King Sasanka – Sri Lankan Writer & Retired Aviation Professional.

The Gateway of Light: Where the Mountain Meets the Sea at Kalutara Bodhiya   If you travel along Sri Lanka’s famous Galle Road, you will encounter a landmark that demands a pause. The Kalutara Bodhiya is more than just a temple; it is a spiritual crossroads. It is a common sight to see vehicles of all kinds, buses, tuk-tuks, and luxury cars, slowing down as passengers offer a coin to the roadside tills. This gesture of "subscription" for a safe journey transcends religion, uniting road users in a moment of shared respect. However, for those who choose to step out of their vehicles, a rare geographical spectacle awaits, one that is likely unique in the entire country. A 360-Degree Theater of Nature The Kalutara Bodhiya sits in a privileged position where the Kalu Ganga river meets the Indian Ocean. Because of this unique placement, on a clear day, the horizon offers a double gift: The Dawn of the Peak: Looking East over the river, you can witness the sun ris...

SOS in the Indian Ocean: The Law of Survival and the IRIS Dena Incident This is a surreal moment to be discussing maritime law.  The sinking of the IRIS Dena on March 4, 2026, is the first time since WWII that a submarine has torpedoed a surface warship in such a context, and Sri Lanka's response has set a modern precedent for how neutral nations handle humanitarian duty amidst a global conflict. In the early hours of March 4, 2026 , the southern coast of Sri Lanka became the stage for a dramatic test of international maritime law.   When the Iranian frigate IRIS Dena sent out a distress call after a devastating torpedo strike, it triggered a massive search-and-rescue (SAR) operation involving Sri Lanka and India. This incident is a masterclass in how the world handles "Grave and Imminent Danger." 1. The Language of Distress: Beyond the "Mayday" Under COLREGs Annex IV , a vessel doesn't just "shout for help."  It uses a specific, univer...