Sunday Times 2
Through history, heritageand landscapes – Royal Asiatic Society’s 181 year odyssey
View(s):As the humid heat of April envelopes Sri Lanka, reflection on the season of renewal, traditions, cultural heritage comes to the fore, on what our country is and what it once was. The seeker, the curious, and the scholar can find understanding in the cool haven and quietude of the Royal Asiatic Society of Sri Lanka (RASSL) in the heart of Colombo.
Established in 1845 over 181 years ago, the Royal Asiatic Society is the oldest academic Society in Sri Lanka. Originally formed as the Ceylon Branch of the Royal Asiatic Society (CBRAS) its initial purpose was for the colonial administrations, mainly the British, to understand the indigenous cultures and landscapes they governed. As the nation moved towards independence, the society had an increasing number of members who were native. Sir Ponnambalam Ramanathan was the first Ceylonese President.
Founded on February 7, 1845, the Royal Asiatic Society of Sri Lanka has been at the forefront of promoting the study and understanding of our nation’s cultural heritage, history, and traditions. The study of connected cultures was recognised.
RASSL’s influence on the nation’s intellectual infrastructure is unparalleled. The society was the ‘seed’ for many of Sri Lanka’s cherished institutions, including the National Museum, the National Archives, Department of Archaeology, The University of Ceylon. Others have arisen through papers or discussions arising from RASSL – the Registrar-Generals Department, the Observatory of the Department of Meteorolgy are some. Institutions such as the Central Cultural Fund and many others evolved.
The society’s double peer-reviewed academic journal (JRASSL) continues to be a prestigious source of new academic information. Since the pandemic, global reach has expanded with the monthly public talks held at the premises and online bringing new research and information to light for vibrant discussion.
The library is well-suited for researchers and academics with reference books of antiquity along with modern brochures and more.
The upcoming RASSL Research Conference 2026, Layers of Time: Heritage, Culture and Society in Sri Lanka will be held on June 13-14. It promises to be a definitive event for anyone interested in the preservation of the island’s rich cultural legacy.
The council and members of RASSL invite those interested to participate in our programmes, visit our library and interact with our members. Whether you are a seasoned specialist or a curious generalist, RASSL invites you to spend these sultry days in wonderment, exploring the landscapes and history of an island that continues to reveal its secrets.
- Shereen Amendra
President, Royal Asiatic Society of Sri Lanka
Visitor information
n Address: 96, Ananda Coomaraswamy Mawatha, Colombo 7, Sri Lanka
n Website: www.royalasiaticsociety.lk
n Hours: Sunday-Thursday 9 am to 5 pm