Life style
A Pond, a rock and a view
by Christina Vidanagamage
The North Central province of Sri Lanka is part of what is called the Dry Zone but a reputed lecturer and the dean of the University of Rajarata said that it should be known as the “Waevu baendi rajyaya” (the kingdom where reservoirs were built). Of course the word ‘reservoir’ doesn’t exactly capture everything associated with ‘weva’ because the latter is not just a body of water but part of a socio-economic-ecological system. What’s important is that the extensive and sophisticated irrigation systems has made it too wet to be called ‘Dry Zone.’
Anuradhapura is about heritage, religion and culture. The Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya, the Ruwanweliseya and innumerable other venerated sites indicate that it is the heart of Buddhism in the island. These are archaeologically significant but they constitute living heritage for people still visit and worship.
“Kalu diya pokuna” (black water pond) in Mihintale, during a recent visit, was like a historical filter keeping away everything that was familiar. As I walked through the mighty stone entrance just as dawn was breaking it was as though I was entering a different era.
The surroundings fascinated me. It was a monastic complex made for the saffron robe. The ruins gave out the vibe of a grandiose history. Around the pond there were ruins of what could have been a place of residence for meditating bikkhus, who may have been arahats. There was also a stupa with a stone inscription the characters on which, according to the description posted by the Archaeological Department, were hard to decipher. The presence of life overpowered me. It was not only a pond I saw but an entire habitat of civilization long gone. I was enliven by the architecture and the designs related to the ancient hydraulic system. I felt the strength and the sweat of a people who built the place upon the orders of the king.
I imagined the bikkhus walking slowly along the paths meditating or going about their diurnal routines with the soft music of the gathas being chanted during a Buddha poojawa. The black water pond certainly reflected the shadows of the past at that moment. It was a place of tranquility.
About an hour and a half from Kalu Diya Pokuna is a different kind of monastery belonging to a different time. Buddhungala Raja Maha Viharaya, a few kilometers off Padaviya is also a place of pure serenity, but of a different kind. It had also been home to bikkhus in centuries gone by.
The rock formations are spectacular and so too the views from the top of the hill where the ruins are. Typical of such places, slight depressions made for small seasonal rock pools, referred to as kemas. There had been rain so these kemas of varying size had frogs, dried leaves and moss. The villagers claim that various creatures big and small, elephants included, slake their thirst in these kemas.
The quaint belfry, rising against several formidable boulders, stood like a sentinel, a relatively modern construction loo0king upon things from an ancient time.
Upon the adjacent rock there was a boulder of very interesting shape. From one angle it looked like a perfect square but poised upon one of the four points. It seemed it could roll over any moment.
There was a moment of stillness and silence. A moment for the imagination to do its work.
I heard the sound of the bell. I saw bikkhus walking down the stone stairway, each cradling a paththaraya.
Such places do this to us. They take us back to a different time. We duly imagine even though what we imagine could be very different from what was actually there then.
There are monasteries hidden deep in wild places, far away from the blare of the traffic and bustling towns. The greenery surroundings, the open skies, the emptiness upon the rock formations invite us to mediate and help us focus.
Of course the time of day is important because amount and angle of light gives different colors at times. What one sees at dawn, one might miss at noon and something that stands out for attention at noon could be passed over unnoticed in the early morning light. For example, there is something mystical about Kalu Diya Pokuna at all times of day, but there’s some addition mystery that envelopes the place at dawn.
These are not places for hurried visits. One has to allow the physical surroundings and historical remains to present themselves in their own pace. There are also seemingly insurmountable heights which can be reached if one is prepared to make the effort and look for the right path.
The view will mesmerize. The surroundings will engulf. One visits a place expecting certain things, for example a splendid view. And yet one comes away having been even more impressed by a simple belfry silhouetted against an evening sky or the reflection of tress and bits of cloud in conversation with the dead leaves at the bottom of a kema.
Photo credits @ Tharindu Amunugama
Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Bungalow
The grand opening of Peace Haven Bungalow at Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle was celebrated with an unforgettable evening of opera. Guests were serenaded by internationally renowned talents including Concert Pianist Jean-Marc Pont Marchesi from Paris, Soprano Chrisni Mendis from Rome and Sri Lanka, and Russian Tenor Sergei Radchenko. These acclaimed artists were joined by celebrated local performers Indika Upamali and Subuddhi Lakmali, supported by Sanithi Dias, Manoj Sanjeewa, Madhava Bandara, Tusith Simpson, and Anosh Ismail. Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort, part of Minor Hotels,recently the resort’s most exclusive and luxurious event venue to date. It was a grand evening of glitz,glamour and entertainment.
Nestled along Sri Lanka’s breathtaking southern coastline, Peace Haven Bungalow offers a stunning canvas for elegant weddings, private occasions, and high-end MICE events, blending timeless elegance with signature Anantara hospitality.
Perched on a cliff with panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, this bungalow offers a unique setting for up to 200 guests. As the only venue of its kind along Sri Lanka’s southern coast, it answers the growing demand for world-class luxury event spaces in the region with bespoke event planning and immersive culinary experiences.
Following the magnificent performance, guests enjoyed a lavish dinner and wine pairing experience, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Indian Ocean.
“This evening marks the beginning of an extraordinary journey for Peace Haven Bungalow,” said Erik Billgren, General Manager of Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort. “This venue is not just a space; it’s a catalyst for change in how we envision luxury celebrations, stories, and moments. Our signature Anantara hospitality is geared to uniquely cater to each guest from this stunning vantage point on Sri Lanka’s southern coast.”
The creation of Peace Haven Bungalow represents a shared vision with Hemas Holdings PLC, a partnership that harmoniously combines heritage, innovation, and a deep appreciation for Sri Lanka’s natural beauty. Offering panoramic ocean views, impeccable design, and tailored service, the venue is poised to set a new benchmark for premier events in Sri Lanka and beyond.
Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort is set within a 22-acre coconut plantation, The resort is the only property in Tangalle situated on a rocky outcrop, offering a secluded and scenic retreat along Sri Lanka’s rugged southern coastline. The resort features 152 rooms and villas, including 14 Garden Pool Villas, 10 Ocean View Pool Villas, six Beach Pool Villas, and two -bedroom garden pool villas.
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- Arrival of Ranil Wickremesinghe and Maithree Wickramasinghe
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- Barbara Segal and Hemant Dadlani
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- General Manager of Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort – Erik Billgren addresses the gathering
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- (L to R) Tasneem Moosajee, Shyamalee Tudawe, Kishore Reddy, Champika De Silva and two other guests of the event
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- Dinner followed by the Opera event
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- The team who performed at the Opera event
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- Event setup
Cinnamon Lakeside , the epitome of luxury and refined hospitality hosted a spectacular two-day dining experience at its acclaimed Royal Thai Restaurant to commemorate Songkran, the cherished Thai New Year Festival,recently
This exclusive event was graced by the esteemed presence of ambassadors, high-profile media representatives, dignitaries, and distinguished guests who gathered to immerse themselves in a sumptuous celebration of Thai culture and cuisine. Kamal Munasinghe, Area Vice President, warmly welcomed attendees, setting a tone of elegance and cultural reverence.
The evenings unfolded in a spectacular tapestry of flavours and traditions, masterfully curated by the culinary team of The Royal Thai Restaurant. Guests were delighted by an exquisite menu, reflecting authentic Thai culinary artistry, presented with flawless sophistication and meticulous attention to detail.
The vibrant ambiance was accentuated by opulent décor reflecting the essence of Songkran. Guests were enchanted by captivating traditional Thai performances and authentic rituals that beautifully symbolized the renewal and prosperity at the heart of Songkran.
Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo continues to be celebrated as a beacon of glamour and hospitality, curating unforgettable experiences that blend rich cultural traditions with modern elegance.
Pix by Darmasena Welipitiya
“Walk to Equality” – A Fashion Show Celebrating Life Without Labels was held recently, media representatives and distinguished guests gathered at Cinnamon Grand Colombo for the official press conference of the Walk to Equality fashion show It was an inspiring initiative presented by The Walk Model Academy in partnership with Cinnamon Grand Colombo. With the powerful tagline “Life Without Labels,” this event aims to redefine fashion by championing inclusivity, diversity, and empowerment.
Set to take place on May 19th, the Walk to Equality fashion show will feature a groundbreaking lineup of models, highlighting their confidence and individuality on the runway. This bold move challenges conventional beauty standards while providing a platform for often underrepresented voices in the fashion world.
The press conference offered a heartfelt look into the mission behind the show and the stories of the individuals involved. Organizers emphasized the transformative nature of the initiative—not just as a show, but as a movement. With a strong focus on social impact, the event seeks to promote empathy, equality, and acceptance through the universal language of fashion.
Collaborating closely with the Equality team and a host of creative partners, the show has become a beacon of what’s possible when communities unite for a common cause. The behind-the-scenes journey, from training to fittings, has been designed to uplift and empower each model, making the event more than just a moment on the runway—it’s a celebration of strength and self-expression.
Tickets for the Walk to Equality fashion show are now available for purchase online, with proceeds going toward the Meals on Wheels charitable cause, supporting rural children in need. Those interested in attending, contributing, or simply spreading awareness are encouraged to visit our social media channels for updates, ticket information, or to become a well-wisher for this important initiative.
The Academy extended thier deepest gratitude to all who have helped bring this vision to life. They shared a special thank you to Cinnamon Grand Colombo, title and hospitality partner, for their continued belief in the power of inclusion. They extended thier thanks for all their generous sponsors for thier support and help
Together, we walk toward a world where every life is valued, and every person is seen—a life without labels sums up thier motto
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