historical warriors of Sri Lanka, King Dutugemunu army, King Dutugemunu warriors, legendary warriors, Nandimithra, Nandimithra story, Nandimithra strength, Sri Lankan battlefield legends, Sri Lankan folklore, Sri Lankan heritage, Sri Lankan hero, Sri Lankan legends, Sri Lankan martial arts, Sri Lankan unification, Sri Lankan warrior, Sri Lankan warrior culture, traditional Sri Lankan warriors

Angampora: The Ancient Martial Art of Sri Lanka – By Nadeeka – eLanka Angampora is a traditional martial art of Sri Lanka, steeped in a rich history and cultural significance that spans centuries. This ancient form of combat combines physical agility, spiritual discipline, and a deep connection to Sri Lanka’s heritage, making it one of the most unique martial traditions in the world. The name “Angampora” is derived from the Sinhala words “Angam,” meaning body combat, and “Pora,” meaning fight. It is not merely a martial art but a comprehensive system of self-defense, healing, meditation, and cultural identity. The origins of Angampora trace back to ancient Sri Lankan kingdoms, where it was practiced by warriors to defend the island from invaders. Legends and historical accounts suggest that it was an integral part of the military training of Sinhala kings and their armies. This martial art was known for its deadly ...

Dec 28, 2024 Posted by eLanka admin In Articles, Nadeeka Kumari Tagged ancient combat techniques, ancient Sri Lankan traditions, Angampora, Angampora cultural significance., Angampora history, Angampora revival, Angampora techniques, Angampora training, cultural martial arts, holistic martial arts, spiritual combat, Sri Lankan ancient arts, Sri Lankan cultural heritage, Sri Lankan heritage, Sri Lankan martial arts, Sri Lankan warrior skills, Sri Lankan warrior traditions, traditional combat art, traditional martial arts Sri Lanka, traditional self-defense

The Majestic Splendor of Sri Lanka’s Perahera Processions – By Nadeeka – eLanka Sri Lanka, an island steeped in history and culture, is renowned for its vibrant festivals, with the Esala Perahera standing as the crown jewel. This annual event, held in Kandy, embodies the rich heritage and religious devotion of the Sri Lankan people, attracting thousands of locals and tourists alike. Historical Significance The Esala Perahera traces its origins back over two millennia and is deeply intertwined with the island’s Buddhist traditions. It is held in honor of the Sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha, housed in the Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa) in Kandy. The festival’s roots can be traced to the reign of King Kithsirimevan (305-331 CE), who decreed that the relic be paraded through the streets to allow the public to pay homage. A Fusion of Religion and Culture The Perahera is not ...

Dec 14, 2024 Posted by eLanka admin In Articles, Nadeeka Kumari Tagged Buddhist procession, cultural festivals Sri Lanka, elephants in Perahera, Esala Perahera, Kandy festival, Kandy tourism., Kandyan dancers, religious festivals Sri Lanka, Sacred Tooth Relic, Sri Lanka Perahera, Sri Lankan culture, Sri Lankan heritage, Temple of the Tooth Relic, torchbearers Perahera, traditional Sri Lankan events

Ruwanweli Maha Seya: A Pillar of Sri Lankan Heritage-by Kalani-eLanka The Ruwanweli Maha Seya, also known as the Great Stupa, stands as one of the most revered and iconic Buddhist monuments in Sri Lanka. Located in the ancient city of Anuradhapura, this magnificent structure represents the architectural prowess, cultural richness, and religious devotion of the early Sinhalese civilization. It is not only a symbol of Sri Lankan Buddhist heritage but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting pilgrims and tourists from all over the world. The Ruwanweli Maha Seya was built by King Dutugemunu (161–137 BCE), one of the greatest rulers in Sri Lankan history. The king, known for uniting the island and promoting Buddhism, envisioned the stupa as a symbol of unity and faith. He began the construction of this massive monument shortly after his victory over King Elara, a Tamil ruler, in a legendary battle. Sadly, King Dutugemunu ...

Sep 7, 2024 Posted by eLanka admin In Articles, Kalani Prabodha Tagged Anuradhapura, Buddhist monument, Buddhist pilgrimage, Elephant sculptures, Jetavanaramaya, King Dutugemunu, King Saddhatissa, Ruwanweli Maha Seya, Sri Lankan heritage

A golden opportunity in Sri Lanka – By Lieutenant Commander Emma Anderson Lieutenant Jonathan Wills visits Henricus Avenue, Colombo, which is named after his grandfather. Lieutenant Jonathan Wills visits Henricus Avenue, Colombo, once home to his mother’s family and which now bears the family name. Photos: Petty Officer Bradley Darvill Source : defence.gov.au A deployment to Sri Lanka was like an episode of Who Do You Think You Are? for public affairs officer Lieutenant Jonathan Wills, as he uncovered surprising details of his family history during Indo-Pacific Endeavour (IPE). “Even though I’ve lived my whole life in Australia, I’m also very proud of my Sri Lankan heritage,” Lieutenant Wills said. “When I joined the Navy Reserve two years ago, I never expected one day I’d visit my mother’s homeland for a Defence diplomacy activity. “The last time I was in Sri Lanka I was five years old. Now, I’ve just called my ...

Aug 24, 2024 Posted by eLanka admin In Articles Tagged Australian National Maritime Museum, British Empire Games 1938, Commonwealth Games Sri Lanka, Defence diplomacy activity, Family history in Sri Lanka, Henricus Avenue Colombo, Indian Ocean region security, Indo-Pacific Endeavour (IPE), Lieutenant Jonathan Wills, Military camera team leader, Naval Historical Collection, Royal Australian Navy, Royal Ceylon Navy, Sri Lanka Navy, Sri Lanka-Australia cooperation, Sri Lankan cuisine in Australia, Sri Lankan heritage, Sri Lankan migration to Australia, Sri Lankan police officer heritage, Sri Lankan-Australian relations

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 ...

Aug 13, 2024 Posted by eLanka admin In Articles, Bhanuka Nuwan Tagged Abhaya Mudra, ancient Buddha statue, Anuradhapura, Awkana Buddha, Buddha in Sri Lanka, Buddhist art, Buddhist pilgrimage, Conservation efforts, cultural tourism, Kala Wewa, King Dhatusena, religious monument, rock-cut statue, Spiritual significance, Sri Lanka, Sri Lankan culture, Sri Lankan heritage, Sri Lankan history, Sri Lankan Tourism, Theravada Buddhism