Articles

Minette de Silva – Architect (A Brief Memoir by Jane Russell) Chapter Two – St Georges “I remember, I remember, the house where I was born.” Thomas Hood (1827) St Georges, the house where Minette was born and grew up, was built on three acres of land on Bahirawakande (Bahirawa Hill) by Minette’s father in 1910. I loved St Georges. The steep winding road up to the house ran through a jungly forest of jak, areca, kittul, bamboo and various tropical fruit and flowering trees. Although in my early twenties, I’d become addicted to Four Aces, the tipped cigarette preferred by government clerks. So, I’d stop at each bend on my way up to catch my failing breat For the fit and enthusiastic, there was a short-cut – a stone staircase of what felt like a hundred steps. It was dangerously slimy in the monsoon and subject to the predations ...

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Thalaimannar, Sri Lanka – By Bhanuka – eLanka At the westernmost point of the captivating island of Sri Lanka, Thalaimannar stands as a hidden gem waiting to be uncovered. Known for its picturesque landscapes, cultural richness, and historical significance, this coastal town beckons travelers with promises of untold stories and breathtaking vistas. A Coastal Tapestry: Thalaimannar, where the land meets the endless expanse of the Indian Ocean, unfolds like a canvas painted with hues of azure and gold. The rhythmic melody of the waves caressing the sandy shores is a constant reminder of nature’s artistry, making it a haven for those seeking tranquility away from the bustle of urban life. Gateway to Maritime Marvels: With its strategic coastal location, Thalaimannar has been a historic port for centuries. Once a bustling hub for maritime trade and commerce, the remnants of old piers and warehouses whisper tales of the town’s illustrious past. ...

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Avukana Buddha: Serenity Carved in Stone, Grace Embodied in Sri Lanka – By Nadeeka – eLanka In the heart of the enchanting island of Sri Lanka lies a testament to timeless beauty and spiritual serenity – the Avukana Buddha. Nestled amidst lush greenery and surrounded by the whispers of history, this majestic statue stands as a symbol of unwavering tranquility, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its divine presence. The Avukana Buddha, sculpted out of a single massive granite rock in the 5th century, is a masterpiece that transcends time and echoes the artistry of ancient Sri Lankan civilization. Carved under the patronage of King Dhatusena, this 40-foot tall marvel exudes a sense of grace and majesty that captivates the soul. As the morning sun bathes the serene landscape in golden hues, the Avukana Buddha casts a profound shadow, inviting contemplation and reflection. Its finely chiseled features, from the gentle ...

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Australia’s United Petroleum finalises entry into Sri Lanka Source : dailymirror Australia’s United Petroleum has completed formalities in acquiring the licence to enter into Sri Lanka’s retail petroleum products market. Power and Energy Ministry Secretary Dr. Sulakshana Jayawardena and United Petroleum Australia owner Eddie Hirsch have signed the relevant contract, at an event organised by the Power and Energy Ministry, the company announced in a statement. United Petroleum was the last of three foreign players granted approval to complete the formalities of the government.  The government decided to award licences to China’s Sinopec, United Petroleum and U.S-based RM Parks in collaboration with Shell PLC, to enter into the retail market, ending the duopoly market enjoyed by Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC) and India’s IOC.  Both Sinopec and RM Parks completed the formalities within the following two months, while Sinopec has already commenced operations. Under the arrangement, United Petroleum will be assigned with ...

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The Cricket Australia National Selection Panel (NSP) has today named the Australian women’s squads for the T20I and ODI CommBank Tour of Bangladesh. Source: (c) Cricket Australia – Multicultural Media – eLanka Victorian pair Tayla Vlaeminck and Sophie Molineux headline the inclusions after earning selection in both the T20I and ODI squads. Vlaeminck, one of the world’s fastest bowlers, made a successful return for Victoria earlier this year after recovering from a shoulder injury sustained while playing for Australia A in England last July. Molineux, who played in Australia’s Test victory over South Africa earlier this month, was the standout bowler of the 2023-24 WNCL season with 17 wickets at an average of 14.47 and a best of 6-45 since her return in December. Spinner Jess Jonassen and all-rounder Heather Graham have been omitted from the squad that faced South Africa earier this month. The back-to-back three-match series’ will be ...

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Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya-by Kalani-eLanka The lush greenery of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, stands the revered Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya, an epitome of Buddhist heritage and spirituality. With its rich history dating back over two millennia, this sacred temple holds a special place in the hearts of devotees and visitors alike, drawing pilgrims from far and wide to experience its tranquil ambiance and profound religious significance. The origins of the Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya are steeped in legend and myth, tracing back to the era of Lord Buddha himself. According to traditional beliefs, the temple was established during the third visit of Lord Buddha to Sri Lanka, around 500 BCE. It is said that the site was sanctified by the Buddha’s own presence, marking it as a sacred place of worship for generations to come. Over the centuries, the temple has undergone numerous renovations and expansions, each contributing to its architectural ...

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A Journey to the Elephant Rock city-by Mahil Wijesinghe   Source:Sundayobserver Kurunegala, the capital of the North Western Province, (Wayamba) has a historical name ‘Hasthihailapura’ (Elephant Rock City). It was the royal capital of Sri Lanka from 1293-1241 A.D. and is full of legend, romance and history. Although it enjoyed the honour of being the royal city for a span of only half a century, the Kurunegala district had the unique distinction of being favoured as the choice of three other capitals – Paduwasnuwara, Yapahuwa and Dambadeniya, between the 12th and 14th Centuries; according to legend, Paduwasnuwara was also a capital in the pre-Christian era. It is not surprising, therefore, that the district teems with period architecture, sculpture and art, and is an archaeologist’s treasure trove. ...

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Sri Lankan Banis ! Source:Ceylon Then / Sri Lanka Now! Sri Lanka is a small island with a very rich and very unique culinary culture. . From its beautiful golden beaches, to its lush vegetation and laid-back people, I was fortunate to have spent some of my formative years growing up in Sri Lanka surrounded by a rich heritage and an amazing diversity of food. As a one-time British colony, the recent history of Sri Lanka has been shaped by British influences and one of the greatest consequences of that is that the island is now home to arguably the best tea in the world! And there is one type of bread that goes better with a warm cup of Sri Lankan tea than anything else in the world. And that is the traditional Sri Lankan tea banis (pronounced [bah-nis]) – a melt-in-your-mouth soft and deceptively delicious bread roll. Sri ...

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eLanka Newsletter – 25th February 2024 – 7th Edition Sri Lankans in Australia Click here or on the image below to read this week’s elanka Newsletter Sri Lanka celebrate turnaround of fortunes, but are they the real deal? – By TREVINE RODRIGO IN MELBOURNE (eLanka Sports Editor) Good Shepherd Covent Past Pupils’ Association NSW Proudly Presents Shepherdian Valentine’s Dinner Dance Highlights! The Trail of the Ignominious Political Path of Sri Lanka. – By Noor Rahim SHALIKA ISHAN MULTIFACETED MUSICIAN AT PINNACLE OF FAME AT YOUNG AGE ACCOMPLISHED FEATS NO MUSICIAN HAD ACCOMPLISHED IN THE ARCHIVES OF HISTORY IN SRI LANKAN MUSIC ARENA – by Sunil Thenabadu The Trail of the Ignominious Political Path of Sri Lanka. – By Noor Rahim Pauline Corea’s Speech Shepherdian Valentine’s Dinner Dance – 16th February 2024 AN APPRECIATION – by Charles Schokman Aussies Snatch Victory in Smashing Match at Wellington – By Michael Roberts Kaleidoscope ...

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