Jesus and Sri Lanka: Faith, History, and Influence
Jesus Christ, the central figure of Christianity, has had a profound impact on cultures and nations worldwide, including Sri Lanka. While Sri Lanka is predominantly a Buddhist country, Christianity has played a significant role in its history, shaping its religious landscape, social structures, and cultural interactions. This article explores the connection between Jesus and Sri Lanka, tracing the arrival of Christianity, its influence, and how the teachings of Jesus continue to resonate in the country. Christianity’s Arrival in Sri Lanka Christianity is believed to have first reached Sri Lanka in the early centuries AD, possibly through traders and missionaries from the Middle East and India. According to some historical accounts, St. Thomas the Apostle, one of Jesus’ disciples, traveled to India around 52 AD, establishing Christian communities in the Malabar region. Since Sri Lanka had strong trade ties with South India, it is possible that Christianity reached the island through these interactions. However, the more documented spread of Christianity began with the arrival of the Portuguese in 1505. The Portuguese brought Roman Catholicism to Sri Lanka, actively converting locals, particularly along the western coastal regions. They built churches and introduced Christian education and missionary activities. Later, the Dutch (who arrived in the 17th century) promoted Protestant Christianity, mainly through the Dutch Reformed Church, followed by the British (who took control in 1796), who encouraged Anglicanism and other Protestant denominations. Jesus’ Teachings and Sri Lankan Society The message of Jesus—love, compassion, forgiveness, and service to others—has influenced Sri Lanka’s Christian communities and beyond. Many Christian institutions, including schools, hospitals, and charitable organizations, have been inspired by Jesus’ teachings to serve society. Some of Sri Lanka’s leading educational institutions, such as St. Joseph’s College and St. Bridget’s Convent, were founded by Christian missionaries and continue to play a vital role in the country’s education system. Christianity in Sri Lanka also emphasizes interfaith harmony. While there have been periods of religious tension, many Sri Lankans, regardless of faith, admire Jesus as a spiritual teacher. Some Buddhists see Jesus as a Bodhisattva (an enlightened being who seeks to help others), appreciating his compassion and selflessness. Christian Festivals and Worship in Sri Lanka Christmas and Easter, the two major celebrations in Christianity, are widely observed in Sri Lanka, even by non-Christians. Christmas, commemorating the birth of Jesus, is marked by church services, nativity plays, and festive decorations. Easter, celebrating Jesus’ resurrection, is observed with special church services and processions. Churches, such as St. Lucia’s Cathedral in Colombo and the Basilica of Our Lady of Lanka in Tewatte, serve as important religious centers where Sri Lankan Christians gather to worship and reflect on Jesus’ life and teachings. The Shrine of Our Lady of Madhu in Mannar, one of the most revered Christian pilgrimage sites in Sri Lanka, attracts thousands of believers every year. Miracles and Legends Associated with Jesus in Sri Lanka Over the years, there have been stories and testimonies of divine interventions attributed to Jesus in Sri Lanka. Many Sri Lankan Christians believe in miraculous healings and blessings received through prayer. The influence of Jesus is also evident in popular Sri Lankan Christian hymns and devotional music that reflect deep faith and reverence. Conclusion While Christianity is a minority religion in Sri Lanka, the teachings of Jesus Christ continue to inspire many. His message of love, peace, and forgiveness resonates beyond religious boundaries, contributing to interfaith dialogue and social harmony. From historical influences to modern-day Christian communities, Jesus’ legacy in Sri Lanka remains strong, shaping lives and strengthening faith across generations.
Is It Worth Visiting Sri Lanka? A Complete Travel Guide
Sri Lanka, the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean,” is a destination that offers breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and diverse wildlife. But is it really worth visiting? If you’re planning your next adventure, here’s why Sri Lanka should be on your bucket list. Stunning Natural Beauty Sri Lanka boasts some of the most picturesque landscapes in the world. From golden sandy beaches to lush green mountains, the country offers diverse natural beauty. Beaches – Unwind at pristine beaches like Mirissa, Unawatuna, and Arugam Bay. Hill Country – Explore the scenic beauty of Ella, Nuwara Eliya, and Kandy. Waterfalls – Witness mesmerizing waterfalls such as Ramboda Falls and Diyaluma Falls. Rich Culture and History Sri Lanka’s history dates back thousands of years, with influences from Buddhism, Hinduism, and colonial powers. Ancient Cities – Visit UNESCO World Heritage sites like Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, and Sigiriya. Temples – Experience spirituality at the Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy. Colonial Influence – Discover Dutch and British-era architecture in Galle and Colombo. Wildlife and Adventure If you love wildlife and outdoor activities, Sri Lanka is a paradise. Safari Tours – Spot elephants, leopards, and exotic birds at Yala, Wilpattu, and Udawalawe National Parks. Whale Watching – Get a chance to see blue whales and dolphins in Mirissa. Hiking – Trek up Adam’s Peak or explore Horton Plains National Park. Delicious Cuisine Sri Lankan food is a treat for your taste buds. From spicy curries to seafood delights, you’ll love the variety. Rice and Curry – The staple dish of Sri Lanka. Hoppers & Kottu Roti – Must-try street food. Fresh Seafood – Enjoy crab curry and grilled fish at coastal towns.Affordable Travel Destination Compared to other tropical destinations, Sri Lanka is budget-friendly. Accommodation, transportation, and food are reasonably priced, making it ideal for backpackers and luxury travelers alike. Warm and Friendly Locals Sri Lankans are known for their hospitality. Whether you’re in a bustling city or a rural village, you’ll always be greeted with a warm smile. Is Sri Lanka Worth Visiting? Absolutely! Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or adventure seeker, Sri Lanka has something for everyone. With its affordable travel costs, welcoming people, and diverse attractions, it’s a destination you shouldn’t miss. Plan Your Trip to Sri Lanka Today! Ready to explore Sri Lanka? Book your tickets, pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable journey!
Weekly Pola In Sri Lanka according to the districts – ශ්රී ලංකාවේ සති පොල
“weekly pola” in Sri Lanka refers to a local, weekly farmers market, where people gather to buy fresh produce, spices, herbs, and other local goods, essentially a vibrant community market often considered the center of trade in rural villages; “pola” is the Sinhala word for market. You can click below districts to find the list of Weekly Pola or Sathi Pola. Ampara, Anuradhapura, Badulla, Batticaloa, Colombo, Galle, Gampaha, Hambantota, Jaffna, Kalutara, Kandy, Kegalle, Kilinochchi, Kurunegala, Mannar, Matale, Matara, Monaragala, Mullaitivu, Nuwara Eliya, Polonnaruwa, Puttalam, Ratnapura, Trincomalee, Vavuniya.
What’s driven the phenomenal performance in China’s film industry?
People are seen at a cinema in the Xicheng District of Beijing, capital of China, February 3, 2025. /Xinhua Editor’s note: Liu Chunsheng, a special commentator on current affairs for CGTN, is an associate professor at the Beijing-based Central University of Finance and Economics. The article reflects the author’s opinion and not necessarily the views of CGTN. During the Spring Festival of 2025, the Chinese film market achieved historic results, breaking multiple records in box office revenue. So far in 2025, the total box office revenue of the Chinese film market has reached 10.5 billion yuan (about $1.46 billion), surpassing the North American market and ranking first in the world. This achievement is not only a milestone in the development of China’s film industry, but also marks the growing strength of China’s cultural industry. In recent years, the Chinese film market has shown explosive growth, with box office revenue exceeding 60 billion yuan in 2019. With the gradual improvement of the industry chain, continuous innovation in technology and the improvement of the audience’s consumption level, the Chinese film market has gradually shifted from a “chaser” to a “leader” in the global film industry. There are multiple factors behind this phenomenon. Firstly, the content creation of China’s domestic film industry is increasingly rich. In recent years, many excellent domestic films have been released, such as “Wolf Warrior II” to “Hi, Mom” to “The Wandering Earth II.” These films have achieved great box office results in the domestic market and also gained increasing recognition in the international market. Secondly, the continuous innovation of technological means, especially the application of IMAX, 3D and other technologies, has enabled Chinese films to reach world-leading levels in visual effects, providing audiences with a more immersive viewing experience. In addition, with the rise of online platforms, the integration of online movie watching and offline cinemas has also promoted the prosperity of the film market. The rise of China’s film market reflects the enhancement of Chinese cultural confidence. Among the numerous domestic films in 2025, “Ne Zha 2” is undoubtedly a landmark work. It is predicted that this film may set a new box office record in the history of Chinese film. This film not only continues the popularity of its predecessor, but also achieves breakthroughs in multiple dimensions such as creation, technology and cultural expression. Every fight and scene transition in the film has been carefully scheduled and designed to maximize the visual and emotional impact. The film has sparked widespread discussion and sharing, quickly setting off a “Ne Zha craze” on the Internet. This proves the strong influence of Chinese animated films in the Internet era and shows the successful exploration of digital communication and cross-platform operation in China’s film industry. The sales of peripheral products of the film have also been greatly improved, driving the development of the entire entertainment industry chain. People walk out of a movie screening room at a cinema in Kunming, southwest China’s Yunnan Province, February 3, 2025. /Xinhua The success of the 2025 Spring Festival’s economic performance is not only reflected in its box office, but also creates a new benchmark for the economic value of China’s film industry. The film itself has become an important engine to promote the cultural tourism industry. The development of film-themed exhibitions, interactive experience zones and tourist attractions has further boosted the growth of the relevant regional economy. Moreover, the derivatives of movies have also become a new economic growth point. In particular, the classic scenes and characters in the film have become the source of cultural and creative products, providing fans and audiences with more diversified consumption choices. The deep integration of film with tourism and cultural industries can form a powerful industrial effect. In the future, cross-border cooperation in film and development of cultural products will become one of the important driving forces for the sustained growth of China’s cultural and entertainment industry. Although the Chinese film market has so far achieved historic results in 2025, this is not the end point and the future development is still full of challenges and opportunities. To achieve sustainable growth in the Chinese film market, it is necessary to focus on the originality and quality of content first. It’s also worth noting that China’s film industry should pay more attention to innovation from the perspective of cultural connotation and narrative depth and avoidance of the short-sighted behavior of “box office supremacy.” Furthermore, Chinese films should enhance international cooperation. In the process of “going global,” it’s necessary for the Chinese film industry to respect local culture and take into account the needs of the international market to create works with global appeal.
President Dissanayake Vows to Pursue Justice in Long-Standing Criminal Cases
Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to pursuing justice in long-standing criminal cases. Speaking on Sirasa TV’s Satana program, he emphasized that his government would not allow past crimes to be forgotten with the passage of time. The President detailed the institutional framework in place for investigations, citing the Criminal Investigations Department, the Attorney General’s Department, and the judiciary. He revealed that approximately 650 key detectives had been transferred and faced travel restrictions during Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s tenure. His administration is now working to reinstate these investigators and bring in new officers, though he acknowledged this process has been time-consuming. Regarding specific cases, Dissanayake addressed several high-profile investigations, including the 2009 assassination of journalist Lasantha Wickremetunge. While acknowledging the challenges of investigating a 16-year-old murder, he assured the public that the case would remain active. The President also discussed obstacles in other prominent cases. In the Thajudeen murder investigation, a significant setback occurred with the death of the Chief Judicial Medical Officer, a key witness. The Poddala Jayantha case faces similar challenges, with crucial medical documentation having disappeared. Despite these difficulties, Dissanayake reported progress in the Easter Sunday Terror Attacks investigation and expressed optimism about impending legal action in the Keith Noyahr assault case. Regarding the Wasim Thajudeen investigation, he noted ongoing complications, stating, “We are at a point where statements need to be recorded from several naval officers. However, missing documentation has made it difficult to even identify these officers.”
Pioneering Women-Led Hotel Opens in Sri Lanka
In a historic first for South Asia’s hospitality sector, Sri Lanka celebrated the inauguration of “Amba Yaalu,” the region’s first entirely female-operated tourist hotel, on January 10th. The innovative property marks a significant milestone in the nation’s commitment to women’s empowerment in the tourism industry. Nestled within a picturesque mango plantation featuring 457 TJC mango trees, the resort offers breathtaking views of the Kandalama Reservoir. The concept draws inspiration from the beloved novel ‘Amba Yaluwo’ (Mango Friends) and pays homage to Sri Lanka’s golden age of cinema, creating a unique cultural experience for guests. Developed by “Thema Collection,” the hotel’s opening ceremony drew distinguished guests including diplomatic representatives, government officials, and leading figures from the tourism sector. In a particularly meaningful gesture that bridged tradition with progress, two female Buddhist monks blessed the establishment and its all-women staff through a traditional Pirith ceremony, underlining the deep cultural significance of this pioneering venture. The hotel’s distinctive design pays creative homage to its literary namesake, the iconic Sinhala novel ‘Amba Yaaluwo’ by B. Ilangaratne, while celebrating Sri Lanka’s rich cinematic heritage. A fully restored vintage movie theater serves as a centerpiece of the property, complete with carefully curated displays of classic film posters, promotional banners, and antique camera equipment. The restaurant embraces this theatrical theme, designed to evoke the ambiance of a retro cinema hall, offering guests an immersive journey into Sri Lanka’s cultural past while enjoying contemporary hospitality excellence.
Richmond Castle: A Historic Architectural Marvel in Kalutara, Sri Lanka
Richmond Castle, located in Kalutara, Sri Lanka, stands as one of the most remarkable architectural treasures in the country. Built in 1896, this magnificent mansion was the brainchild of Mudaliyar Don Arthur de Silva Wijesinghe Siriwardena, a wealthy landowner and philanthropist who later came to be known as Padikara Mudali Mudaliyar Siriwardena. The castle’s design was inspired by an Indian Maharaja’s palace and was executed by renowned architects under the supervision of Holman, a British architect who brought European architectural elements to this South Asian masterpiece. Architectural Splendor and Historical Significance The two-story mansion spans over 42 acres of lush gardens and showcases an impressive blend of British, Dutch, and Indian architectural styles. The building features 99 doors and windows, intricate teak carvings, and imported materials from various parts of the world, including glass from Scotland, tiles from Italy, and ironwork from England. The craftsmanship of Richmond Castle reflects the opulence of colonial-era Sri Lanka and the vision of its original owner. The Mysterious Tales of Richmond Castle Over the years, Richmond Castle has gained notoriety for reported paranormal activities, leading to numerous ghost stories and supernatural encounters. Visitors and local residents have shared tales of unexplained phenomena within the castle grounds, adding an element of mystery to its historical significance. These stories of the Richmond Castle ghost have become deeply embedded in local folklore, attracting paranormal enthusiasts and curious visitors from around the world. Present Day Significance Today, Richmond Castle serves as both a historical monument and a tourist attraction in Kalutara, Sri Lanka. The site is maintained by the Public Trustee Department and is open to visitors who wish to explore its grand halls, beautiful gardens, and learn about its fascinating history. Despite stories of horror and supernatural occurrences, Richmond Castle remains an important cultural landmark that showcases the architectural and historical heritage of Sri Lanka. Visiting Richmond Castle Located approximately 40 kilometers south of Colombo, Richmond Castle is easily accessible from the Kalutara town. The castle offers guided tours that provide detailed information about its architecture, history, and the various stories associated with the property. Visitors can explore the mansion’s impressive interior, walk through its sprawling gardens, and learn about the life of Mudaliyar Siriwardena and the castle’s subsequent history. Whether you’re interested in colonial architecture, paranormal activities, or Sri Lankan history, Richmond Castle in Kalutara offers a unique blend of historical significance and mysterious allure that makes it a must-visit destination in Sri Lanka.
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake assured justice will be served to the victims of the Easter attack.
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake yesterday (06) assured that justice will be served to the victims of the Easter attack. He made this statement when meeting with the victims of the Easter attack. A discussion was held this morning at St. Sebastian’s Church in Katuwapitiya, Negombo, with family members of those injured and killed in the Easter Sunday bomb attack, led by His Eminence Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith and President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. Expressing his views, His Eminence Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith, the Archbishop of Colombo, said: “Since that day, we have tried our best to find out who did this through a transparent investigation. Because conclusions were drawn by the Presidential Commission, the Vijitha Malalgoda Committee, and the Parliamentary Select Committee. But all of them had accusations of neglecting responsibility. However, who did this, who provided the explosives, who organized it, who encouraged these people, who encouraged them to detonate it – they didn’t find anything about that… What we learned was… like an iceberg, we only see the top part, but there’s a big part underneath, that was concealed from us. For years, we made requests from various leaders, and finally, we even had to go to Geneva, to the Human Rights Committee. But we didn’t get any solution. We were helpless… The question that breaks their hearts is why did they do this to us? What did we do against them to do such a thing? That’s why we need an answer to that question, which is why we placed our trust in you this time.” President Anura Kumara Dissanayake also expressed his views: “More than five years have passed now. We will not allow such a tragedy to be buried in the sands of time and erased. I recently instructed the Secretary of Defense for Public Security that we should not conduct this investigation sitting on a pre-conclusion, collecting certificates to confirm that conclusion. I instructed to conduct a very clear investigation with a very open mind about what happened? Is there a hidden agenda behind this? There are several reasons. The first is that there is suspicion in society whether such an attack happened for a change in our country’s politics, which is being discussed in society. If hundreds of people in our country can be killed for a political goal, it’s a tragedy. So first of all, if our country’s politics is at such a destructive extreme, it should be revealed to society. Secondly, there is another discussion in society that if there is an attack or conspiracy against our country, there is suspicion that the state mechanism to prevent it is involved in these attacks. If the mechanism for the protection of the people of a country is working to break that protection, our country is always insecure. It’s insecure even now. If groups that should be prevented become partners in the attack, it’s an extremely dangerous situation. So, whether you look at it from that side or this side, we must necessarily reveal what happened. Thirdly, about 274 people died and a large number were injured. Justice must be done to the devotion within the victims regarding their relatives, their children, their spouses. Looking at it from that side too, we need to conduct this investigation fairly. On the other hand, I think the Easter Sunday attack polarized a significant portion of our society. A society was created that looks at each other with suspicion, distrust, hatred, and anger. Looking at it from that side too, justice must be done for this… I give you that assurance. Your expectation and my expectation are the same. First of all, we have built a governance. For the goals of the citizens of this country and my goals to be one. Therefore, the question of justice you expect will necessarily be resolved, and fulfilling justice is my expectation and hope too. We have already started it, we have already taken steps to launch these investigations very soon. If you have trust in us, we will ensure fairness and justice for you in this issue. An investigation, an experience is necessary in our country to prevent such a tragedy from happening again in our country. I assure you of that.”
The new Cabinet including the Prime Minister to be sworn in today…
The swearing-in of the new Cabinet including the Prime Minister is scheduled to take place today (24).Dr. Nihal Abeysinghe, Secretary General of the National People’s Power party, stated that MP Lakshman Nipunaarachchi, who was announced through a gazette, is also set to be sworn in as a new Cabinet Minister today.Accordingly, the new Cabinet will consist of 4 Ministers.Meanwhile, Dr. Nihal Abeysinghe, Secretary General of the National People’s Power party, said that new Ministry Secretaries will also be appointed today.
Winning Trust of All Citizens is My Duty – AKD
In his inaugural address as the 9th Executive President of Sri Lanka, Anura Kumara Dissanayake pledged to win the trust of those who did not vote for him, emphasizing his commitment to upholding democracy and fostering a positive political culture. “The cornerstone of democracy in Sri Lanka is the people’s mandate to elect a President. However, democracy does not end with the casting of votes and the election of a president. To truly strengthen democracy in our country, we must enhance our mechanisms and laws,” Dissanayake stated. He assured the people of Sri Lanka that he is fully committed to upholding democratic values throughout his tenure. Dissanayake highlighted the historical precedent of peaceful power transitions in Sri Lanka, expressing gratitude to former President Ranil Wickremesinghe for respecting the will of the people and setting a commendable example during the transfer of power. Acknowledging the challenges ahead, Dissanayake noted the widespread negative perception of politicians and politics in Sri Lanka. He committed to taking all necessary steps to restore the respect and trust of the people in their leaders and political system. “The deep-rooted crisis we face cannot be overcome by a single government, party, or individual alone. As I have mentioned before, I am not a magician; I am a common man born in this country. There are things I can do and things I cannot. There are things I know and things I do not. My primary task is to absorb talents, collate knowledge, and make better governance decisions,” he said, emphasizing the need for collective effort. Dissanayake called for the collective responsibility of all citizens to end the crisis, expecting support from everyone in fulfilling these responsibilities. He pledged to demonstrate his commitment through his actions and conduct, ensuring proper execution of his tasks to overcome the challenges. He also stressed the importance of international support, stating, “Regardless of geopolitical divisions, we aim to maintain beneficial relations with other countries. We are not a country that should be isolated; we should move forward with the world. We will never hesitate to take the necessary actions.” Dissanayake highlighted the crucial role of industries and businesses in nation-building efforts, expressing confidence in their support for the government. Dissanayake acknowledged the diverse nature of his victory and committed to winning the trust and support of those who did not vote for him. “I strongly believe I can fulfill this duty. In the future, you will witness and experience this, and I expect the people’s support,” he affirmed.