Apparel exporter Brandix has elevated the wall calendar, a ubiquitous utility in Sri Lankan homes and offices, to an elegant expression of thought-provoking information and corporate philosophy that pays tribute to the wisdom and design acumen of Sri Lankans of yore.
The Group's 2010 calendar edition, themed 'Water in Vessels' offers an inspiring and nostalgic look at the conscientious and considerate manner in which water was once -- and in some parts of the island is still -- stored, transported or dispensed, the group said in a press release.
Each of the 12 leaves dedicated to the months of the year, presents a simple every day vessel that graced the homes of the royal and the humble alike, and provides well-researched vignettes of information on how it was used. From the simple grace of the Kalagediya, the sturdy Kotalaya and the finely contoured Nembiliya to the austere Patraya and intricate Kendiya, the calendar provides examples of how water was treated as a precious resource in a culture of profound respect for the environment and for customs.
It tells us how the Vil Koraha was used as a mirror by royalty to glimpse their reflections as well as that of the new moon, and that King Parakramabahu I had his first bath in such a basin. It enlightens us on how the Mehaka Jala Piripahaduwa, placed beneath a urinal, was used more than a millennia ago, to purify soiled water before it was released to the environment, and how a small crucible called a Pae Thatiya was used to measure time.
"Take a thoughtful look," the calendar exhorts users. "Perhaps it will stir you to push for change in our collective attitude towards managing this precious resource, a movement supported wholeheartedly by Brandix." The 2010 calendar is an extension of its predecessor titled "Water in Reflection," and is a subtle yet evocative articulation of the Brandix Group's Corporate Social Responsibility theme 'Water is Life' under which thousands of needy families have been provided with access to clean water and sanitation. |
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