King Sasanka – Sri Lankan Writer & Retired Aviation Professional.

Discover the truth behind LiDAR surveys at Sigiriya. Learn how 3D laser scanning and drone mapping were actually used for heritage conservation and digitisation. Uncovering the Truth About LiDAR at Sigiriya: Fact vs. Fiction Introduction Sigiriya, Sri Lanka's iconic ancient rock fortress and UNESCO World Heritage site, continues to capture global imagination. In recent years, viral social media claims have circulated online, suggesting that advanced LiDAR technology has uncovered a "huge hidden city" buried beneath the fortress complex.   While cutting-edge remote sensing and 3D documentation technologies have indeed been applied to Sigiriya, distinguishing between actual scientific research and exaggerated internet lore is crucial. This article separates verified archaeological data from hyperbole, exploring the genuine history of LiDAR and 3D laser-scanning projects at Sigiriya. 1. The Real History: "Digitising Our Heritage" (2017–2018) The most rob...

Explore what oceanographers, marine archaeologists, and carbon-dating experts reveal about Ramaketu (Adam’s Bridge). Discover whether this 48-km underwater chain is a natural geological formation or linked to the Ramayana. Ramaketu (Ram Setu / Adam's Bridge): A Scientific and Investigative Report The 48-kilometre chain of limestone shoals connecting Rameswaram Island in India to Mannar Island in Sri Lanka, widely known as Ramaketu or Ram Setu (and internationally as Adam's Bridge), stands at the crosshairs of myth, marine archaeology, and earth sciences. To investigate whether this structure is a natural geological occurrence or an engineered artefact linked to the Ramayana , we must examine the consensus and ongoing research from oceanographers, geologists, and archaeological scientists. 1. What Do Oceanographers and Geologists Say? Mainstream geological and oceanographic evaluations, including studies referenced by institutions like the Geological Survey of I...

Explore a comprehensive fundamental analysis of Maharaja Foods PLC (MFPE.N0000) on the Colombo Stock Exchange. Review financial growth, export drivers, key strengths, risks, and performance metrics for Sri Lankan stock market investors. Fundamental Analysis: Maharaja Foods PLC (MFPE) One-Sentence Summary Maharaja Foods PLC demonstrates robust top-line and net profit expansion driven by an export-heavy business model, though its equity profile is balanced by a low public free float and agricultural commodity dependencies. Key Strengths Export-Driven Revenue Stream: A substantial portion of revenue is generated from international markets (including the UK, Europe, Australia, and the Middle East), providing a natural hedge against domestic macroeconomic volatility. Solid Financial Growth Momentum: Post-listing financial reports highlight strong double-digit growth in both revenue and net profit, supported by proceeds from its initial public offering (IPO) and subsequent capital-rai...

  Vallibel Power Erathna PLC (VPEL) CSE Stock Fundamental Analysis & Performance Insights Explore a comprehensive fundamental analysis of Vallibel Power Erathna PLC (VPEL) trading on the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE). Review earnings per share, profit margins, key strengths, risks, and overall fundamental quality. Fundamental Summary One-sentence summary of what the fundamentals show: Vallibel Power Erathna PLC displays robust profitability, high operating margins, and solid cash reserves backed by diversified renewable assets, though its financial performance remains closely tethered to seasonal hydrology patterns. Key Fundamental Metrics at a Glance Earnings Per Share (EPS): LKR 1.69 Net Profit Margin: ~78% Debt-to-Equity Ratio: ~36% (healthy balance sheet leverage) Net Asset Per Share: LKR 4.34 3 Strengths Exceptional Profitability Margins: VPEL consistently registers stellar gross and net profit margins, frequently exceeding 75% due to the low marginal operat...

Discover the deep history of prehistoric Sri Lanka, the Balangoda Man hunter-gatherers, Fa-Hien Lena cave sites, and the enduring heritage of the indigenous Vedda people. A 38,000-Year Human Legacy in South Asia Sri Lanka possesses one of the oldest and richest prehistoric human records in South Asia . Anthropological and archaeological evidence confirms that anatomically modern humans ( Homo sapiens ) have inhabited the island for at least 38,000 years . This ancient foundation predates the island's recorded kingdoms and classical civilisations by millennia . The Balangoda Culture and Major Archaeological Sites At the core of Sri Lankan prehistory is the Balangoda Man , a term used by researchers to describe prehistoric hunter-gatherer populations linked to the island's unique Balangoda culture . These early communities adapted to local forests and grasslands through advanced survival strategies. Key highlights include: Sophisticated Toolmaking: They manufactured and util...