Symposia & Conferences

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Access to Education for Children with Learning Disabilities: Inclusive Primary School Teachers’ Efficacy in Adapting Classroom Instructions for Children with Learning Disabilities.
(Access To and Through Education Conference, 2021) Madushani, K.A.T; Dantanarayana, N.D.
The purpose of the study is to investigate how primary school teachers’ efficacy in adapting classroom instructions for children with disabilities affect the access to inclusive education. Teachers’ efficacy refers to teachers’ own ability on his or her capabilities to achieve the outcomes of the students’ educational needs. An effective education participation of children with disabilities would rely on the efficacy of teachers to adapt classroom instructions. This quantitative study was carried out with sixty primary school teachers including 51 females and 09 males who teaching for children with learning disabilities were selected using purposive sampling method. The study setting was inclusive primary schools in the Thanamalwila educational zone in Sri Lanka. A Telephone-administered questionnaire was used to collect data and data were analysed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics. According to the results, a majority of primary teachers had the certain level of efficacy to make equity, diversity and adapting classroom instruction in inclusion practices for children with learning disabilities. Teachers’ educational qualification was associated with teacher efficacy level in making equity, diversity and adapting classroom instruction in inclusion practices but other demographical factors such as age, training in special education, undergone teacher training programme related to disabilities and years of training students with disabilities is not associated with teachers’ efficacy in make equity, diversity and inclusion. Children with learning disabilities benefit from the efficacy of teachers to make equity, diversity and inclusion when teaching in inclusive classroom environments. Teacher training needs to address these crucial aspects. The findings of the studies are contributed to literature regarding ‘primary school teachers’ efficacy in equity, diversity and inclusion in teaching with learning disabilities in the Thanamalwila education zone’
Acoustic similarities between Sinhala language and Assamese
(Centre for Asian Studies, University of Kelaniya, 2015) Goswami, G.
The study of specific languages which are linked to certain areas of research has become increasingly common and essential to the understanding of the language as a whole. This paper aims to study, analyze and compare two languages – Sinhala and Assamese and find out the similarities in them. The researcher came in close contact with the aboriginal Sri Lankan people who speak Sinhala language and found surprising similarities between Assamese and Sinhalese language. Seeing this similarity, the researcher got in touch with more people, went through research journals and related books and found that the roots of both the languages are same as they trace their history to the Indo Aryan language which itself is a fallout of the Indo European family. About fifty percent of the world’s population speaks a language belonging to the Indo European family. Languages of this family are spoken on all continents, but are predominantly seen in Europe, Russia, Australia and parts of South Eastern Asia and India.
Administration of Udugampola, sub kingdom: A Historical and Archaeological Legacy
(Centre for Asian Studies, University of Kelaniya, 2015) Wijesuriya, D.
This paper aims to bring forward with a new perspective of the remaining factors concerning the historical and archaeological backdrop of Udugampola, a sub kingdom of the Kotte kingdom existent in the history of Sri Lanka. A trail of provincial administration ruled by deputies under the guidance of the king can be observed at certain periods in the history of Sri Lanka. Such an administrative divisions were called Upa Rajadhani or sub kingdoms. Udugampola at the Gampaha district is one of such sub kingdoms of the Kotte kingdom. The available historical sources such as the battle of Alakeshwara in Rajaawaliya provide proof for the fact that King Sakalakala Wallakabahu, the son of Veeraparakramabahu VIII of Kotte had ruled this region, during the Kotte period. The palace of the king of Udugampola was at the premises of the present Uttararama temple, where a pond and remnants of a moat is still being identified. However, this legacy is diminishing with each passing day. In the spotlight cast over prominent ancient kingdoms such as Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, the value and importance of ancient sub kingdoms like these with archaeological significance stands diminished. With very limited discussion about these sites, the possibility to be forgotten over time threatens the existence of their evidence.
Adoption of Green Supply Chain Practices in Manufacturing Companies in Sri Lanka
(Staff Development Center, University of Kelaniya, 2015) Jayarathna, B.C.P.
The concept of Green Supply Chain Management is being discussing by the researchers today more than ever before. It is because of environmental issues raised through the process of delivering the products to end user. It becomes one of the main sources of serious environmental problems. Therefore most of the organizations tend to accept the green practices as a concern to environmental sustainability. Therefore this study aims to identify the level of adoption of green supply chain practices of manufacturing firms in Sri Lanka and to identify the key derivers that influence to adopt green supply chain practices of manufacturing firms in Sri Lanka. For this purpose structured questionnaire is used to collect data from the sample of ISO 14000 certified manufacturing companies in Sri Lanka and structural equation model is used to analyze data. Theoretical scope of the study includes identifying external factors based on institutional theory and internal factors based on resource based view for adopting green supply chain practices while empirical scope is narrow down to the manufacturing companies of Sri Lanka. Identifying the trend that the world need to be changed for environmental aspects due to global issues, it is important to study the green supply chain management since it is one of the ways to reduce environmental impacts of firms’ operations and for sustainability. And also the findings of the study will be more contributed to enhance the adoption of green supply chain practices by manufacturers, suppliers and the government.
Ahimsa: A conceptual tenet distinguishing Jainism and Buddhism from other religious orders
(Centre for Asian Studies, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2017) Jain, S.
‘Ahimsa’ or non-violence, as a distinct tenet, forms the pivotal conceptual foundation of various religious thoughts in the Asian societies. In some religious orders, such as Jainism and Buddhism this postulate has been institutionalized to form their bedrock. This paper is essentially divided into two parts; the first is a descriptive narration of this tenet of Ahimsa in the contemporary religious thoughts in early history of Asia while the second seeks to revisit the historic events recorded in the different religious orders to bring to fore the extent to which this tenet was worked out in practice in those societies. On a larger perspective, during the relevant period of inquiry, the paper reveals convergence of various religious thoughts on the relevance and adoption of Ahimsa as a religious practice but simultaneously also distinguishes these very same religions in so far as its practical adoption and the daily chores of their followers. Ancient religious texts / epics, in so far as these can be treated as mirrors of the practices adopted by the contemporary societies, reveal to a significant extent the levels to which Ahimsa was practices in a way of life. The paper seeks to trace these and other aspects to reveal the significance of this essential tenet which distinguishes the Jain and Buddhist philosophies from other prevailing religious orders during the period of inquiry. On a larger level, the paper seeks to establish a rationale behind the existing religious and possibly social practices of those following these religious orders.
Airāvata in Sanskrit Literature – Religious and Socio-Cultural Perspective
(Centre for Asian Studies, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2016) Deshpande, P.
Literature of any language is closely connected with nature as well as social culture of the established society. Elephant, a common, popular and powerful animal is widely taken care of in Sanskrit literature. It has been given different epithets, viz. Gaja, Mātaṅga, Kunjar, Airāvata etc. Most of these epithets are either attributed to it due to its functional or physical characteristics. Airāvata in Sanskrit literature is a Mythological figure. It also has religious and socio - cultural aspects. It was a son of the Irāvati and was mount of Lord Indra. It was having four or five tusks and was symbolic in nature. It was regarded as the guardian of the directions. Airāvata was always very powerful and prominent in nature and conferred upon the title of the King of elephants. Data sources and analytical approaches This presentation is based upon different literary sources like Mahabhārata, different Paurānic texts and other Sanskrit Classical Literature. Aim of the Presentation In this paper the attempt will be made to show the early occurrences of Airāvata elephant and its connection to mythology, symbolism, culture and the society.
The Alluring and Immemorial Practice of the Art of Khol in Barpeta Satra
(International Seminar on Assamese Culture & Heritage, 2018) Das, M.K.
BarpetaSatra, established in 1583 AD by MahapurushMadhav Dev, is a prominent place of worship for the Vaiashnavites of Assam. A vast auditorium Rangiyal Griha was also built in the vicinity of the Satra at the time of its inception. In this Rangiyal Griha religious and mythological dramas, devotional songs and related musical instruments have been rehearsed and performed relentlessly for the last 434 years. In the later periods, some portions of these art forms were made part of the daily prayers. To ensure continuity as well as regularity and standard, certain clans residing in places adjacent to the Satra were entrusted with the responsibility of carrying out the task of exercising and preservation of original forms. These clans are still bearing the said responsibilities. Out of the above mentioned art forms, Khol is a Satriya percussion leather instrument and it plays an essential role in the whole business, as, it is indispensable in Borgeet (devotional song), Satriya Classical dance, and Bhaona (Satriya drama). As the knowledge and instructions of playing on Khol is being handed over orally, from generation to generation, there is very little written information and scholarly exploration. Modern documentation has also not been done in this regard. In the recent years, the present researcher has made extensive attempts to describe and record the notations of this performing art, so as to establish its heritage, riches, uniqueness and also to help preserve it for future learners who need to have the proper guidance about the pure form. In this present paper, attempts will be made to present before you a brief description of the performance of this instrument, though similar to some other Indian percussion instruments, can claim its uniqueness.
Analysis of Design and Structural Qualities of Earthenware Storage Products: Use of Kalaya in Sri Lankan Context
(University of Kelaniya, 2015) Ranasinghe, D.
According to the Coomaraswamy (1949) there are four category of domestic clay ware items can be identified in the traditional houses in Sri Lanka as Cooking, processing, storage and transport objects. Sri Lanka had a grate endurance history for earthenware products and it origination goes back to prehistoric era. It was evaluated according to the usage and functionality of the product. As a result of the modernizing and needs of the people, objects and its usage were changed. Storage clay products are developed and designs for several purposes, they got inspirations for natural objects likes, labu ketaya, shells, that they were formerly used. They were identified earthenware is a proper material to produce storage items without getting any side effect for the consumer and foods. Liquid and dry substances used for storage. Kalaya is a one of the most popular and greatest design in the earthenware industry. It has traditional identity and advanced structural and aesthetical pleasing qualities to cater to the functionality. Earthenware storage product is such a vast area to study. This research focuses only about the storage Pot- Kalaya, examining its design, structural qualities and functionality. Earthenware products played a huge role in tradition. Clay ware can be identified as a horizon of the cultural empire and solid item which explains the past. Kalaya is a greatest creation in the earthenware industry. But in present, most of products less qualities with aesthetically, functionally and traditional objects were rarely used in the current society. New generations are not aware of the historical value of the product, design values, senses and how it can be observed or relevance to the usage. Kalaya is used as a research element in this paper, because it needs to be exploring about design, structural and functional qualities of the product. The methodology of the research was based on grounded theory method, the analysis is explored through actual descriptions made by observer, manufactures, historical records and existing products. The result of the research analysis leads different areas about traditional design of Kalaya or clay pot. It is a greatest design in the earthenware tradition in Sri Lanka. , it is developed to cater to the functionality. It has a superb shape and form, not only that but also it has good structural qualities, suitability for the functional usage, specially it is a talent of the craftsman. These findings are important to apply and process new designs for the earthenware industry in Sri Lanka.
An analysis of the influence of site interpretation in tourist satisfaction: with special reference to heritage sites in Sri Lanka
(Centre for Heritage Studies, University of Kelaniya, Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2019) Gunasekara, Indrachapa
Tourist satisfaction is identified as one of the major factor in tourism industry when delivering service to a specific market. Tourist satisfaction is influenced by different components. Information is an essential factor in tourism in order to meet the tourist satisfaction. Site interpretation plays a vital role in tourist information. The present study is focused on analyzing the influence of site interpretation on tourist satisfaction towards heritage sites. The specific objectives of the study were, 1) to identify the details that expected by tourists from heritage site interpretation and 2) to identify tools and techniques use for site interpretation and to identify the tourist perception on site interpretation in Sri Lankan heritage sites. This qualitative research has used primary and secondary data for the analysis and convenient sampling technique was used to gather primary data. Data was gathered from three heritage sites with equal samples. A semi structured questionnaire was used as the data collection tool. Significance of the present study is to identify the influence of site interpretation in tourist satisfaction and to provide suggestions to establish a productive tourist interpretation facility at heritage sites. Moreover, by identifying tourist expectation through interpretation, there is an ability to introduce more customer based interpretation systems in Sri Lankan heritage sites.
An Analysis on Potentials of Developing Spiritual Tourism in Sri Lanka – with special reference to Buddhist Pilgrimage Activities
(University of Kelaniya, 2015) Gunasekara, I.
Spiritual Tourism is one of the emerging forms of tourism that practice by most of the countries in the world. Each religion has unique activities; the devotees and scholars who are fond of practicing those, visits the religious sites. In this regard, the spiritual tourism has being increasing and most of the countries that have strong religious and spiritual backgrounds are promoting Spiritual Tourism. Sri Lanka as a most prominent destination for Buddhist Pilgrimage has the high potentiality for promoting Spiritual Tourism. This study attempts to analyze the potentials of developing Buddhism Based Spiritual Tourism in Sri Lanka. The study was based on data gathered by a field study. The objectives of this qualitative research were to analyze the current usage of Buddhist heritage in tourism, to find out the potentials of developing Spiritual Tourism in Sri Lanka based on Buddhism, to build up strategies for Spiritual Tourism Development in Sri Lanka. The significance of the study was to develop a form of tourism with the use of Buddhist pilgrimage potentials available in Sri Lanka.
An Analytical Study of the Concept of Soul Theory in Jainism
(Centre for Asian Studies, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2017) Sobitha Thero, Karapikkada; Wanarathana Thero, Wanarathana; Sumangala Thero, Pahiyangala
In the philosophy of eastern thinking, Jainism is subjected to comprehensive discussion and analysis. It is possible to find out a lot of factors on Jainism from the early Buddhist tenants as well as other religious teachings. Jainism is of several principle teachings: Extreme Non-violence, Theory of Karma, Soul theory and Theory of Syād are some of the prominent teachings in Jainism. The world annotation has been done in Jainism by means of the spiritualism which was analyzed under the soul theory. They emphasize two entities which are regarded by way of the fundamental elements in Vēda, Upanisad and Sānkya philosophy, consisted not only of permanent characteristics but also impermanent characteristics. Obviously, Jainism goes beyond the meaning of Sath which was taught by the other philosophies. Jainism mentions by learning Sath that it is capable to see the permanence and impermanence at the same time: Uppāda vya dhravya yukthan sath. According to Jainism, there are nine divisions of Sath (existence) in the universe. Among these nine, Jīva (spirit) means soul theory. According to Jainism, the concept of soul is of two fold as Jīva (spirit) and Ajīva (non-spirit). Here, the teaching of Ajīva is divided into two parts as Rūpa (form) and Arūpa (formless). In this context Rūpa means person. The sky, Time, Elements, Fruit and Permanency are regarded as Arūpa. The meaning of Jīva was similar to the teachings of Prāna and Āthma which ware taught by other religions. Jainism proclaims volitional action as the fundamental characteristic of Jīva: cetanā lakshane jīvak. The volitional action, which is existed in spirit, affects to make an inequality among the beings as low and high. According to the Jainism, beings who belong to the lowest level are living on the earth, water, and vegetation. In this manner, Jainism is not based on Sathkāryavāda or Sathkāyavāda in relation to the Jīva. Therefore the firm objective of this paper is to make an analytical discussion regarding the Jain stand point on the soul theory.
An Analytical Study on the Role of the Woman in Käma-Sütra
(Staff Development Center, University of Kelaniya, 2015) Jayawardhana, K.B.
Käma-sütra (the science of sensual gratification) that is the principle of acquisition of trivarga such as dharma (Ethical behaviour), artha ( Acquisition of valuable things) and käma (Sense gratification) was compiled between 1st - 6th A.D. by Vätsyäyana, a great sage. Man as well as woman has the unavoidable responsibility to maintain the satisfaction of mundane life. People will instinctively try to obtain sensual gratification through food and sex. In this stage the woman has invaluable role that will ultimately lead to the transcendental level of complete freedom and unconditional happiness. All damsels should learn art of sex with 64 arts and other scriptures in order to develop skills that will help to bring prosperity to their home as well as get independent income in case of widowhood or financial difficulties of the husband or his family. Wife has different roles such as mother, sister, friend, chief organizer, monitor and psychologist of the house. Woman has been given due right to stand against injustice. She has command in home. Wife is the accountable character who should maintain the harmony and peace and responsible to retain husband form unconventional behavior. Six kinds of lady teachers who are major in related fields guide damsels. Although people believe that the profession of the gaëikä is ignoble, according to the käma-sütra woman who engage in this profession has been honored even by the kings, wise and ministers. Princes, Princesses and daughters of ministers have learnt under the supervision of those respected and well versed women. They provide services as musicians, artists and dancers.
Analyzing the “Soft Power” of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine
(Centre for Heritage Studies, University of Kelaniya, Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2019) Kapoor, Sindhu
Jammu is fortunate to be the important seat of shaktism in India, with Shri Mata Vaishno Devi attracting not less than 70 -80 lakh pilgrims from around the globe. Mata Vaishno Devi’s shrine is located in a cave of the Trikuta Hills of the Jammu region and is one of the foremost places of pilgrimage in India. It is situated 61 kilometres to the north of Jammu and is a prime destination in terms of pilgrimage Tourism in the country. As such, it has contributed overwhelmingly to the growth and development of the entire area in particular and of nation in general. The present paper is a humble endeavour to highlight the holy shrine as the leading mixed Heritage site, which has immense intrinsic “Soft Power” to spread the message of “VOCTORY OF GOOD OVER EVIL”, Prosperity, Divinity and above all – DEVI as a life Bestower and final Killer. The objective of this study is to make a holistic assessment of the social as well as economic impact of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine and its pilgrimage as the binding force, keeping in view the annual increase of 10-12% pilgrims at a daily average of 18,000 to 20,000 per day.
Ancient and modern Indian soft power politics as message of peace in heritage generation and management
(Centre for Heritage Studies, University of Kelaniya, Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2019) Singh, Bijay Beer; Sen, Chander; Ven. Sumedh Thero
Historical evidences emphasized Indian culture is full of soft power on the path of Dhamma i.e. extensively used by Ashokan era (273–236 BC) and his followers. Ashoka's Dhamma was not simply a collection of high-sounding phrases. He consciously tried to adopt it as a matter of state policy; he declared that "all men and my children" and "whatever exertion I make, I strive only to discharge debt that I owe to all living creatures." It was totally new and inspiring ideal of kingship. In the Arthashastra, the king owed nothing to anyone. Ashoka expounded his policy of Dhamma through his edicts. By engraving his views about Dhamma on these edicts, Ashoka tried to directly communicate with his subjects. These inscriptions were written in different years of his life. The inscriptions can be divided into two categories. A small group of inscriptions reveal that the king was a follower of Buddhism and were addresses to the Buddhist church—the samgha. These inscriptions are declarations of Ashoka's relationship with the Buddhist order. In the inscriptions (edicts) of Ashoka Raja found throughout the area of ancient India it has been stated that Buddhism also spread westward to areas of Macedonia and Greece. The inscriptions of Ashoka Raja were made in stone, on metal and on the pillars. Thus use of medical facilities, education and language learning, food festivals, cinema and other art forms, diasporas, support for electoral procedures – and religion, a key component of soft power. India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, who is credited with having laid the foundations of India’s foreign policy, was acutely conscious of this, especially in relation to Asia. Yoga, Ayurveda, the Indian Diaspora and religion have come to acquire an important place in this regard. Likewise, the Modi government has used Hinduism and Buddhism effectively to promote the national interest in the Indo-Pacific region.
Ancient Buddhist route: Pataliputra to Nepal
(Centre for Heritage Studies, University of Kelaniya, Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2019) Ara, Prof. Badara
Even though Ancient Bihar is not the birthplace of Buddha, it is closely associated with the rise and development of Buddhism. It was the training ground of Gautama Buddha after he became a wondering ascetic, and it was here in Bodh Gaya that he attained supreme spiritual knowledge. His missionary activity was largely carried in Bihar. Rajgriha, and Vaisali were his favorite places of residence or monsoon resorts. It was in Bihar again that first three great council of Buddhist were held at Rajgriha, Vaishali and Patliputra respectively which fixed the Buddhist canon and gave a definite shape to that religion. It was an attempt to study the ancient Buddhist route from Pataliputra to Nepal. Numerous Missionary and Monumental work were done to propagate dharma. The pillar at Rummindei is of unique interest since it has revealed to the modern world the spot hallowed by the birth of the Buddha. Pillar at different places like Rampurva, Lauriya Nandangarh (Ashokan Pillar and Stupa) and Lauriya Areraj and different Stupa possibly marked the course of the ancient Buddhist route.
Ancient corridor of Pakistan linkages with rest of other world and its impact on trade culture and pilgrimages
(The International Conference on Land Transportation, Locomotive Heritage and Road Culture - 2017, 2017) Aslam, N.
Geographically in ancient times the term Pakistan applied to the North West region of Subcontinent. Owing to its peculiar geographical location ancient Pakistan had been closer contact with Afghanistan, China, Central Asian and West through Gandhara with many routes. The routes gradually converted into roads and highways. In ancient Pakistan many types of corridors developed such as king highway, caravan routes, pilgrims routes, trade routes and military routes. Grand Trunk road is the best example of king highway which was established by the Achaemenians dynasty. The Uttarapatha was the major rote of commercial and cultural exchange between the North-western borderlands of South Asia and Northern India. It was a Northern route started from Magadha through the Gangetic Basin and passes running through the region of Gandhara to far-away Western Asia as a royal trade route combined with a constant inflow of immigrants from highland Asia. The Silk road (modern Karakoram highway) was a historic road from Taxila to Kashghar via Thaha Kot,Chilas ,Gilgit and Hunza. The Silk route mainly a pilgrim route but provided an opportunity to discover the possibilities of trade. Khyber Pass route is the most famous route attracted migrants and armies. Migration of Aryans, Greeks, Scythian, Kushan and Huns developed a new political and cultural history of this region and served as an introduction pad for Buddhist spread across the Hindu Kush and Karakorum mountains. All routes from the highland of Afghanistan, China and Central Asia met at Taxila and it marked an important junction of routes to Kashmir and Chilas. The location of Taxila at the main gate to India has a network of routes connected to ancient Pakistan, Central Asia, Iran, Afghanistan and China. It was mainly responsible for its development into a political economic and cultural Centre. Besides these, there were many routes and roads; between Sindh and Punjab, Gandhara and Northern India, plains of Punjab to Afghanistan and Central Asia and Gandhara to China. These main routes exercised for commercial and cultural exchange between the Northwestern and Northern India to Mathura, Taxila and Bactria in Northern Afghanistan and Western Central Asia and played a significant role in the development of culture and civilization in South Asia. The ancient routes of Pakistan provide different discoveries regarding many cultural values and its phases of expansion in south Asian region. This research paper highlights the different ancient routes of Pakistan linkages with Central Asia China Afghanistan and India. The cultural activities developed different periods linking with ancient route. In this regard ‘culture’ is concerned with the transaction of political social and economic values. Evidences of these exchanges are linked with the existence of coins and other trading commodities explored in this region. Commerce is the numbers of facilitating activities in exchange of commodities. Different culture systems and supporting activities found in the background of Pakistani culture are deeply analyzed and explored in regard to its related impact on the welfare and development of human wellbeing of these routes. The routes mainly discovered the Historical and cultural activities of different periods and linked with famous route of pilgrim. Pakistan served as a station between the east and west which received and transmitted cultural, artistic, political, commercial and religious currents in different directions. The political and cultural history of Pakistan frequently marks on numismatic evidence, art, architecture, and historical documents and inscriptions. This paper is focused on exploring different routes of Pakistan and culture activities and its development with its evidences in different historical period around theses route. Furthermore useful recommendations to link these ancient developments with current modern society are also extracted from this study. This research tells that how ancient culture and their values are having sound linkup with the ancient routes.
Ancient ethics and practices as a soft power on environmental conservation in Sri Lanka
(Centre for Heritage Studies, University of Kelaniya, Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2019) Damayanthi, M.K. Nadeeka; Star, Cassandra
Sri Lanka is one of the high biodiversity hotspots in the world. Despite the fact that country covering only 0.013 percent of the world’s land surface, it has the highest species density for flowering plants, and animals in the Asian region. However, this rich biodiverse environment has been threatened by human activities over the decades. These environmental damages adversely impact on climate and weather, human health and life, agriculture, food security, economy and sustainable development in the country. Therefore, it is important to find a suitable method to protect the environment and biodiversity. This paper examines how ancient ethics and practices can be used as soft power to protect the environment in the contemporary world. The researcher used books and articles related to ancient practices on environment, agriculture and society to gather data. Data analysing as done using descriptive method. The findings reveal that some ethics and practices in variga sabha, chena cultivation, and agricultural practices like ‘kurulu paluwa’ (belt in paddy lands adjacent forest, cultivated for birds to feed on) and eco-friendly crop protection methods like kem contributed to protect environment in the country. Moreover, practices related to cascade tank system like protect mukalana (catchment forest), gas gommana (large tree belt located in upper inundation area) and perahana (water filter consist of shrubs and grasses) helped to protect environment. This paper argues that some of the ancient agricultural, irrigation and social practices were beneficial for environmental protection and sustainable development and it could be used as soft power to resolve several current environmental problems. This could be achieved by integrating ancient ethics and practices into present environmental policy and practices while disseminating knowledge about ancient practices among the citizens of Sri Lanka.
Ancient Knowledge –System on the Elephant: A Study from the Agnipurāna and the Bṛhatsaṁhitā
(Centre for Asian Studies, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2016) Sahoo, P.C.
Elephant as an animate commodity has been serving the humanity in various capacities since the time immemorial. Though mostly useful for the effluent ones it attracted the sagacity of ancient Indian intellectuals who occasionally devoted themselves to study and record various behavioural aspects such as gajacikitsā, hastilakṣaṇa, mātaṅgakrīḍā, gajaśānti, hasti-iṅgita-nirūpaṇa of the giant quadruped. The same is evident through a large number of references on elephants noticed in almost all branches of the Sanskrit literature starting from the epics till the latest Sanskrit compositions of the post medieval period. In this paper, two important texts from the ancient Sanskrit literature namely the Agnipurāna and the Bṛhatsaṁhitā are taken for discussion of which one belongs to the Purāna branch and the other to the branch known as astrology. The former text is found to dedicate at least three chapters and the latter one two chapters for dealing with different knowledge-systems as mentioned above, prevalent in connection with the various groups of elephants [nāgayūtha]. A comprehensive study of the materials available in these two texts on the above topic would reveal some significant points in addition to the already existing set of knowledge regarding the ancient elephant-life and the human acquaintance with the same.
Ancient local governance practices as soft-power on contemporary governing issues in Sri Lanka
(Centre for Heritage Studies, University of Kelaniya, Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2019) Damayanthi, M. K. Nadeeka M. K. Nadeeka
Contemporary Sri Lanka has been facing many severe and complex issues in governing process. High level of bribery, corruption and nepotism practices in public sector (bribery and corruption index was between 52-97 among 175 countries from 2002-2018), increase of crime rate (recorded number of grave crimes were 60,870 in 2008 and 36,355 in 2018), high budget deficit (equal to 5.3% of the Gross Domestic Products in 2018), human right violation, media suppression, abuse of power and public resources by politicians and bureaucrats are some of the governing issues in contemporary Sri Lanka. In additin, some groups have been requesting proper power-sharing mechanism since the British period. The country has adopted several practices to mitigate the governing issues over the years, but many of them are failed. This background provides a room for finding suitable implications to resolve the governing issues in the country. Therefore, the researcher examines what and how ancient governing practices used to resolve the present governing issues in Sri Lanka. The study is conducted based on a literature review and qualitative approach. Local governance practices from 377 BC (King Pandukabhaya) to 1236 AD (Polonnaruwa Kingdom) provide many clues to mitigate several governing issues. As described in Hopitigamuwa slab inscription (935 AD-938AD) committee system for implementing responsibilities of the local government, transfering the power to local governments on day-to-day activities like agriculture, irrigation, general administration, maintenance and protection of public resources, banking services, land administration, make decisions on fine and tax rate, maintaining law and order and judicial services are some of them. Planned cities including land for waste disposal which practiced by king Pandukabhaya, a collective decision (traders, government officers and villagers/village leaders) on fine and tax rate, collective responsibility of preventing crime in the villages are some other practices used in ancient Sri Lanka which could be used as soft power in current governing process.
Ancient Religious and Astronomical Symbols – A Reappraisal
(Centre for Asian Studies, University of Kelaniya, 2015) Srivastav, O.P.
Symbols have the pivotal role in any society or any culture of mankind. You cannot think of a society without any symbols. Symbols are used to relate a tangible object with an intangible concept. Symbols give meaning to objects, so members can identify each other. As far as the importance of symbols is concerned, humans would essentially be even less organized in groups without the sets of symbols that are associated with each culture. Another significant characteristic of symbols is its concurrence with religion. Religion itself is based on a belief in the supernatural power or God. However, symbolism started playing a significant role in trying to explain the different aspects of their respective religions. Every religion has its own body of symbols which suggests the ultimate reality, the deity and other spiritual truths. There are religious symbols, like ‘swastika, AUM, Cross or the crescent moon to name a few. Buddhism is very symbolic. The whole world knows eight auspicious symbols. A variety of Hindu symbols are used in art, sacred objects and ritual. They usually signify Hindu concepts, the attributes of deities, or the gods or goddesses themselves. No religion is so replete with symbols as this ancient religion and all Hindus are touched by this all-pervasive symbolism all through the life in some way or the other.