Life style

A PORTENT OF THINGS TO COME: waiting to die in Uda Walawe

Published

5 years ago

2021/03/7

by Rohan Wijesinha

A New Year spells new beginnings and brings with it the hope of things better. This year, it dawned very differently at the Uda Walawe National Park. The officers of the Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC) were on a mission of mercy. A large bull elephant had been shot; the bone and muscle of the knee of his back left leg had been shattered. It had swollen to many times its normal size, and needed urgent treatment. The shooting had taken place outside of the Park, and the DWC officers had to entice this beautiful creature back into it, with food and elephant delicacies, to keep him safe from more human torture, and to try and treat his wounds. Despite the extent of his injuries, they managed to tempt him in, a considerable trek in his condition. In his prime, large and full of life, this big bull now faced the biggest challenge to his existence; to heal from human harm.

When death is a release

Six weeks later, and the DWC officers were trying to move him again, away from the edges of the Park, perhaps so that he could die in peace, away from the prying eyes of those who might otherwise exult in his sad ending. Time, even this short span of time, had taken heavy toll. Despite the every effort of the DWC officers, the swelling had now trebled in size, and was oozing with foul smelling suppurate. The once proud beast, now an emaciated hulk, blind in one eye, perhaps the result of a previous bullet, shuffled along the road in obvious pain. His left back leg crumpled every time it took his weight, and with each step, more pus oozed out of the swollen mass of rotting flesh.

We may never know why he was shot, or why he deserved to be if such a justification can ever be made, but the placement of the bullet clearly showed that it was to hurt and not to instantly kill. Yet, with a political leadership seemingly intent on the decimation of the wildlife and wilderness areas of Sri Lanka, this will be just one of the many tragedies waiting to play out on lands that were once prized by our ancient rulers and peoples for their sanctity, serenity and life-giving powers, and were the foundation of this country’s prosperity.

Murdering the future

A government that wages war on its own people is referred to as a Dictatorship but, usually, exists for just the lifespan of that particular rule as not even tyrants can live forever. History shows that power soon returns to the people, and sanity prevails once more. Those who wage war on Nature and the environment, however, are Demons that are intent on destroying the futures of all who come after them. They have no comprehension of tomorrow but believe that their today is all that matters, a final generation. Though the ‘future’ is bound to curse them for their callous destruction of it, they will no longer be there to suffer the consequences of their wickedness. Their children will be sent to live elsewhere, though as the climate heats up, due to deforestation and environmental destruction, there may be nowhere else to live. Nature does not adhere to manmade boundaries – those constructed by states or individuals. A lack of water, polluted air and inadequate supplies of food will bring as slow and as lingering a death to humanity, as it is today coming to the dying bull elephant in the Uda Walawe National Park.

The Government has now determined that any farmer with over an acre of arable land is to be given guns to protect their crops from wildlife. It is estimated that there are approximately two million who will so qualify. Sri Lanka’s famous fauna, those exotic creatures with whom we share this Island and who attract many visitors to our shores, will be the victims of this slaughter. The massacre will be apocalyptic. It will not only be elephants who will be targeted, but any creature that nears human cultivation and habitation.

There is also a matter of National security. In the last 50 years Sri Lanka has suffered the consequences of three major insurrections; two in the South and one in the North. There has been a rise in the levels of domestic violence. Will these guns be used against animals alone?

Give a child a gun, and who is responsible? It is clear as to who should be held to account for every human and animal death that results from this irresponsible political initiative. This is not being done for the benefit of farmers for if it was, the forests would be fiercely protected for they are the bringers of rain, and the precious water needed for agriculture. Wild animals are an essential component of a healthy ecosystem. This is nothing but for the benefit of the policymakers and the money they, and their henchmen, can make from selling this precious natural heritage to large corporate entities who will rape it for what it can give them, and in the shortest possible time. Nothing but barren, waterless earth will remain for those who are left to try and scrape a pittance from the residue – the true farmers.

The Final Generation?

Historians, if there are any left, will refer to this as the Final Age as biodiversity disappears, and natural systems begin to collapse. There would be no point in appealing to our Gods to sustain us as this destruction would have been orchestrated by men who delude themselves that they are divine and not just above the Laws of Men, but those of Nature too. They, long ago, abandoned their worship of the just by building graven images of themselves with the materials they had plundered, and continue to steal, from the Earth.

If only we could save it for the future, for the younger generations are far more aware of the value of Nature and the need to preserve it, intact, for the health and life of all? They are the hope of tomorrow. Are we going to stand by quietly and let them be robbed of their inheritance especially as there are so many ways for us to coexist with Nature, and benefit from its blessings? Or do we, too, believe that ours is the final generation?

“Human kind of one generation holds the guardianship and conservation of the natural resources in trust for future generations…A sacred duty to be carried out with the highest level of accountability.”

Justice Shiranee Thilakawardena (in Watte Gedara Wijebanda v Conservator General of Forests and Others 2009 1 SLR 337 at p. 338)

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Life style

Beauty of Sri Lanka in focus: Global showcase blends art, diplomacy and conservation

Published

6 days ago

2026/04/12

Thilina Walpola

Ambassador Jovita Neliupsiene, Head of the EU Delegation to the US, and Mahinda Samarasinghe, Ambassador of Sri Lanka to the US, joined a special viewing of the exhibition

By Ifham Nizam

The sixth edition of the “Beauty of Sri Lanka” Photography Exhibition is set to unfold across North America this April, transforming the power of visual storytelling into a compelling platform for cultural diplomacy, environmental advocacy and nation branding.

Organised by the America Sri Lanka Photographic Art Society in collaboration with key diplomatic and institutional partners, including the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Washington, D.C., the Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka to the United Nations, the Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Los Angeles and Toronto, and the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, the exhibition will run from April 22 to May 4 across Los Angeles, Toronto, New York and Washington, D.C.

Held in conjunction with Earth Day, the exhibition continues to evolve as a globally recognised initiative that brings together art, conservation and international engagement. What began as a photography showcase has now matured into a dynamic soft-power platform that tells Sri Lanka’s story to the world—through its landscapes, biodiversity, and deeply rooted cultural heritage.

Photographers from Sri Lanka at Nigara State Park

The 2026 tour will feature prestigious venues that reflect its growing international stature. These include the iconic Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre International, Metro Hall in Toronto—marking the exhibition’s debut in Canada—the Permanent Mission in New York, and the Sri Lankan Embassy in Washington, D.C., as part of the widely celebrated Passport D.C. event. Each venue represents not only a geographic expansion but also a widening of the exhibition’s global audience and influence.

Exhibition

At its heart, “Beauty of Sri Lanka” is a vivid narrative of a nation’s natural and cultural wealth. From the mist-covered central highlands and pristine coastal belts to dense rainforests teeming with endemic wildlife, the exhibition captures Sri Lanka’s ecological richness through the lenses of talented photographers. These images serve as both an invitation to explore and a reminder of the urgent need to protect fragile ecosystems.

This year’s programme takes a significant step further by integrating real-world environmental action. The “ReTree Los Angeles” initiative, launched in line with Earth Day, focuses on tree planting, urban restoration and community engagement. It also includes a children’s painting competition aimed at fostering environmental awareness among the younger generation. Organisers believe that nurturing creativity at an early age can instil a lifelong commitment to conservation.

Adding a scientific dimension to the event, Dr. Sarath Gunapala will deliver the keynote address on “The Journey of Infrared Photography,” exploring how advanced imaging techniques can reveal unseen dimensions of the natural world. His participation highlights the exhibition’s interdisciplinary approach, where art meets science to deepen understanding and appreciation.

The exhibition will also feature a vibrant cultural segment designed to immerse international audiences in Sri Lanka’s living traditions. A carefully curated lineup of performances—including the sacred Wes Pooja, the dramatic Naga Raksha mask dance, the rhythmic Thelme ritual dance and the light-hearted Salu Paliya—will bring to life the island’s folklore, rituals and performing arts heritage. These performances are expected to add colour, rhythm and emotional depth to the visual experience offered by the photographic displays.

ASPAS President Suria Perera emphasised that the exhibition is more than a display of images. “It is a celebration of Sri Lanka’s identity—its natural beauty, its cultural vibrancy, and its responsibility to future generations,” she said. “Through photography and community engagement, we aim to inspire a deeper connection between people and the environment.”

Over the years, the exhibition has drawn a diverse audience, including diplomats, policymakers, conservationists, art collectors and members of the Sri Lankan diaspora. Its ability to connect these varied groups underscores its role as a bridge between cultures, fostering dialogue and mutual understanding while strengthening Sri Lanka’s global presence.

The continued support of diplomatic missions, cultural institutions and tourism authorities has been instrumental in elevating the exhibition’s profile. Their collaboration reinforces the role of art as a powerful tool in shaping perceptions, building partnerships and promoting sustainable tourism.

As the 2026 edition prepares to open its doors, “Beauty of Sri Lanka” stands as a testament to the island nation’s enduring appeal and its commitment to conservation. It is not merely an exhibition, but a movement—one that celebrates beauty, inspires responsibility and connects Sri Lanka to the world through the universal language of art.

Life style

Vibrant celebration of tradition and togetherness

Published

6 days ago

2026/04/12

Thilina Walpola

This holiday season, City of Dreams Sri Lanka invites guests to step into the heart of a truly Sri Lankan celebration with Signature Avurudu—a four-day cultural experience taking place.

Blending time-honoured traditions with contemporary flair, the festivities promise to capture the spirit of the Aluth Avurudda (Sinhala and Tamil New Year) in all its colour, rhythm, and warmth. From the moment guests arrive, they will be welcomed into a space transformed with festive décor, echoing the charm of a village celebrations brought to life in the city.

At the centre of the celebration is the Pahan Pujava, a symbolic lamp lighting ceremony led by the management, setting a tone of unity, prosperity, and new beginnings. This meaningful ritual reflects the essence of the New Year—a time to pause, reflect, and step into the new year with hope and positivity.

Throughout the four days, guests can experience the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka through a series of traditional performances. The rhythmic beats of raban and drums, alongside vibrant dance acts, will fill the air, creating an atmosphere that is both nostalgic and celebratory. Adding to the experience are elegantly dressed Sri Lankan hostesses, offering a warm, authentic welcome that embodies the island’s renowned hospitality.

No Avurudu celebration is complete without its flavours, and City of Dreams Sri Lanka delivers a feast to remember. Guests can indulge in an array of traditional sweets and savouries, alongside curated Avurudu-themed buffets and creative beverages inspired by local ingredients. Passing canapés and festive treats ensure there is something to enjoy at every turn—whether you’re reminiscing over childhood favourites or discovering new twists on beloved classics.

Designed as a celebration for all, Signature Avurudu brings together families, friends, and visitors from around the world to share in the joy of the season. It is a reminder that Avurudu is more than a festival—it is a feeling of togetherness, renewal, and shared happiness.

This April, celebrate the sights, sounds, and tastes of Avurudu at City of Dreams Sri Lanka—where tradition meets modern celebration, and every moment feels like home.

Life style

Thomian sailors secure many medals in India

Published

6 days ago

2026/04/12

Thilina Walpola

Thomian sailors witj official

Students of S. Thomas’ College recently demonstrated commendable performance at two international sailing events held in India: the inaugural Indian Sailing Regatta and the 4th North-East Regatta. Both events featured participation from foreign teams, including Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Malaysia, Russia, Great Britain, South Korea, Singapore, and India.

The inaugural Indian Sailing League (ISL), held at Umiam Lake, Shillong, India, marked a significant milestone in the sport and was prominently featured in The Times of India. The ISL is a first-of-its-kind franchise-based sailing league, bringing together 14 teams, 182 sailors, and 58 international participants from eight countries.

The ISL follows a concept similar to the Cricket Indian Premier League, where top sailors are “bid” and selected into franchise teams representing different regions. The competition introduced an innovative team-based format in which the best sailor from each team in each category competed, combining multiple race formats such as fleet racing, team racing, marathon races, and rig-and-race challenges. This pioneering structure, widely regarded as a first in global sailing history, has significantly enhanced the spectator appeal and competitive depth of the sport, while promoting youth, women, and high-performance sailing on a single platform.

At the first Indian Sailing Regatta, in the Boys’ Optimist category, Haren Wickramatillake secured 3rd place and was also awarded a special medal for his courage during the rig and race event. Dhiren Perera achieved 3rd place in the rig and race event alongside his team member.

At the 4th North-East Regatta, performances continued to be noteworthy. In the Main Optimist Boys category, Haren Wickramatillake was placed 6th, while Shem Fernando secured 19th place out of 32 participants. In the Junior Green Fleet Optimist Boys category, Anuruth Tennakoon achieved 2nd place and Dhiren Perera was placed 4th out of 10 participants. In the ILCA 4 Boys category, Akaine Ubayasiri was placed 11th out of 22 participants.

These achievements highlight the high level of skill, determination, and sportsmanship demonstrated by the young sailors, while also reflecting Sri Lanka’s strong presence in an emerging and globally significant sailing platform.

Upcoming international sailing events, featuring students of S. Thomas’ College, include the Asian Beach Games 2026, to be held in China ,in April 2026, and the International Optimist Dinghy Association (IODA) competition, scheduled to take place at Port City, in Sri Lanka, in December 2026. These events will provide valuable international exposure and further opportunities for the young college sailors to compete at a high level.