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Photo focus: Heroes of a bygone era
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When statues of prominent historical figures are sculpted, they are made to honour them for the pivotal role they played in shaping the country’s identity.Dozens of such statues are found in Colombo and other major towns in the country. The statues are a tribute to the service rendered by these individuals, and dedicated to ensure their deeds are remembered by future generations.
Many of these statues however, are in a terrible state, with no regard paid to ensure the dignity of these great men and women are upheld.
Most statues are covered with bird droppings and their surroundings are littered with garbage. Once or twice a year perhaps, when the birth, death or some other anniversary related to the figure is commemorated, steps are taken to wash the statue and its environs.
But this cleaning operation is performed only to provide photo opps. for politicians who arrive to garland the statue and have their photographs taken.
Our photos today capture the indignity these icons who fought for our independence and religious revival are subject to on most days of the year.
The indignity is plain to see.
F.R. Senanayake freedom fighter
Anagarika Dharmapala who led the religious revival during the colonial era
Ven. S. Mahinda Thera an independence hero who called for a boycott of imported goods
S.W.R.D. Bandaranaike former premier, nationalist and author of the ‘Sinhala Only’ Act
Communist Party leader and freedom fighter Pieter Keuneman