Image house with a throwback to the ’20s gets new lease of life
Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Wellawatte is a small sanctum of a temple, with the sibilant whispering of a bo tree and calm saffron robes but otherwise silent. The Sri Saddharmarama Maha Vihara, this year a century old, stands by the Kirulapone Canal, as it has since the days when Wellawatte was [...]
Binara Poya: A momentous day for women during the Buddha’s time
Today, September 7, is Binara Full Moon Poya – a very important poya for Buddhists, particularly women. This poya falls between the months of July and October when Upasampada bhikkhus and bhikkhunis (monks and nuns) observe the vassana (rainy season) staying indoors for three months. The most important event that took place on Binara Poya [...]
Where every product is a story of survival, strength and hope
The story of Palms Together is one of resilience, determination and creativity. In February 2025, a small group of women from Sri Lanka’s North and East began showcasing their work in Colombo under the Sivan Arul label. Today, their efforts have earned international recognition, with the Avery Dennison Foundation (ADF) awarding a major grant in [...]
Letters to the Editor
Democracy itself is at risk We are witnessing a disturbing global trend: the rise of right-wing governments and ideologies that threaten the safety, dignity and rights of minorities in countries across the world. From Europe to South Asia, North America to Latin America, right-wing leaders are increasingly using fear, nationalism and scapegoating to gain power. [...]
Appreciations
An outstanding Lankan who served with the UN Sena Wijewardane Sena Wijewardane who passed away a few days ago in Vienna, at the age of 90, was one of the outstanding Sri Lankans to serve with the United Nations. Most of his career was with the United Nations agency managing Palestine issues (UNRWA), and he was based first [...]
Art that is at once both meditation and resistance
In her latest exhibition at Colombo’s Saskia Fernando Gallery, multidisciplinary artist Shaanea Mendis invites viewers into an intimate showcase of watercolours and sculptural installations. ‘Remember to Breathe’ is a deeply personal meditation on grief, healing, and renewal. On view from August 29 to October 2, the exhibit draws on the quiet, cyclical process of healing, [...]
Malaiyaha Tamil community: A study on reconciliation in the face of polycrisis
A recently released report commissioned by the Sri Lanka Barometer, titled ‘Polycrisis and Reconciliation: Centering the Experience and Perspective of Malaiyaha Tamils’, is a thought-provoking examination of the role and perspectives of the Malaiyaha Tamil community in the reconciliation process of Sri Lanka. The study explores a number of key issues affecting the community, the [...]
Blood Moon: Tonight’s the night
Tonight, September 7, is a night to look up. A rare and breathtaking celestial event is set to unfold: a total lunar eclipse, popularly known as a Blood Moon. This isn’t just a show for professional astronomers; it’s a cosmic spectacle that will be visible to everyone in Sri Lanka, offering a chance for the [...]
Reliving unforgettable hits at LC
As the 125th year celebrations continue at Ladies’ College Colombo, a grand musical extravaganza titled ‘Musical Fest’ will unfold from September 17 – 20 at the Ladies’ College Hall bringing together junior and senior students, to relive excerpts from 10 unforgettable Broadway and Disney musicals that have lit up the LC stage in years past. [...]