Business

Ambuluwawa sends a message of peace to the world

Published

6 months ago

2026/04/2

Sahan Weerasooriya

Dignitaries at the event.

30th anniversary marked with global initiatives, tourism surge, and meditation focus

Perched above the historic town of Gampola, where rolling hills meet drifting clouds, Ambuluwawa emerged this week as a powerful symbol of peace, sustainability, and renewal.

Marking the 30th anniversary of the Ambuluwawa Religious and Biodiversity Complex, foundation stones were laid for an International Meditation Centre and an International Library—two landmark initiatives aimed at promoting global harmony, spiritual reflection, and knowledge sharing.

The ceremony, held Saturday morning, was graced by the Maha Sangha, whose presence infused the occasion with deep spiritual significance.

Among them were the Most Venerable Karagoda Uyangoda Maithree Moorthi Mahanayake Thera of the Amarapura Maha Nikaya, Most Venerable Makulewe Wimala Mahanayake Thera of the Ramanna Maha Nikaya, Most Venerable Niyangoda Vijithasiri Anunayake Thera of the Malwathu Chapter of the Siyam Nikaya, and Most Venerable Wedaruwe Upali Anunayake Thera of the Asgiri Chapter.

At a time when global tensions and conflicts continue to claim lives, the Maha Sangha collectively invoked blessings for peace. Their message was clear and compelling: may the flames of war be extinguished, may lives be protected, and may all nations coexist in unity and compassion.

A solemn Sathya Kriya (act of truth) was conducted at the Ambuluwawa auditorium with the participation of Diyawadana Nilame Pradeep Nilanga Dela, MP and Attorney-at-Law Anuradha Jayaratne, and a large gathering of devotees.

Complementing the day’s proceedings, a spiritually significant all-night Pirith chanting ceremony was held on March 29 inside a specially constructed chamber within the iconic Ambuluwawa tower. As sacred chants resonated through the cool mountain air, they carried with them prayers for global healing, serenity, and the well-being of all living beings.

Beyond its spiritual essence, Ambuluwawa stands as one of Sri Lanka’s most remarkable biodiversity sanctuaries. Rising from a single mountain peak, it encompasses a rare concentration of ecological zones, supporting a diverse range of endemic plant and animal species.

This unique environmental setting has made Ambuluwawa a living example of conservation in action, where biodiversity is preserved alongside cultural and religious heritage.

Speaking at the event, Ambuluwawa Complex Chairman, Jayaratne highlighted the remarkable transformation of Ambuluwawa under its new management.

He noted that annual income had surged to around Rs. 300 million from a modest Rs. 11 million in earlier years, reflecting improved management and growing public interest. Tourist arrivals have also increased significantly—from around 15,000 visitors in the past to over 50,000 within the last four years—underscoring the site’s rising appeal both locally and internationally.

Jayaratne expressed confidence that, with the continued blessings and guidance of the Maha Sangha, Ambuluwawa would witness even greater development in the years ahead.

He emphasised that future initiatives would be carefully aligned with environmental sustainability and spiritual values.

Indeed, over the past decade, Ambuluwawa has steadily evolved into a major tourism hotspot.

Drawn by its distinctive tower, panoramic views, and multi-religious symbolism, visitors increasingly regard it as a unique destination that blends nature, culture, and spirituality. Authorities believe this tourism momentum can be further strengthened through carefully planned, eco-friendly initiatives.

Among these is a proposed cable car project aimed at improving access to the summit while minimising environmental disruption. If implemented with sustainability at its core, the project is expected to enhance visitor experience and elevate Ambuluwawa’s status on the global tourism map.

Central to the future vision, however, is meditation. The planned International Meditation Centre is expected to transform Ambuluwawa into a hub for spiritual tourism, attracting practitioners and seekers from around the world. In an age marked by stress and uncertainty, the tranquil surroundings of Ambuluwawa offer an ideal setting for mindfulness, reflection, and inner healing.

As it marks three decades of existence, Ambuluwawa stands at the crossroads of tradition and transformation. With its blend of biodiversity, spirituality, and growing tourism potential, it continues to send a timeless message to the world—that peace is possible when humanity learns to live in harmony with nature and within itself.

By Ifham Nizam

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Business

Indo-Sri Lanka Chambers forge alliance to drive infrastructure and real estate investment

Published

10 hours ago

2026/09/14

Thilina Walpola

The exchange of the MoU between the two organisations

By Sanath Nanayakkare

In a major boost to bilateral economic ties, the Chamber of Construction Industry of Sri Lanka (CCISL) and the Indo–Sri Lanka Chamber of Commerce & Industry (ISCCI) have signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to deepen cooperation in real estate, infrastructure, and urban development.

The agreement establishes a formal framework for both institutions to drive collaborative initiatives, including business delegations, high-level conferences, workshops, B2B matchmaking sessions, and technical site visits. Designed to bridge businesses, government institutions, and project stakeholders across the Palk Strait, the partnership aims to unlock new avenues for cross-border joint ventures and technology transfers.

A focal point of this newly minted partnership is the facilitation of an upcoming trade delegation from the National Real Estate Development Council (NAREDCO) of India. Comprising major Indian players in the real estate and infrastructure sectors, the visiting delegation will engage in targeted business meetings, workshops, and inspection tours of prominent construction projects in Sri Lanka.

Under the terms of the MoU, CCISL will serve as the principal host coordinator in Sri Lanka. In close consultation with ISCCI, the apex construction body will curate itineraries, identify viable projects for engagement, and facilitate high-level dialogues with key government agencies, regulatory bodies, and industry leaders.

With both nations prioritizing sustainable urban growth, modern construction technologies, and infrastructure expansion, industry leaders view the partnership as a timely catalyst for economic rejuvenation. The collaboration is anticipated to accelerate market access, knowledge exchange, and foreign direct investment into Sri Lanka’s burgeoning property and development sectors.

To ensure the success of the upcoming NAREDCO delegation, CCISL has issued an urgent appeal to statutory authorities and relevant project owners to come forward with viable investment proposals. Stakeholders holding projects seeking foreign investment or technical partnerships are invited to submit comprehensive details to the Secretary General and CEO of CCISL via email at secyces@gmail.com.

Both chambers emphasize that translating this foundational agreement into tangible partnerships and robust capital flows will significantly strengthen bilateral connectivity between the construction and real estate sectors of India and Sri Lanka.

Business

Hettich celebrates a decade in Sri Lanka with partner meet in Colombo

Published

11 hours ago

2026/09/14

Thilina Walpola

Over the past decade, Hettich has strengthened its presence in Sri Lanka through its focus on German engineering, innovation, quality and functionality

Hettich, the globally renowned German manufacturer of furniture fittings and architectural hardware known for its state-of-the-art manufacturing plants and magical interior solutions across the world celebrated a significant milestone in Sri Lanka, marking 10 years of presence in the country with its inaugural Partner Meet in Colombo.

The landmark event brought together Hettich’s key partners, stakeholders and industry leaders to celebrate a decade of growth, collaboration and shared success, while reaffirming the company’s long-term commitment to the Sri Lankan market.

Over the past decade, Hettich has strengthened its presence in Sri Lanka through its focus on German engineering, innovation, quality and functionality, contributing to the creation of contemporary and intelligently designed living and working spaces across the country.

The gala evening was graced by a distinguished delegation of senior leaders, including Dr. Andreas Hettich, Chairman, Hettich Group Advisory Board; S. K. Poddar, Chairman, Hettich India & Adventz Group; Mr. Akshay Poddar, Director, Hettich India; Andre Eckholt, Managing Director, Hettich India, SAARC, Middle East & Africa; Rahul Thakkar, Director – Sales, Hettich India & SAARC; and Dinusha Bhaskaran, Managing Director, Vallibel One PLC.

Business

GS Evo Motors launches all-new JMEV EWIND

Published

11 hours ago

2026/09/14

Thilina Walpola

Priyantha Perera, Chief Executive Officer of GS Evo Motors (left), and Sunil Wettasinghe, Chairman of GS Evo Motors, introducing the latest JMEV Ewind Electric SUV to the local market

GS Evo Motors Limited, the authorized distributor of JMEV electric vehicles in Sri Lanka, has officially launched the JMEV EWIND, a next-generation compact electric SUV. The vehicle is designed to offer strong performance, intelligent technology, premium comfort, and high safety standards, marking another milestone in Sri Lanka’s growing electric mobility sector.

The EWIND features a sleek, aerodynamic exterior with penetrating LED daytime running lights, trapezoidal chain-inspired LED tail lamps, 19-inch alloy wheels, and a bold silhouette. Inside, it offers a spacious cabin with a panoramic moonroof and retractable curtain, an ultra-thin suspended instrument panel, a D-shaped multifunction steering wheel, multi-colour ambient lighting, premium finishes, and electrically adjustable front seats.

The SUV is available in single-motor front-wheel drive configurations, producing up to 108 kW and 210 Nm, with 0–100 km/h acceleration in 8.9 seconds.