Features
Katina Pinkam becoming spectacles of grandeur

All temples have by now completed their katina pinkamas concluding the three months vas observed by their monks from July through September or August through October, depending on poya dates. This year unfortunately, like all other occasions in our lives, this ceremony too was curtailed. In fact the temple I take a monthly dane to and observe sil in, had its Katina pinkama in a branch temple away from Colombo. Otherwise it’s a full night’s pirit preceding the processional carrying of the civara (robe) to the temple at dawn with a dane to follow, inclusive of all lay persons present.
What directed my thoughts this week to this custom or ritual come down to us from Buddha’s lifetime is a niece turning incommunicado. She telephones me every other day to enquire after my well-being. Three weeks ago she told me she would curtail her calls as it was impossible to carry on a telephone conversation “with all the racket going on here.” Her neighbour, in a transport business, was reconstructing or modifying his large house in preparation for being the focal point of the Katina ceremony of a temple in the locality. This went on continuously for two and a half weeks with their lane blocked by his parked lorries and trucks. My niece’s husband could not take his car out; windows had to be kept shut all day to prevent dust from the next house entering in. But of course it did, with the noise, causing irritation in throat and ears. For five days previous and the night of the event, lights blazed along the drive.
Thus the disturbing thought that the Katina pinkama of reverence, piety, continuing a solemn tradition, was being marred and adulterated with too much spending, show and glitz. I am not wrong in saying its mostly new money lavishly spent by the nouveau riche. Temples and their monks can be no choosers of their devotees and cannot censor the manner of ceremonies associated with the temple being conducted. They are advisors only. The vas observance and its culminating gifting of a newly sewn and dyed robe by those devotees who cared more diligently for the monks, is a beautiful tradition and one connecting the Sangha and the third and fourth ‘supports’ – lay men and woman. It is also a tangible and to be preserved link between the time of Gautama Buddha’s life to present times and our lives.
Vas three months
The Esala Poya brings in the three month vas period for Buddhist monks, when they stay in their aranyas and temples and while renewing their vinaya vows, devote more time to self purification and meditation. It is a time when the symbiosis between the ordained and laity is heightened. The monks, who depend on their dayakas and dayakis for their sustenance and physical wellbeing, during the vas three months depend more heavily. Lay persons too who serve a temple gravitate more to it to see to the welfare of the monks. In return for this and as a gesture of appreciation, there are more programmes planned for the welfare of the people: weekly if not daily bodhi poojas and bana preachings. This fulfills somewhat the monks’ aim at making their supporters get to know better the Path that needs to be followed.
Origin
Soon after the Buddha formed his Sangha around the five meditators to whom he preached his first sermon setting in motion the Wheel of Dhamma in Sarnath, the saffron clad monks went about preaching the new teaching. The Jains, followers of the teaching of Nataputta Mahvira (599-527 BC) abhorred most the killing of creatures and it being the monsoon season in July to October in India, they would reduce their going about to not trample worms and other creatures that emerged from the rain sodden earth. When they saw the new band of Buddhist monks walking about during the rainy season they objected and fault-found. And so it is said the Buddha forbade monks from going outdoors during the three monsoonal months. But his ruling was the result of a more significant reason than the Jains’ censor. Noticing how drenched monks were, returning to their abodes of residence, even after the daily pinna patha (alms receiving) round, the Buddha imposed restriction on their journeying forth, to prevent ill health. This resulted in stronger and closer ties between devotees and monks, as food and other necessities had to be brought to the monks. The Buddha advocated his newly formed Sangha to renew vows and generally refresh their minds and bodies in meditation, while remaining indoors.
Comment
Wondering whether my condemnation of extravagant katina pinkamas was unjustified, I asked a learned monk for his opinion. He replied: “Your concern is that the kathina has deteriorated and become a sort of scandal. I may agree with you up to a point. However, there are not well endowed temples that wait for kathina robe ceremony to get a dire need of the temple accomplished. It is because during the vas period the laity are prone to be more generous than usual and are keen to do something tangible for the sasana. It is a sort of win-win situation.
“At the end of the rainy season both parties are extremely happy and the Katina is the grand finale. The cloth or robe offered is to the community of monks who spend the Vas season there and the Sangha meet and decide as to who should get it. It is a great privilege to get the Katina civara because it’s a decision of the community.”
This learned and pragmatic monk gave me another thought that had not entered my mind. He said that in Thailand for instance, devotees too make a promise or vow to desist from indulging in one or more acts that may contribute to their not being fully sila or blameless, equating basically to one or more of the five precepts. Hence men vow to stop imbibing intoxicants while women may vow a simpler way of living or reducing vanity and such like. Thus there is constraint, more meditation, a kind of sacrifice and the resultant purification to both the Sangha and laity consequent to the three months of retreat.
So it is again a more inward looking attitude that we Buddhists should observe. While outwardly concerned about the monks in the temple we go to, and seeing more closely to their welfare by being active devotees, we should also consider our behavior and take note of where improvement is needed to be more Buddhistic. The Buddha preached much about minding one’s behaviour, becoming an island to oneself. Hence the three months should be used by us laity to better ourselves. The Christians observe Lent, the Muslims a month of fasting and Hindus frequently observe self purification fasting and poojas. Here is an addition to the process of moral self improvement by observing sil on poya days and fasting on that one night each month. We could make a resolution for a three month period come the Vas session.
I myself will try not to get irritated when I hear of extravagant Katina pinkamas commencing in rich homes. I regret now having got all het up when I saw a woman dayaki carrying a huge arrangement of roses to place at the Buddha statue before the pirit ceremony in the temple I go. I thought of what she could have done for a poor family with the Rs 3,000 (at least) she had spent on flowers and thus also making a show of it. Live and let live is the policy to follow; looking inward and reflection thereof is to be promoted. Also being thankful to the dedicated monks who live in all parts of Sri Lanka keeping alive the true Dhamma of the Buddha.
Features
Religious extremism set to gain from rising Israel-Iran hostilities

Many of the international pronouncements on the current dangerously escalating Israel-Iran hostilities could be seen as lacking in adequate balance and comprehensiveness. The majority of these reactions could be said to be failing in addressing the aspects of the conflict that matter most.
For example, there is the recent UN General Assembly resolution on the crisis which calls for an ‘immediate, unconditional and lasting ceasefire in the Gaza’ and which goes on to urge ‘Member States to take necessary steps to ensure Israel complies with its international legal obligations.’ An immediate and durable ceasefire is indeed the number one requirement in the Middle East today but could it be ‘unconditional’? Could it ignore the principal requirement of Israel’s security? These posers need to be addressed as well.
Besides, it is not only Israel that should be compelled to meet its ‘international legal obligations.’ All the states and actors that feature in the conflict need to be alerted to their ‘international legal obligations’. While it goes without saying that Israel must meet its international legal obligations fully, the same goes for Iran and all other Middle Eastern countries that enjoy UN membership and who are currently at odds with Israel. For instance, Israel is a UN member state that enjoys equal sovereignty with other states within the UN fold. No such state could seek to ‘bomb Israel out of existence’ for example.
As a significant ‘aside’ it needs to be mentioned that we in Sri Lanka should consider it appropriate to speak the truth in these matters rather than dabble in what is ‘politically correct’. It has been seen as ‘politically correct’ for Sri Lankan governments in particular to take up the cause of only the Palestinians over the decades without considering the legitimate needs of the Israelis. However, a lasting solution to the Middle East imbroglio is impossible to arrive at without taking into account the legitimate requirements of both sides to the conflict.
The G7, meanwhile, is right in stating that ‘Israel has a right to defend itself’, besides ‘reiterating our support for the security of Israel’ but it urges only ‘a de-escalation’ of hostilities and does not call for a ceasefire, which is of prime importance.
It is only an enduring ceasefire that could lay the basis for a cessation of hostilities which could in turn pave the way for the provision of UN humanitarian assistance to the people of the Gaza uninterruptedly for the foreseeable future. There is no getting away from the need for a durable downing of arms which could engender the environment required for negotiations between the warring parties.
Meanwhile, some 22 Muslim majority countries have ‘warned that continued escalation threatens to ignite a broader regional conflict that could destabilize the Middle East’ and called ‘for a return to negotiations as the only solution regarding Iran’s nuclear program.’ This statement addresses some important issues in the crisis but one hopes that the pronouncement went on to call for negotiations that would take up the root causes for the conflict as well and pointed to ways that could address them. For instance, there is no getting away from the ‘Two State Solution’ that envisages peaceful coexistence between the principal warring parties.
The ‘Two State Solution’ has been discredited by sections of the world community but it outlines the most sensible solution to the conflict. As matters stand, the current escalating hostilities, if left unchecked, could not only lead to a wider regional war of attrition but bring about the annihilation of entire populations. There is no alternative to comprehensive negotiations that take on the issues head on.
Besides, all who matter in the current discourse on the crisis need to alert themselves to the dangers of appealing to the religious identities of communities and social groups. When such appeals are made religious passions are stirred, which in turn activate extremist religious outfits that operate outside the bounds of the law and prove difficult to rein-in. This was essentially how ‘9/11’ came about. Accordingly, speaking with a sense of responsibility proves crucial.
In fact, it could be argued that a continuation of the present hostilities would only benefit the above outfits with a destructive mindset. Therefore, comprehensive and constructive negotiations are of the first importance.
The above conditions should ideally be observed by both parties to the conflict. Israel, no less than the Islamic and Arab world, needs to adhere to them. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has no choice but to say ‘No’ to extremists within his cabinet and to ‘show them the door’, inasmuch as hot-headed extremists in the Islamic and Arab world need to be opposed and alienated by the relevant governments.
Meanwhile, the US is on a duplicitous course in the Middle East. Whereas it has no choice but to rein-in Israel and convince it of the need to negotiate an end to the conflict, it is choosing to turn a blind eye to Israel’s military excesses and other irregularities that are blighting the Gazans and the ordinary people of Iran. It ought to be plain to the Trump administration that it is promoting a barbaric war of attrition by continuing to provide Israel with the most lethal weaponry. Currently, it is anybody’s guess as to what the US policy on the Middle East is.
The Islamic and Arab world, on the other hand, should come to understand the imperatives for a defusing of tensions in the region. Decades of conflict and war ought to have made it clear that the suffering of the populations concerned would not draw to a close minus a negotiated peace that ensures the wellbeing of all sections concerned.
As pointed out, the security of Israel needs to be guaranteed by those quarters opposing it. This will require the adoption of a conciliatory attitude towards Israel by state and non-state actors who have thus far been hostile towards it. There needs to be a steady build-up of goodwill on both sides of the divide. If this is fully realized by the Arab world a negotiated solution will be a realistic proposition in the Middle East.
Features
She deserves the crown

We had no luck coming our way at the Miss World 2025 contest – not even our immediate neighbour, India – but I’m glad that Miss Thailand was crowned Miss World 2025 as Thailand happens to be my second home … been to Amazing Thailand many times, courtesy of the Tourism Authority of Thailand.
In fact, even before the Miss World 2025 grand finale, which was held at the beautiful venue of the HITEX Exhibition Centre, in Hyderabad, Telangana, India, my colleagues at office all predicted that Miss Thailand, Opal Suchata Chuangsri, would emerge as the winner.
Yes, indeed, Miss Thailand not only won the hearts of millions but also became the first ever Thai to claim this much sought-after title.
Prior to winning the title of Miss World 2025, Opal Suchata was Thailand’s representative at Miss Universe 2024 and took home the third runner-up title.
Her Miss Universe crown, unfortunately, was subsequently forfeited, due to a contract breach, but she did not let that demotivate her, though, and went on to compete and win the title of Miss World Thailand 2025.
Coming from a family that was in the hospitality industry, her upbringing, in this kind of environment, made her aware of her culture and helped her with her communication skills at a very young age. They say she is very fluent in Thai, English, and Chinese.
Obviously, her achievements at the Miss World 2025 contest is going to bring the 22-year-old beauty immense happiness but I couldn’t believe that this lovely girl, at 16, had surgery to remove a benign breast lump, and that made her launch the ‘Opal For Her’ campaign to promote breast health awareness and early detection of breast cancer, which also became the topic of her ‘Beauty with Purpose’ at the Miss World 2025 contest.
Opal Suchata intends to leverage her Miss World title to advocate for other women’s health issues, as well, and sponsor a number of charitable causes, specifically in women’s health.
Her victory, she says, is not just a personal achievement but a reflection of the dreams and aspirations of young girls around the world who want to be seen, heard, and create change.
What’s more, with interests in psychology and anthropology, Opal Suchata aspires to become an ambassador for Thailand, aiming to represent her country on international platforms and contribute to peace-building efforts.
She believes that regardless of age or title, everyone has a role to play in inspiring others and making a positive impact.
And, what’s more, beyond pageantry, Opal Suchata is an animal lover, caring for 16 cats and five dogs, making her a certified “fur mom.”
She also possesses a special musical ability—she can play the ukulele backwards.
Opal Suchata is already a star with many expressing admiration for her grace, leadership, and passion for making a difference in the world.
And there is also a possibility of this head-turner, from Thailand, entering the Bollywood film industry, after completing her reign as Miss World, as she has also expressed interest in this field.
She says she would love the opportunity and praised the Indian film indstry.
She akso shared her positive experience during her visit to India and her appreciation for the Telangana government.
Congratulations Opal Suchata Chuangsri from Amazing Thailand. You certainly deserve the title Miss World 2025.
What is important is that the Miss World event is among the four globally recognised beauty pageants … yes, the four major international beauty pageants for woment. The other three are Miss Universe, Miss Earth and Miss International.
Unfortunately, in our scene, you get beauty pageants popping up like mushrooms and, I would say, most of them are a waste of money and time for the participants.
Features
Wonders of Coconut Oil…

This week I thought of working on some beauty tips, using coconut oil, which is freely available, and quite affordable, as well.
Let’s start with Coconut Oil as a Moisturiser…
First, make sure your skin is clean and dry before applying the coconut oil. This will allow the oil to penetrate the skin more effectively.
Next, take a small amount of coconut oil and warm it up in your hands by rubbing them together. This will help to melt the oil and make it easier to apply.
Gently massage the oil onto your face and body, focusing on dry areas or areas that need extra hydration.
Allow the oil to absorb into your skin for a few minutes before getting dressed.
Start with a small amount and add more if needed.
* Acne and Blemishes:
Apply a small amount to the affected area and gently massage it in. Leave it on overnight and rinse off in the morning. Remember to patch test before applying it to your entire face to ensure you don’t have any adverse reactions.
* Skin Irritations:
If you’re dealing with skin irritations, coconut oil may be just what you need to find relief. Coconut oil has natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and calm irritated skin.
Simply apply a thin layer of coconut oil to the affected area and gently massage it in. You can repeat this process as needed throughout the day to keep your skin calm and comfortable.
* Makeup Remover:
To use coconut oil as a makeup remover, simply apply a small amount onto a cotton pad or your fingertips and gently massage it onto your face, in circular motions. The oil will break down the makeup, including waterproof mascara and long-wearing foundation, making it easy to wipe away.
Not only does coconut oil remove makeup, but it also nourishes and hydrates the skin, leaving it feeling soft and smooth. Plus, its antibacterial properties can help prevent breakouts and soothe any existing skin irritations, so give coconut oil a try and experience its natural makeup removing abilities, and also say goodbye to acne and blemishes!
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