Nadeeka Kumari

From Ceylon to Victory: The Role of Sri Lanka in WWII – By Nadeeka – eLanka Sri Lanka, then known as Ceylon, played a significant role during World War II. This island, strategically located in the Indian Ocean, became a crucial point for the Allied forces. The war impacted every aspect of life in Ceylon, from its economy to its social structure. This article delves into the detailed account of Ceylon’s involvement in WWII, showcasing its strategic importance, military engagements, and the lasting impact on its path to independence. Strategic Importance of Ceylon Ceylon’s geographic location made it a valuable asset in the Indian Ocean during WWII. Its proximity to the sea routes that connected the West to the East meant it was a pivotal point for controlling maritime traffic. The island’s ports, especially Colombo and Trincomalee, were crucial for the Allies. The Ports of Colombo and Trincomalee Colombo: As ...

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Bitter Gourd (කරවිල) – By Nadeeka – eLanka Bitter gourd, known scientifically as Momordica charantia and commonly referred to as Karavila in Sri Lanka, is a unique vegetable with a distinctive bitter taste. Despite its bitterness, it is celebrated for its numerous health benefits and versatility in cooking. This article delves deep into the health benefits of bitter gourd, provides detailed instructions on how to grow this plant, and explores various ways to cook and enjoy it, including a recipe for the traditional Sri Lankan dish, Karavila Sambal. Health Benefits of Bitter Gourd 1. Rich in Nutrients Bitter gourd is a powerhouse of essential nutrients. It is low in calories yet high in vitamins and minerals. A typical serving of bitter gourd provides: Vitamin C: Important for skin health and immune function. Vitamin A: Essential for eye health. Folate: Crucial for cell division and DNA synthesis. Potassium: Helps in maintaining ...

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Ginger: A Spicy Root with Numerous Health Benefits – By Nadeeka – eLanka Ginger, scientifically known as Zingiber officinale, is a flowering plant whose rhizome, ginger root, is widely used as a spice and a folk medicine. It has a long history of cultivation, having originated in Southeast Asia and is now grown in various parts of the world. This aromatic root is not only a culinary delight but also boasts a multitude of health benefits. Historical Background Ginger has been used for thousands of years for both culinary and medicinal purposes. Ancient writings from China, India, and the Middle East describe ginger as a prized spice. It was one of the first spices exported from Asia to Europe, where it became an integral part of the spice trade. Nutritional Profile Ginger is a rich source of essential nutrients and bioactive compounds. It contains high levels of vitamins such as ...

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The Rambutan Tree: A Comprehensive Overview – By Nadeeka – eLanka The rambutan tree, scientifically known as Nephelium lappaceum, is a tropical fruit-bearing tree belonging to the Sapindaceae family. Known for its distinctive, hairy-looking fruit, the rambutan tree is native to Southeast Asia but has spread to other tropical regions worldwide. This article delves into the botanical characteristics, cultivation practices, uses, economic importance, and cultural significance of the rambutan tree, providing an in-depth understanding of this fascinating plant. Botanical Characteristics Morphology The rambutan tree is an evergreen, reaching heights of up to 20 meters, though cultivated varieties are often kept shorter for ease of harvest. The tree has a rounded crown and a dense canopy. Its leaves are pinnate, with 3-11 pairs of leaflets that are ovate to elliptic in shape, measuring 5-15 cm in length and 2-6 cm in width. The leaflets are glossy green on the upper surface ...

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Aegle Marmelos (Bael/Beli) – By Nadeeka – eLanka Aegle marmelos, commonly known as bael, beli, Bengal quince, golden apple, or stone apple, is a species of tree native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. The tree is revered for its medicinal properties and cultural significance, particularly in India and Sri Lanka. This article explores the history, health benefits, and detailed aspects of Aegle marmelos, providing a comprehensive understanding of this remarkable plant. Historical Background Ancient Origins and Cultural Significance Aegle marmelos has been cultivated and revered in India for over 5000 years. It holds a prominent place in Hindu mythology and is often associated with Lord Shiva. The trifoliate leaves of the bael tree are considered sacred and are used in religious rituals. Ancient scriptures such as the Vedas and Puranas mention the bael tree, highlighting its importance in traditional Indian culture. Medicinal Use in Ayurveda In Ayurveda, the ...

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The Mandarin Tree: History, Uses, Health Benefits, and Cultivation – By Nadeeka – eLanka Mandarin trees, known for their sweet and aromatic fruits, are cherished both for their culinary versatility and their health benefits. These evergreen trees, native to Southeast Asia, have a rich history and are a valuable addition to gardens worldwide. In this article, we explore the history, uses, health benefits, and cultivation of Mandarin trees, along with a simple recipe for making fresh Mandarin juice. History of the Mandarin Tree Mandarin trees (Citrus reticulata) have their origins in Southeast Asia, particularly in regions of China and the Philippines. The fruit has been cultivated for thousands of years and holds a significant place in the cultural and agricultural history of many Asian countries. The name “Mandarin” is believed to be derived from the Mandarin officials of ancient Chinese courts, symbolizing the fruit’s high value and desirability.Mandarins were introduced ...

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The Gal Siyambala Tree: An In-Depth Exploration – By Nadeeka – eLanka The Gal Siyambala tree, scientifically known as Dialium ovoideum, is a significant species native to Sri Lanka and parts of Southeast Asia. Known for its unique fruits and beneficial properties, the Gal Siyambala tree holds a prominent place in traditional medicine, local cuisine, and environmental conservation efforts. This article delves into the botanical characteristics, ecological importance, cultural significance, and various uses of the Gal Siyambala tree, providing a comprehensive understanding of this remarkable species. Botanical Characteristics Morphology The Gal Siyambala tree is a medium to large-sized deciduous tree that can reach heights of up to 30 meters. The tree exhibits a robust and spreading crown, providing ample shade in the regions it inhabits. The bark of the Gal Siyambala tree is typically greyish-brown, rough, and fissured, which contributes to its distinctive appearance. The leaves are compound, pinnate, and ...

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All About Sugarcane: Cultivation, Processing, and Benefits – By Nadeeka – eLanka Sugarcane, scientifically known as Saccharum officinarum, is a tall perennial grass native to the warm temperate to tropical regions of South Asia and Southeast Asia. It belongs to the grass family Poaceae and is primarily cultivated for its juice, from which sugar is processed. The history, cultivation, production, and economic importance of sugarcane form a vast and intricate subject that impacts numerous aspects of human society and natural ecosystems. Historical Context and Global Spread Sugarcane’s journey from its origins to becoming a global agricultural commodity is a testament to its versatility and the evolving human quest for sweeteners. The earliest records of sugarcane cultivation date back to around 8000 BCE in New Guinea, where indigenous people began selecting and cultivating the grass for its sweet juice. From New Guinea, sugarcane cultivation spread to Southeast Asia and India. By ...

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The Wonders of Indian Gooseberry (Amla): A Comprehensive Exploration – By Nadeeka – eLanka The Indian gooseberry, scientifically known as Phyllanthus emblica, and commonly referred to as amla or nelli, is a small, greenish-yellow fruit that has been treasured for centuries in various cultural and medicinal contexts. Renowned for its potent health benefits and rich nutritional profile, amla is celebrated not only in Ayurveda but also in modern scientific research for its therapeutic properties. This article delves deeply into the history, nutritional composition, health benefits, and various uses of Indian gooseberry, highlighting why this remarkable fruit deserves a prominent place in our daily lives. A Historical Perspective The history of Indian gooseberry is deeply intertwined with the cultural and medicinal traditions of India. References to amla can be found in ancient Ayurvedic texts dating back over 3,000 years. It is described in the Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita, two foundational ...

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Caryota urens: The Kitul Tree of Sri Lanka – By Nadeeka – eLanka Caryota urens, widely known as the kitul tree, is an iconic species in Sri Lanka. This palm tree has significant cultural, economic, and ecological importance. Its diverse applications range from culinary delights to traditional crafts, making it a tree of immense value in Sri Lankan society. This article explores the history, uses, foods derived from the kitul tree, and provides a detailed recipe for making kitul hakuru. History and Significance Historical Context The kitul tree has a storied history in Sri Lanka, tracing back thousands of years. Traditionally, it has been revered not only for its practical uses but also for its cultural and spiritual significance. Ancient Sri Lankans discovered the multitude of uses for this tree, from its sap, which is a source of natural sweetener, to its fibers, used in crafting and construction. Cultural Importance ...

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