Articles

St. Joseph’s College Colombo turns 128 – By Maruthai Ravindhiran The purpose for which St. Joseph’s was founded was to give Christian  students the best education as per the Motto, “In Scientia et Virtute” Source : dailymirror St. Joseph’s College, Colombo 10, was founded on March 2, 1896 College day is celebrated on March 19 Today March 19, St. Joseph’s College, Colombo 10 one of Sri Lanka’s leading schools celebrates its 128th anniversary.  Founded on March 2, 1896, the College Day is celebrated on March 19 which is also the feast of the patron saint, St. Joseph. The architect of the renowned institution was Dr. Christophe- Etienne Bonjean, the first Archbishop of Colombo who was also instrumental in fulfilling the need for a Catholic college. He did not live to see his dream realized. However, he had appointed for the project, men who knew his mind and his plan and were capable ...

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Australia Reverses Visa Cancellations for Gaza Refugees – By Alza Kryeziu Source : visaguide.world Palestinians facing visa cancellations amid the Gaza conflict were allowed to resume their journey to Australia, with some visas reinstated after security checks. Advocates demand transparency in visa vetting processes to ensure safety for Palestinians with Australian visas escaping Gaza unrest. Refugee Council of Australia urges government action on visa cancellations and proposes solutions to protect affected individuals.   Amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza, a group of Palestinians faced a tumultuous journey to safety after their visas to Australia were suddenly canceled last week. However, they have now been permitted to continue their trip to Australia. After further security checks, some of the visa cancelations were reversed. However, advocates are pressing the government for more transparency about vetting procedures to secure other Palestinians holding Australian visas who are trying to escape the unrest in Gaza, VisaGuide.World reports. ...

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‘Forgotten’ plea for better life – by Cam Lucadou-Wells Kumaran and Kulali with their toddler Kuyili. 393752_04 Picture: GARY SISSONS Source : dandenong Asylum seekers remain in limbo despite the Federal Government’s ‘fast-tracked’ permanent visa pathway introduced last year. Dandenong-based Tamil couple Kumaran and Kulali fled from civil war in Sri Lanka after Kumaran and his friends were shot by security forces in the island’s north. Bullets remain in Kumaran’s body but he survived. His friends perished. Now with a toddler Kuyili, the couple’s claim for a safe haven in Australia has stalled for 12 years despite their insistence that it’s not safe for them to return. “He thought Australia was a democratic country and would help them,” refugee advocate Wicki Wickiramasingham says. “But it is going very, very badly.” In February 2023, the Federal Government announced fast-tracked Resolution of Status visas for refugees languishing on temporary visas. By January this ...

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Unlocking the Boundless Realms: Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) – by Bhanuka – eLanka Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) are transforming the way we perceive and interact with the world around us. From immersive gaming experiences to revolutionary applications in healthcare and education, AR and VR technologies are reshaping our reality in unprecedented ways. In this comprehensive article, we delve into the intricacies of AR and VR, exploring their origins, functionalities, current applications, and future prospects. Origins and Evolution: AR and VR technologies have roots dating back to the late 20th century, but significant advancements in hardware and software have propelled them into the mainstream in recent years. While VR immerses users in entirely virtual environments, AR overlays digital content onto the real world, blending virtual elements with the user’s physical surroundings. Both technologies offer unique opportunities for enhancing user experiences and driving innovation across various ...

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The Sweet Tradition of Sri Lankan Aluwa: Recipe and Cultural Significance – Nadeeka – eLanka In the vibrant tapestry of Sri Lankan cuisine, Aluwa stands out as a beloved sweet treat deeply embedded in the cultural fabric of the island nation. With its rich history and unique blend of flavors, Aluwa holds a special place in the hearts and taste buds of Sri Lankans. Let’s delve into the origins, ingredients, and preparation of this delightful confection. Origins and Cultural Significance: Aluwa has a long-standing presence in Sri Lankan culinary heritage, with roots that trace back centuries. Originally enjoyed during auspicious occasions and festive celebrations, this sweet delicacy has become a staple in Sri Lankan households, cherished for its symbolic significance and delectable taste. Traditionally, Aluwa is prepared during cultural festivals such as Sinhala and Tamil New Year, weddings, religious ceremonies, and other special occasions. It symbolizes prosperity, happiness, and the ...

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Sri Lankan police arrest two journalists in a direct attack on freedom of speech – By Wimal Perera Source : wsws Sri Lankan police arrested two journalists early this month on bogus allegations. The arrests are part of the Wickremesinghe government’s escalating assault on freedom of speech and other democratic rights, including its Online Safety Act (OSA) to censor social media platforms. On March 5, Ravana Lanka News Web Site editor G.P. Nissanka was arrested at his home in Pallebedda, 130 kilometres from Colombo, brought before a Fort Magistrate in Colombo and remanded until March 20. The website publishes articles about news generally available in the mainstream media. According to the media reports, Nissanka was arrested following a complaint to the police by Sri Lankan Army Commander Lieutenant General Vikum Liyanage. His detention is apparently related to a story claiming that the army commander’s home kitchen had provided army cooks to a politician’s ...

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Old Mutwal, Elie House and Lorenz-By Avishka Mario Senewiratne   Elie House, water colour by Andrew Nicholl avishkamario@gmail.com Source:Island The history of this most historic and valuable abode Elie House dates back to the days of Philip Anstruther, the Colonial Secretary of Ceylon from 1833 to 1845. Anstruther was a capable Civil Servant, who won the popularity of both the home Government and the inhabitants of Ceylon. Capt. James MacDonald Henderson states in his book The Rebellion in Ceylon, “Had this gentleman [Anstruther] but retained his appointment of Colonial Secretary, there is every reason to believe that the rebellion of 1848, with its long train of miseries and misfortunes, would never have occurred”. Due to his physical defect, Anstruther was widely called the “one-armed Rajah” by the English and as “Ath-Kota-Rajuruwoo” by the Sinhalese. During his tenure, Anstruther lived in the mansion of Elie House in Mutuwal. He had purchased this property of three and a ...

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Hans Van Culenburg: An All-Time Boxing hero – By Lawrence Machado Hans Van Cuylenburg, one of Sri Lanka’s finest boxers, has passed away after a prolonged illness. He suffered a stroke more than 12 years ago and had been bedridden since then, suffering more complications over the past few months. He was 74 when he passed away at his Dehiwela home. Hans is survived by wife Alane, and children TracyAnne (Melbourne) and Alec (Melbourne), and siblings Olive and Ronald. Hans was a household name in Sri Lanka during his heyday, along with his late brothers, Winston, Geoff, and Bunty. Their dad worked with my father, Rosario, at their business A.X. Machado and Sons, for many years and he was a thorough gentleman who used to visit us at home. I last spoke to Hans in February, and he reminisced about the days when he also worked for my Dad when ...

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The Tollywood film stars in a Celebrity Cricket Carnival in Melbourne for the 1st time Champions in the T20 exhibition match. By CCC in Melbourne – sent by Johann Dias Jayasinha The Tollywood Film stars from South India was in Melbourne for the 1st time on a Multicultural tour and played in an exhibition T20 Cricket match at Chirnside Park Werribee in front of almost Two Thousand fans. Chairman Sai Krishna from Celebrity Cricket Carnival in Australia who is responsible for the 4-day tour bringing the 14 Film Stars to Melbourne Australia. South Indian film stars (Tollywood) attended a meet and greet function in Point cook where 450 fans gathered for the dinner function. As the Stars in their spare time visited The Great Ocean Road, Melbourne CBD and Wildlife Ballarat Park to experience Victoria. CCC Chairman Mr Sai Krishna donated AUD $5000 to the Royal children’s Hospital on the ...

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