It was 35 years ago, on March 28, 1991, that Venerable Rahula Thera, then a young monk, embarked on a journey to the Na forest in Ulpathagama, Palagama, in the Anuradhapura District. Today, three and a half decades later, this mission stands as living proof of the enduring bond between Buddhist philosophy and the natural world.

Marking the 35th year of this green mission, Rahula Thera’s relentless dedication has transformed the National Namal Uyana into an environmental landmark admired not only across Sri Lanka but around the globe, as well.

When studying the life of Venerable Rahula Thera, one cannot ignore the profound connection between Buddhism and the environment. Buddhism is a philosophy deeply attuned to nature. The historical use of the sacred “Na Ruka” by all four Buddhas: Mangala Buddha, Sumana Buddha, Revata Buddha, and Sobhita Buddha — for enlightenment —demonstrates that from time immemorial, Buddhism has maintained a sacred bond with the Na tree. From the birth of Siddhartha to his enlightenment, the propagation of the Dharma, and even the great Parinirvana, all of these milestones unfolded in verdant, living landscapes.

Venerable Rahula Thera did not embark on the Namal Uyana mission seeking government support or personal gain. His commitment sprang from a deep devotion to the Buddha’s teachings on grove cultivation. A grove cultivator is one who spreads compassion for nature. As the Vanaropa Sutta teaches:

Venerable Rahula Thera reclaimed Namal Uyana which was then under the control of timber smugglers and treasure hunters. The term “Wanawasi” does not merely mean living in a forest; it signifies finding rest and enlightenment through nature, free from the destructive roots of greed, sin, and delusion.

Another defining aspect of Venerable Rahula Thera’s 35-year mission is the purification of the human mind. He has consistently taught the thousands who visit Namal Uyana that a person who loves a tree will never harm another human being. As the Dhamma proclaims:

It is important to remember that Venerable Rahula Thera devoted his life, without fear, speaking the truth and taking necessary action, tirelessly advancing the national mission he began. From 1991 to the present, he has worked with every government elected by the people, maintaining impartiality and independence from political ideology. Yet, he never hesitated to raise his voice fearlessly against any individual, of any rank or party, who committed wrongdoing.

Religious and Social Mission

The National Namal Uyana is not merely a forest; it is a magnificent heritage site, dating back to ancient times. Scattered across the landscape are boundary walls, the remains of ancient monastery complexes, and stone carvings believed to date back to the reign of King Devanampiyatissa. In earlier centuries, this sacred land had served as a meditation sanctuary for hundreds of monks. The name “National Namal Uyana,” by which this ecological and archaeological treasure is known today, was introduced by Venerable Rahula Thera in 1991. The government’s later recognition of the site as the National Namal Uyana stands as a significant achievement for both religion and national heritage.

Venerable Rahula Thera is a monk who has lived a life of renunciation. A striking example of this is his decision not to assume the position of Chief Incumbent of the National Namal Uyana Viharaya, instead entrusting the temple to the Ramanna Nikaya and its trustees. In doing so, he set a precedent for the contemporary Sangha. The Thera himself stated that he was merely the trustee of Namal Uyana, not its owner.

Legacy and Continuing Inspiration

The 35th anniversary of Venerable Wanawasi Rahula Thera’s arrival at Namal Uyana is not merely the commemoration of a period of time; it is a message of nature to future generations. Through his work, the Thera revived the ancient Hela tradition of loving trees and venerating the environment as something sacred. This religious and environmental mission remains unforgettable.

The revival experienced by Namal Uyana, after the arrival of Venerable Wanawasi Rahula Thera, is beyond simple description. Some of the major accomplishments achieved under his leadership include:

* Securing and protecting the largest Rose Quartz (Rosa Thirivana) reserve in South Asia.

* Restoring the Na forest spread across hundreds of acres, providing shelter to numerous rare plants and animal species.

* Transforming the area into a living centre for environmental education, offering practical learning experiences for thousands of schoolchildren and university students.

* Drawing the attention of world leaders and international environmentalists to Sri Lanka’s unique environmental heritage.

In recognition of his immense contribution to environmental conservation, Venerable Rahula Thera was honoured with the Presidential Environment Award and the Green Award in 2004—a significant moment in his life. Yet the Thera himself has always remained devoted to the work rather than the recognition it brings, making such appreciation even more meaningful.

Indunil Kaushalya Dissanayaka, operating under the trade name Cuteefly, is renowned for creating unique candle designs for special occasions.

In February, Valentine’s Day was in the spotlight, via her candles.

With the Sinhala and Tamil New Year, commonly called Aluth Avurudda, on the horizon, Indunil says she is inspired by the cultural significance of candles in Sri Lankan traditions, where candles symbolise light, hope, and renewal, and, with this in mind, she indicated that she is creating special candles to usher in the New Year.

Traditional Aluth Avurudda foods and the boiling milk candle

Says Indunil: “I’ve created a beautiful Milk Spilling Candle that can be lit at home to welcome the new year and bring prosperity to your home.

“This candle, shaped like a pot of boiling milk, is a wonderful way to light your home for a year of auspiciousness!”

Cuteefly candle designs, says Indunil, incorporate traditional Sri Lankan elements, such as intricate patterns, floral motifs, or auspicious symbols.

Aluth Avurudda, is a significant cultural celebration in Sri Lanka, marking the beginning of the traditional Sinhala/Tamil calendar, and is a time for renewal, joy, and festivities.

Milk Spilling Candle

It’s a time to bid farewell to the old and welcome the new, reflecting on past experiences and looking forward to fresh starts.

The celebration is deeply rooted in Sri Lankan traditions, with rituals, food, games, and customs that bring families and communities together.

The festivities include traditional foods like kiribath (milk rice), sweets, and games, and Indunil is keen to ensure that her Aluth Avurudda candles will give the joyful activities an extra special touch.

If readers need to contact Indunil, her number is 0778506066 (direct and WhatsApp)

* Egg and Yoghurt Hair Mask:

Beat 01 egg (use 02 if you have long hair) and mix it with 02-03 tablespoons of yoghurt. Mix well until you get a smooth paste.

Apply the mixture on the hair – from scalp to ends.

Make sure all strands are covered

Let it sit for 20–30 minutes and then rinse properly.

Wash with cool, or lukewarm water, (avoid hot water to prevent egg smell).

Use a mild shampoo to clean your hair.

Benefits …

Adds natural shine, makes hair look glossy and healthy, and strengthens weak and damaged hair, while yoghurt moisturises and softens dry hair.

What’s more, this Egg and Yoghurt hair mask reduces frizz and makes hair smoother and easier to manage, and also improves hair texture, leaving hair silky and soft, and supports hair growth; nourishes roots and improves scalp health.

By the way, readers, if you have dry hair, add 01 teaspoon of coconut oil, and if you have oily hair, add a few drops of lemon juice.

* Sandalwood Paste Face Pack:

Mix well 01-02 teaspoons sandalwood powder and sufficient rose water to get a soft, lump-free paste.

Apply this paste on the face and spread evenly, avoiding the eye area.

Leave for 10–15 minutes until it’s dry (don’t over-dry), and then rinse off, gently, with cool water.

Pat dry and apply a moisturizer.

Benefits…

Calms skin irritation, soothes redness, itching, and inflammation, reduces acne and blemishes, helps clear spots and improve skin clarity, brightens dull and tired-looking skin, leaves skin fresh and refreshed, especially in this hot weather, helps balance oily skin without over-drying, and makes skin feel soft, smooth, and even.

For dry skin, add a little milk or honey, and for acne-prone skin, add a pinch of turmeric.