Features

A Landmark Gathering of Minds: The Ceylon Journal Roundtable Revives the Spirit of Intellectual Dialogue

Published

1 month ago

2026/07/26

Thilina Walpola

The participants of the Ceylon Journal Roundtable

By Devishka Ranasinghe Secretary, The Ceylon Journal ✍️

In an age when academic discourse is increasingly confined within disciplinary boundaries and universities rarely provide spaces for sustained interdisciplinary dialogue, The Ceylon Journal Roundtable marked a remarkable departure. Held recently at the serene Tulana Research Centre in Kelaniya, the inaugural Roundtable brought together more than fifty distinguished academics, researchers, professionals, clergy, writers, artists, architects, physicians, lawyers, journalists and independent scholars from across Sri Lanka for a full day of conversation under the theme History, Culture and Religion.

Conceived and principally organised by historian and Editor-in-Chief of The Ceylon Journal, Avishka Mario Senewiratne, the Roundtable represented months of careful planning and collaboration. Sponsored by The Ceylon Journal, the event sought not merely to present research papers, but to recreate a culture of civilised intellectual exchange that has become increasingly uncommon in Sri Lanka’s academic landscape.

Lakmith Fernando, Sunela Jayewardene,Priyantha Udagedara

Indeed, many participants remarked that it was difficult to recall a comparable interdisciplinary gathering organised independently outside the conventional university conference structure. In his virtual message played at the commencement of the event, eminent historian Professor C. R. de Silva (now domiciled in Virginia, USA) observed that the last comparable intellectual initiative had taken place during the late 1960s and early 1970s, inspired by the pioneering work of Professor Gananath Obeyesekere and a generation of scholars committed to rigorous public dialogue. Professor de Silva congratulated The Ceylon Journal for reviving this important tradition and expressed the hope that the Roundtable would become a permanent annual feature of Sri Lanka’s intellectual calendar.

Avishka Mario Senewiratne

The proceedings formally commenced with a welcome address by Avishka Mario Senewiratne, who reflected upon the philosophy behind the Roundtable. He noted that scholarship has never progressed through unanimity, but through evidence, conversation, respectful disagreement and the willingness to engage with ideas across disciplines. He emphasised that while journals preserve scholarship in print, meaningful conversation is what tests, refines and enriches knowledge.

Following the welcome, Dr. Praveen Weeratunga of The Ceylon Journal introduced the objectives of the Roundtable and outlined the format for the day’s discussions before inviting participants to embrace open yet respectful intellectual engagement.

The first session, chaired by Dr. Praveen Weeratunga, focused on History and Heritage. Dr. Buddhika Dassanayake delivered a compelling presentation examining the forgotten royal burial grounds of the Kandyan Kingdom and argued that the destruction of this sacred landscape amounted to a deliberate erasure of historical memory. He combined archaeological evidence, historical records and colonial documentation to reconstruct one of the island’s least appreciated heritage sites.

This was followed by Chryshane Mendis, who challenged conventional approaches to Sri Lankan archaeology by advocating greater scholarly attention to the Early Modern period. He argued that archaeology should not conclude with the ancient kingdoms but must continue into the colonial centuries, opening fresh avenues for research into Sri Lanka’s more recent past. An animated discussion followed, with participants debating the preservation of heritage, colonial memory and future archaeological priorities.

The second session on Art, Architecture and Shared Cultural Influences, chaired by architect Lakmith Fernando, highlighted the relationship between the built environment, culture and sustainability. Dr. Priyantha Udagedara explored the colonial transformation of Nuwara Eliya through paintings, travel accounts and visual culture, illustrating how British landscape aesthetics reshaped both physical space and cultural perceptions of the hill country. Together, the presentations generated considerable discussion on heritage conservation, identity and the relevance of traditional knowledge in the modern world. Architect Sunela Jayewardene delivered a thought-provoking address on Sri Lanka’s traditional architectural heritage, demonstrating how centuries-old indigenous design principles provide practical solutions to contemporary environmental challenges, climate resilience and sustainable living.

Following morning refreshments, the Roundtable resumed with its third session devoted to Religion and Society, chaired by Ralston Joseph. Professor G. P. V. Somaratna examined Dutch religious policy in maritime Sri Lanka, demonstrating how the Dutch East India Company balanced political pragmatism with commercial priorities in its relationships with Buddhism, Catholicism and Protestantism. Dr. Asoka Mendis de Zoysa complemented this perspective by exploring the religious and social transformations experienced by cinnamon-peeling communities under Portuguese, Dutch and British rule, revealing the complex interactions between colonial administration, caste, commerce and faith. The lively discussion that followed illustrated the enduring importance of religious history in understanding Sri Lanka’s multicultural past.

Participants were then introduced to the history and mission of the Tulana Research Centre by its Director, Fr. Dilan Perera SJ. Founded in 1974 by the internationally renowned theologian and Buddhist scholar late Fr. Aloysius Pieris SJ, Tulana has long served as one of Sri Lanka’s foremost centres for scholarship, interreligious encounter and dialogue. Described by many as a “mini university,” Tulana has welcomed generations of local and international scholars, while its remarkable libraries, research facilities and atmosphere of contemplation have made it one of the country’s most respected intellectual institutions. Participants expressed particular appreciation that such a gathering was hosted in a venue whose very philosophy embodies dialogue across cultures, religions and academic disciplines.

Following lunch, the fourth session turned to Literature and Language, under the chairmanship of Dr. Kanchanakesi Warnapala. Professor Sandagomi Coperahewa then explored Sri Lanka’s rich multilingual heritage, arguing that the island’s literary traditions historically fostered dialogue, coexistence and mutual understanding among Sinhala, Tamil, Pali and Sanskrit traditions. Participants reflected on the importance of multilingualism as an essential component of national reconciliation and intellectual openness. Dr. Dhanuka Bandara offered an original interpretation of Martin Wickramasinghe by examining the tensions between the celebrated author’s Buddhist metaphysics and his later conservative cultural positions.

The concluding academic session, chaired by Dr. Shane Halpe, shifted attention to contemporary society through discussions on Education, Compassion and Ethnic Harmony. Dr. Gauthami Kamalika Jayathilaka argued that compassion should become a central value within Sri Lanka’s state universities, presenting practical examples of cultivating empathy, social responsibility and harmony among students. Ralston Joseph followed with a stimulating presentation exploring ethnic harmony through an economic rather than purely political lens, suggesting that shared prosperity and market participation may provide common ground capable of reducing social divisions. The discussion that followed demonstrated how the Roundtable successfully connected historical inquiry with pressing contemporary challenges.

Unlike conventional academic conferences, every session reserved substantial time for open discussion, allowing participants from diverse disciplines to question speakers, compare perspectives and exchange ideas freely. Historians conversed with physicians, architects debated with linguists, artists engaged with economists, while clergy, lawyers and journalists contributed equally to the discussions. It was precisely this interdisciplinary exchange that distinguished the Roundtable and created an atmosphere of genuine intellectual curiosity rarely witnessed in contemporary academic gatherings.

The event attracted an impressive gathering of scholars and professionals representing universities, research institutions, professional organisations and independent scholarship throughout the country. Nearly every invited participant. As proceedings concluded, participants remained long after the formal programme had ended, continuing conversations over evening tea and establishing new collaborations that organisers hope will lead to future research, publications and public discussions.

The inaugural The Ceylon Journal Roundtable demonstrated that serious scholarship continues to flourish when provided with the right environment. More significantly, it reaffirmed that independent scholarly initiatives can successfully bring together some of Sri Lanka’s finest intellectuals outside traditional institutional structures.

Many participants described the Roundtable as a landmark achievement—one that few universities themselves have managed to accomplish in recent years. By reviving a culture of thoughtful interdisciplinary conversation, The Ceylon Journal has not merely organised another conference; it has initiated what many hope will become an enduring national tradition of intellectual dialogue.

The overwhelmingly positive response from participants reflected the success of the inaugural Roundtable. Independent scholar Chamikara Pilapitiya, well known for his work on Sri Lankan military history and heritage, described the gathering as “the best seminar I have attended in my living years,” praising The Ceylon Journal for creating a unique platform for serious intellectual engagement. Professor Enoka Corea, Chair Professor of Micro-Biology at the University of Colombo, observed that the Roundtable brought together “kindred souls” united by a shared love for Sri Lanka’s rich cultural inheritance. She expressed the hope that the discussions would become a regular feature, helping to fill important gaps in the country’s complex historical narrative. Veteran academic and former Executive Director of the United States – Sri Lanka Fulbright Commission Tissa Jayatilaka described the gathering as “a good gathering of minds,” noting that it had provided an opportunity to reconnect with long-standing colleagues while also meeting a younger generation of scholars. While praising the initiative, he observed that slightly stricter adherence to the allocated speaking times would have allowed even greater scope for audience discussion. Architect Aousten Aloysius of Jaffna remarked that the interdisciplinary discussions had broadened and deepened his own research interests and encouraged him to continue developing as a researcher. Sam Perera, co-founder of Perera-Hussein Publishing House, likewise commended the event as “an intellectually stimulating and thought-provoking day,” adding that he particularly appreciated “the sessions, the format and the overall smoothness of the operation.”

As proceedings concluded, participants lingered long after the formal programme had ended, continuing conversations over evening tea while exchanging ideas and establishing new collaborations. The inaugural The Ceylon Journal Roundtable demonstrated that serious scholarship continues to flourish when provided with the right environment. More significantly, it reaffirmed that an independent scholarly initiative could successfully assemble some of Sri Lanka’s finest academics, researchers, professionals and public intellectuals outside the traditional university framework.

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Features

Complexities in global politics deepen as economic pressures intensify

Published

9 hours ago

2026/08/27

Sahan Weerasooriya

UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham meets Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Kyiv. (BBC)

The present offer by the UK to strengthen Ukraine’s defense capabilities in the missile technology field in particular comes as ‘a stitch in time’ and the initiative is also likely to be appreciated considerably by democratic opinion world wide for the possible morale-boosting effect it would have on Ukraine. Besides continuous arms support, the conviction that the world’s frontline democracies are behind it would prove a huge plus in Ukraine’s eyes in its grinding fightback against the Russian invasion.

While continued US support for Ukraine could not be considered ‘a given’ any more, British Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s words during a recent visit to Kyiv that the UK would stand by Ukraine ‘for as long as it takes’ is the kind of assurance that Ukraine needs at present. For, the conflict in Ukraine is essentially a war of liberation conducted by the latter against an invader and deeply at issue here is the upholding of International Law and its foundational concepts, such as national sovereignty and a nation’s right to political self-determination. The world of democracy is of the firm view that the latter ideals cannot be compromised, come what may.

The UK has its work cut out in this connection. It would find it difficult to convince the Trump administration that it should staunchly stand by Ukraine but it could campaign vigorously with the rest of the West and the EU fold in particular to unflaggingly support the embattled and over-run country.

Ukraine has shown an impressive adeptness in using drone technology in particular against her enemy and has even manufactured her own hardware in this respect but using the relevant blueprints handed over by the UK for the manufacture of more sophisticated cruise missiles, for instance, may prove financially difficult, going forward. It is left to be seen whether the UK and the rest of the West who are with Ukraine will continue to be with her, considering their own rising financial constraints.

The latter impediments could only multiply in the future. Oil, gas and energy prices are on the rise and the latter costs are glaringly reflected in kitchens and meal tables the world over. As we go along consumer discontent would steadily intensify and governments, East and West, would need to figure out with considerable rigour and foresight how such disaffection could be ably managed. Failing which, in most democratic societies, the chances are that publics would be out on the streets demanding that their grievances be redressed forthwith.

These rising concerns are reflected in a recent move by some EU governments to consider imposing what is described as ‘a windfall tax’ on the profits specified major oil companies operating within their shores have made in the wake of the US-Israel war on Iran. The rationale apparently is to use such tax earnings to cushion the rising cost of living of their publics and bolster the respective countries’ social expenditure.

In a recent letter to the president of the EU Council the EU governments referred to said, among other things, while drawing attention to the ‘discontent that is growing over the rising cost of living’: ‘A common approach’ is needed that ‘ensures those who profit from the crisis contribute their share to reducing the burden on the general population.’ Meanwhile, Oxfam with reference to the above development is on record as calling for a ‘permanent windfall tax of at least 50% on profits exceeding a 10% return on investment.’

Such are the rising economic pressures on the majority of Western governments. The question to be posed is how consistent they would be in their assistance to Ukraine if they decide consensually to stand by her. The soaring cost of living in the West compels the conclusion that there could be no guarantee that Western assistance to Ukraine, particularly in the defense and security fields, would be of a longstanding kind.

Of particular concern would be the fact that the weapons systems on offer from the UK to Ukraine could be increasingly costly to manufacture going forward. Besides they would need to be manufactured and put into action without delay.

However, these considerations should in no way deflect Ukraine’s supporters from the principled policy stance of defending her to the extent possible. Because at issue is the defense of International Law and the democratic system of government from their enemies; fascism and authoritarian rule.

While during World Wars 1 and 2 the US was with the major democracies of the West, this time around with regard to Ukraine, the US has chosen to be at cross-purposes with them. For instance, in relation to tariff matters and defense expenditure, in the NATO context, the US is pursuing a hard line which puts it at polar opposites with the West. Thus it is no longer possible to talk unreservedly of a ‘Western democratic alliance’. Put plainly, the cause of democratic development has been weakened.

A measure of relief for the supporters of Ukraine in the West could come by way of the upcoming mid-term polls in the US. If the Democratic Party fares well in them the pressure would be on the Trump administration to defer to opposition opinion at home, accommodate the best interests of Ukraine in its West European policy and perhaps even work towards a diplomatic solution to the Ukraine crisis in cooperation with Russia. Accordingly, the Democratic Party would need to put the Trump administration on the defensive, so to speak.

Until such time Ukraine’s Western supporters have no choice but to remain committed to it, ensure its steadfast defense against the invasion and work judiciously towards keeping the economic pressures at home in check.

Interestingly, at the present juncture in international politics the US could be said to be more weak than strong. For example, it has to some extent been militarily humbled by Iran; so much so it is resorting to economic means to keep Iran in check.

In keeping with this strategy, the US has launched ‘a new big wave of anti-Iran economic sanctions’ at the time of writing, aimed at cutting Iran away from all its major income sources. Some of these relate to digital assets, technology, gold, aviation and shipping. The hoped for result is the complete severance of Iran from the US dollar system.

However, while the UK and EU have no choice but to adhere to their policy of backing Ukraine, going forward they would need to dialogue more closely with the US and ensure that it cooperates with them on outstanding questions, such as Ukraine and the strengthening of democracy. The well being of the world is served when the latter aim is pursued.

Features

“Envisioning Sri Lanka: Beyond Recovery”

Published

9 hours ago

2026/08/27

Sahan Weerasooriya

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya opening the event

OPA 39th Annual Conference calls for Sri Lanka to move Beyond Recovery towards Sustainable Transformation

The Orgnisation of Professional Associations (OPA) successfully concluded its 39th Annual Conference, held recently at the Cinnamon Grand Colombo, under the theme “Envisioning Sri Lanka: Beyond Recovery”.

Held under the patronage of Jayantha Gallehewa, President of the OPA, with the leadership and guidance of Tisara De Silva, President-Elect and Chairman of the 39th Annual Conference, the Conference brought together leading professionals, academics, business leaders and representatives of the public and private sectors to deliberate on Sri Lanka’s next phase of national development.

The Inaugural Session, on August 2026, was graced by Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, as the Chief Guest; Andrew Patrick, British High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, as the Guest of Honour; and Murtaza Jafferjee, Chairman of the Advocata Institute, Sri Lanka, as the Keynote Speaker.

In her address, Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya emphasised that overcoming the economic crisis alone should not be Sri Lanka’s ultimate objective, stressing that recovery must serve as the foundation for a broader economic and institutional transformation necessary for sustainable national progress. Reflecting on the difficult period experienced by the country, the Prime Minister noted that Sri Lanka had faced significant economic, social and institutional challenges, which had weakened public confidence and created uncertainty about the country’s future.

She stressed that “recovery only provides the foundation” and that Sri Lanka can move forward sustainably only by using that foundation to bring about meaningful transformation.

The Prime Minister observed that the theme of the OPA’s 39th Annual Conference, “Envisioning Sri Lanka: Beyond Recovery,” aptly encapsulated these national aspirations. She emphasised that Sri Lanka’s objective should not merely be to return to the conditions that existed before the crisis, but to forge a stronger national foundation characterised by robust institutions, a resilient economy, high-quality public services and an enabling environment in which every citizen has the opportunity to thrive.

She further underscored that Sri Lanka’s future development cannot be secured through economic growth and physical development alone. She emphasised that the effective mobilisation of the country’s knowledge, skills and professional expertise, is equally essential to achieving sustainable and inclusive national progress

The Technical Sessions held on 12 August 2026 brought together 19 distinguished experts and professionals representing academia, industry, banking and finance, public health, technology, management and business leadership. Their diverse expertise provided a multidisciplinary platform to examine the critical challenges, emerging opportunities and strategic choices that will shape Sri Lanka’s next phase of development, with particular emphasis on economic transformation, institutional strengthening, digitalisation, private-sector growth, human capital and sustainable development.

The deliberations were structured around four principal sub-themes: “Resilient Recovery and Sustainable Economic Development”; “Future Readiness: Innovation & Transformation”; “Policy for Impact: Advancing Equity, Sustainable Living, and National Well-Being”; and “Leadership, Governance and National Responsibility.”

Across these thematic areas, the sessions explored the structural reforms, institutional requirements and policy choices necessary to move Sri Lanka beyond economic stabilisation towards a more productive, competitive, resilient and inclusive economy. The discussions brought together diverse professional perspectives, enabling participants to examine national priorities through economic, technological, industrial, financial, social and governance lenses.

Particular emphasis was placed on the need to move beyond the diagnosis of problems towards pragmatic, evidence-based and implementable solutions. The deliberations recognised that sustainable national progress requires not only sound policies, but also effective institutions, professional competence, innovation, responsible leadership and the capacity to translate policy into tangible outcomes.

The sessions further underscored the importance of collaboration across sectors, recognising that Sri Lanka’s complex development challenges cannot be addressed in isolation. Stronger engagement among Government, private sector, professional associations, academia and civil society was identified as essential to fostering a coherent national response and ensuring that professional knowledge and expertise are effectively translated into policy and action.

Collectively, the Technical Sessions provided a substantive platform for knowledge exchange, critical reflection and forward-looking dialogue, reinforcing the OPA’s commitment to bringing the country’s professional expertise to bear on the task of building a resilient, innovative, equitable and prosperous Sri Lanka.

The OPA expressed its sincere appreciation to Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, the Chief Guest; Andrew Patrick, British High Commissioner to Sri Lanka and Guest of Honour; and Murtaza Jafferjee, Chairman of the Advocata Institute, Sri Lanka and Keynote Speaker, for their distinguished contributions to the Conference.

Much of what the 39th Annual Conference achieved would not have been possible without the leadership, commitment and generous contributions of Jayantha Gallehewa, President of the OPA; Tisara De Silva, President-Elect and Chairman of the 39th Annual Conference; Eng. Ravi Rupasinghe, General Secretary; Dharshana Wijemanne, Treasurer; Bhanu Wijayaratne, Convener & the Chairman of the Session Planning Committee of the 39th Annual Conference Committee, Past Presidents and Office Bearers; Presidents and representatives of Member Associations; members of the Executive Councils and General Forum; and the distinguished Session Chairmen, Resource Persons and professionals who shared their time, expertise and insights in pursuit of the Conference’s shared vision. The OPA remains immensely grateful to all those whose collective contributions enriched the 39th Annual Conference and strengthened its role as a meaningful platform for professional exchange, informed dialogue and national reflection.

Features

Nostalgia for Lankans in Toronto …

Published

9 hours ago

2026/08/27

Sahan Weerasooriya

‘Avurudu Musical Show 2027,’ a uniquely styled musical Avurudu celebration … Ceymphony Band style.

For Sri Lankans living 14,000 kilometres from home, the sound of home has never felt closer — and that’s thanks to one man and his band.

Since stepping into the spotlight, Gamini Hemalal and the Ceymphony Band have turned into the heartbeat of the Sri Lankan community in Toronto.

Their mission is simple: bring the music, bring the memories, bring the people together. And it’s working.

What turned out to be the talk-of-the-town was their intimate musical evening with Sri Lanka’s legendary crooner Sohan Weerasinghe.

Sohan Weerasinghe: Had
everyone on their feet at the
Angus Glen Golf Club, in
Toronto, Canada

It was a ‘full house’ long before the big date. Tickets vanished within days — demand was that overwhelming.

According to those who were there, it was a truly amazing evening. The hall was packed, the energy electric. Sohan didn’t just sing — he owned the stage.

With his velvet vocals, his charm, and that signature style, he had everyone on their feet. The ladies, especially, couldn’t get enough. No wonder they call him “The Ladies’ Man!”

One attendee summed it up perfectly:

“We had so much fun. It is truly a blessing to have our kids around us, enjoying these beautiful moments together. Thank you, Gamini Hemalal, for such a wonderful evening, with an amazing crowd and an incredible atmosphere. Your hard work and dedication truly made it a special night.

“We also need to say a big thank you to the Ceymphony Band for delivering such an outstanding performance. You all were absolutely amazing! Our entire family had a fantastic time, and we truly enjoyed every moment.

Ceymphony Band: Extremely popular in the scene in Toronto

“Wishing you all continued success. Keep up the amazing work, we can’t wait for the next.”

And the next is already on the cards: ‘Halloween Pissu Baila Party 2026,’ on Friday, 30th October, at the famous Angus Glen Golf Club.

Gamini promises a crazy night of baila, music, dancing and Halloween vibes with the Ceymphony Band. Action runs from 8:00 PM to 12:00 midnight, with plenty of prizes to be won.

Gamini Hemalal: Amazing work for the Sri Lankan community,
in Toronto, Canada

Gamini is also putting together a special event, connected with the 2027 Avurudu celebrations — ‘Avurudu Musical Show 2027,’ a uniquely styled musical Avurudu celebration … Ceymphony Band style.

It’s scheduled to be held on Saturday, 10th April, 2027, also at the Angus Glen Golf Club.

Through music, Gamini Hemalal and Ceymphony are doing what diaspora bands do best — they’re shrinking the distance between two worlds.

One baila beat at a time, one full house at a time, they’re making sure that even in Canada, Sri Lankans feel like home.

Yes, there is plenty of action, indeed, for the Sri Lankan community in Toronto, Canada.