Saturday, December 16, 2023

The Kallady Bridge: A Timeless Icon in Batticaloa, Sri Lanka

Nestled amidst the vibrant hues of Batticaloa, Sri Lanka, lies a bridge that whispers tales of history, resilience, and a touch of the extraordinary.

This is the Kallady Bridge, a sentinel of the Batticaloa Lagoon, and a landmark that has witnessed over a century of the region's ebb and flow.

A Legacy in Iron:

Built in 1924, the Kallady Bridge, initially named the Lady Manning Bridge, was once the pride of Sri Lanka's engineering prowess.

Standing tall as the longest iron bridge in the country, it served as a vital artery, connecting the bustling city of Batticaloa with its verdant suburbs.

Its intricate latticework of iron, a testament to colonial-era craftsmanship, has stood stoic against the sun, wind, and the whispers of the lagoon for generations.

Beyond Steel and Stone:

The Kallady Bridge is more than just a transportation link. It's a canvas for local legends and folklore.

The rhythmic gurgling of the lagoon beneath its arches is said to be the song of mythical "singing fish," luring travellers with their melodious tunes.

For the locals, it's a place of quiet contemplation, a spot to watch the fiery sunsets paint the sky, and a meeting point for generations to share stories and laughter.

A Bridge to the Future:

While the original Kallady Bridge was replaced by a modern two-lane structure in 2013, its legacy lives on. The old bridge, now a protected monument, stands as a silent observer, a reminder of Batticaloa's rich past.

It symbolises the region's ability to adapt and evolve while cherishing its heritage.



Gal Vihare (ගල් විහාරේ පොලොන්නරුව).

Monday, December 04, 2023

FOR PASSIVE CONSUMPTION OR INTRUSIVENESS

The use of social media can vary significantly from person to person, and people have different reasons for maintaining accounts with minimal engagement.

Here are some reasons why some individuals may have social media accounts but rarely engage in activities:

Passive Consumption:

Some people prefer to use social media as a passive tool for consuming information rather than actively participating. They may be interested in staying updated on others' lives without necessarily sharing much about their own.

Observation:


For some individuals, social media serves as a platform to observe and gather information about others, such as friends, family, or acquaintances. This could be out of curiosity, a desire to stay informed, or even for professional reasons.

Professional Networking:

In the professional context, individuals may maintain social media accounts to stay connected with colleagues or industry updates. They might use these platforms as professional networking tools without engaging in personal activities.

Privacy Concerns:

Some people are concerned about privacy and prefer not to share personal details or activities on social media. They may use the platforms solely for monitoring and consuming information without actively participating in discussions or sharing their own content.

Time Constraints:

Busy schedules and time constraints may lead some individuals to be passive observers on social media. They may not have the time or inclination to actively engage in social media activities, but they still want to stay informed about others.

Introversion:

Some people are naturally introverted and don't feel comfortable interacting with others online. However, they may still be curious about what's going on in the lives of their friends and family, so they may follow their accounts and avoid posting or commenting themselves.

Fear of judgment:

Some people are afraid of what others will think of their posts or comments, so they may choose not to engage with social media at all. However, they may still be interested in seeing what others are up to, so they may follow their accounts and avoid posting or commenting themselves.

While some individuals may indeed use social media for benign reasons, it's essential to be mindful of boundaries and respect others' privacy.

If someone is using social media to gather information about others in a way that feels intrusive or inappropriate, it can be perceived as spying or stalking.

Social media etiquette encourages respectful and responsible use, and individuals should be aware of how their actions may impact others.

As for whether or not this amounts to spying or stalking, that is a matter of opinion. 

Some people would say that it is perfectly acceptable to follow someone's social media account without interacting with them, as long as you are not doing so for malicious reasons. 

Others would say that it is an invasion of privacy, especially if the person you are following is not aware that you are checking their profile.

Ultimately, it is up to each individual to decide whether or not they feel comfortable following someone's social media account without interacting with them. 

There is no right or wrong answer, and what is considered acceptable will vary from person to person.

It's crucial to strike a balance between staying informed and respecting the privacy of others in the online environment.

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Saturday, December 02, 2023

The Enduring Elegance of " Mul Anduma ": A Glimpse into Kandyan Wedding Traditions

The Mul Anduma is believed to have originated from India and was introduced to Sri Lanka during the Nayakkar era (16th-18th centuries). 

The Nayakkar dynasty, which ruled over parts of southern India, had a significant cultural influence on Sri Lanka, particularly in the Kandyan region. 

The Mul Anduma, with its origins in Indian courtly attire, seamlessly blended into the Kandyan cultural milieu, becoming an integral part of Kandyan wedding traditions.

The Nayakkar kings were known for their patronage of the arts and their appreciation for fine clothing. 

The Mul Anduma, with its intricate embroidery and rich fabrics, would have been a coveted piece of attire among the Nayakkar nobility. 

When the Nayakkar kings extended their rule to parts of Sri Lanka, they brought with them their cultural traditions, including the Mul Anduma.

The Kandyan people, with their own rich cultural heritage, embraced the Mul Anduma, adapting it to their own customs and aesthetics. 

The Mul Anduma gradually evolved, incorporating local motifs and designs while retaining its core elements. 

Today, the Mul Anduma stands as a testament to the cultural exchange and adaptation that occurred during the Nayakkar era, serving as a symbol of both Indian and Sri Lankan heritage.

The Mul Anduma, also known as Nilame Adum, stands as a symbol of refined elegance and cultural heritage, adorning the groom in traditional Kandyan weddings. 

It is traced back to the rich tapestry of Sri Lankan history, where it was once the exclusive attire of Kandyan royalty. 

Over time, it has gracefully adapted to local customs and practices, becoming an integral part of Kandyan wedding traditions.

A Legacy of Royalty

The Mul Anduma's roots can be traced back to the 19th century when it was the customary attire for Kandyan kings and nobles. 

Its regal aura and intricate craftsmanship reflected the status and prestige of these elite figures. 

The ensemble comprised four main components:

Hat: 
A four-cornered crown-like headdress embellished with gold and silver threads, featuring a golden tree-like ornament symbolizing royalty.

Jacket: 
A velvet jacket adorned with elaborate embroidery, often depicting motifs like peacocks, swans, or lions.

Draped Cloth: 
A long, white cotton or silk cloth, meticulously draped around the waist and culminating in a large, intricately folded pleat resembling a flower bud.

Belt:
A broad belt with a large, ornate buckle, often featuring a gurula (eagle) motif.

Cultural Adaptation and Enduring Significance

While the Mul Anduma initially belonged to the realm of Nayakkar dynasty, its captivating beauty and cultural significance gradually extended beyond the confines of palaces. 

Over time, it seamlessly integrated into Kandyan wedding traditions, becoming the quintessential attire for Kandyan grooms.

The adaptation of the Mul Anduma into popular culture brought with it some subtle changes. 

The velvet jacket, once reserved for royalty, became more accessible, often crafted from silk or satin. 

Additionally, the embroidery designs evolved to incorporate motifs that resonated with the wider populace.

Despite these adaptations, the Mul Anduma retained its core essence, preserving the rich heritage and cultural symbolism associated with it. 

It continued to embody elegance, sophistication, and a deep connection to Kandyan traditions.

Today, the Mul Anduma stands as a beacon of Kandyan identity, proudly worn by grooms on their wedding days. 


It represents a harmonious blend of tradition, artistry, and cultural heritage, captivating onlookers with its timeless elegance.

The Mul Anduma's enduring significance lies in its ability to transcend time and social boundaries. 

It serves as a tangible link to the past, preserving the legacy of Kandyan royalty while simultaneously adapting to the evolving cultural landscape. 

For Kandyan grooms, it is a source of pride, a symbol of their heritage, and a cherished memento of their wedding day.

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