April, 10, 2024
By Prof. Samitha Hettige
Some Sinhalese & Tamils will celebrate the Sinhala – Hindu NY showcasing the historic bond in the weekend while a minority is struggling to continue the dispute using ‘Kurundi’ lands. The ‘Kurundi’ monastery constructed in the 1st century BC is considered sacred as the Buddha had visited the site during his 2nd visit. In the 6th century AD, King Akbo has constructed the 'Kurundi’ lake probably for cultivation & drinking water etc. Kalinga Maga whom Paranawithana believed came from Malaysia (City of Holin as per Chinese chronicles/ present Klung valley, Malaysia) has had a base at ‘Kurundi’ (Ref. Mahavansa). The British backed by H.C.P. Bell gazetted approx 78 acres of the ‘Kurundi’ temple lands as an “archaeological site” in 1933 & left it to the Sinhalese & Tamils in 1948. After 3 decades they started killing each other for petty reasons for over 30 years. The ground reality in ‘Kurundi’ has changed with the rest of the society by now. Why should Sri Lankans unite to use ‘Kurundi’ to develop the district & the country? How can they do it? From whom can they learn?
The Cambodian Story
Approx 98% of Cambodians are ‘Theravada’ Buddhists. ‘Ankor Wat’ in ‘Siem Reap’ is their showpiece Buddhist base. Some Cambodians believe that Emperor Jayawarman VII was a reincarnation of King Dutugamunu. He gave glory to ‘Siem Riep’ & Cambodia by expanding ‘Ankor Wat’(Ref Cambodian History). During the Vietnam War US forces bombed the magic roads in the jungles of Cambodia bordering Vietnam to kill the Vietnamese who humiliated the mighty US forces with basic tactics. During the offensives thousands of Cambodians died. Hence, average Cambodians were anti US then. Some believe that it lead to the rise of ‘Polpot’ (Politically Potential man) of the ‘Khmer Rough’ (Red Cambodians). Within few years Cambodians realized the gravity of giving governing power to the wrong. During the past few decades Cambodians proved they are practicing ‘Theravada’ Buddhists. With positive attitudes, they managed to attract FDIs from its former aggressor USA & many including China’s Belt & Road Initiative (BRI – China’s 21st century international trade net). They even went to the extent of opening a ‘Hard Rock’ café (iconic American brand) in Angkor Siem Reap & it has established as one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. Similarly Sri Lankans can use ‘Kurundi’ to attract the world with its archaeological sites, mixed cultural flavours & the lake etc. They may add more attractions as in ‘Slender West Lake’ in China.
Slender West Lake, China
UNESCO in China
The ‘Slender West Lake’ in Yangzhou, Jiangsu Province got its name due to its long & slender shape. The lake developed from the ancient moats as in Jayawardenepura. Rich investors & especially salt merchants settled in the scenic area around the lake during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). It was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014 due to the water features, flora & fauna, & cultural significance. Local authorities have also launched a night tour program where the ‘Slender West Lake’ is transformed into a fairy tale wonderland when the sun sets with colorful illuminations. Father of Singapore late Lee Kuan Yew is known for identifying the best Sri Lankan talent. His pick Lyn De Alwis introduced the Night Safari at the Singapore Zoo. It still attracts tourists & generates high income. Hence, these concepts aren’t new to SL.
In addition the UNESCO recently named six more Geoparks in China on its list of ‘Global Geoparks network. They include; Enshi Grand Canyon Tenglongdong Cave in Hubei, Changbai Mountain in Jilin Province, Wugongshan Mountain in Jiangxi Province & mountains in Xingyi, Guizhou Province, Linxia in Gansu Province & Longyan in Fujian Province. This increases the total number of UNESCO Global Geoparks in China to 47 (highest within any country/ ref. Chinese stats). In 2015 UNESCO Geoparks list was created to recognize geological heritage areas of international significance. If there are No Proper Plans, Sri Lankans will be divided & economically defeated. If ethnically united they will see the right direction even without a compass to come out of the crisis.
Hard Rock Café at Angkor, Siem Reap, Middle
(Views expressed are personal)
Video Story
