Madhuranga Bandara

  As I reflect on my fifteen years immersed in the world of art, I'm eager to share an unforgettable memory that remains vividly etched in my heart. Having studied the fundamentals of the Kandyan dance tradition, along with various other dance forms like Sokari, Hath Adi, Hackma, and Shanthikarma, the precious moment when I wore the sacred Ves crown at the age of 14, guided by my teacher Bappa, stands as an eternal memory in my life. Over time, I've had the opportunity to contribute to numerous Ves Mangalyas through dance and singing. However, the Ves Mangalya organized by Bappa for the children of the Helabodu Thuruliyamal Kalayathanaya in Pussallavinna holds a special place in my memory. This ceremony, conducted with traditional rituals on June 20, 2024, was executed with exceptional vibrancy. We personally handled all the preparations, including setting up the 'aila' and decorations. On the night of June 19th, the 'Hangala Pe Kirima' rituals took place. That ...

  My first teacher, a unique and unforgettable figure in my life, was named Karunaratne, my beloved grandfather. He possessed profound knowledge and unparalleled artistic talent, earning numerous awards and honors throughout his artistic career, including the prestigious Kalabhushana State Award. I feel both joy and sorrow. The joy stems from having had the opportunity to learn this noble art from him. The sorrow comes from his passing on March 4th, 2025. He departed, leaving behind a legacy of immense service to the arts, having nurtured many talented artists and touching the hearts of countless people. He was a Bali exorcist, a traditional master of the Noonumura Mangalya, a skilled Hēvisi drummer, and proficient in folk dramas like Hath Adiya and Sokari. Moreover, he was a Gurunnanse, a spiritual healer, who cured many who were near death, making him seem like a divine being. Our relationship was very close, and I loved him dearly. His passing was an unbearable loss for me. His ...

Reflections on My Beautiful School Days: A Journey of Unforgettable Memories School days are often remembered as some of the best times in one’s life, and for me, the memories of my time at B/Orubediwewa Divithika School are truly precious. It wasn’t just the lessons I learned in the classroom, but the experiences, friendships, and milestones that shaped me during those years. The beauty of the school’s surroundings made it all the more special, but it was the moments and people within that environment that really made my school life unforgettable. One particular memory that stands out as the most beautiful of all was the day I received the Head Prefect’s badge. That day, forever etched in my heart, was truly a moment of pride and joy. The ceremony where we were awarded our prefect badges was conducted with great splendor. The entire event felt like a celebration, and as my badge was pinned on me, my heart swelled with happiness. It was a moment I had worked hard for, and I felt honore...

  Among the countless animals in the animal kingdom, the deer holds a special place in my heart. Their innocent gaze, beautiful appearance, and silent movements evoke a unique feeling within me. Especially when I see a fawn’s innocent eyes, I forget all the worries of the world and immerse myself in their beauty. The deer’s smooth fur-covered body, elegant antlers, and captivating eyes create a wonderful attraction within me. Their silent movements, the way they wander through the forest, and their respect for the environment teach me so much. The Deer - A Symbol of Innocence I see the deer as a symbol of innocence and silent beauty. Their calm nature and respect for the surrounding environment are an example for us as well. When I see a deer, I feel like wandering freely with them in the forest. My Memories of the Deer When I was a child, I was fortunate enough to see a deer family on a trip to a forest. Their innocent gaze and silent movements remain a permanent memory in my hear...

The indigenous people of Sri Lanka, also known as the Veddas, are considered the original inhabitants of Sri Lanka. Their lifestyle, culture, and language are unique, differing from those of other ethnic groups in Sri Lanka. Lifestyle:  * Traditionally, the Veddas lead a lifestyle dependent on hunting, gathering honey, and foraging for food from wildlife.  * They live in small groups within the forests, maintaining a close connection with nature.  * Their dwellings are typically simple huts made from natural materials. Culture:  * Vedda culture comprises their religious beliefs, rituals, and artistic expressions.  * They respect natural forces and ancestors, and specific rituals form an important part of their lives.  * Dances, songs, and storytelling are significant aspects of their culture. Language:  * The Vedda language is distinct from other languages in Sri Lanka, believed to have connections to Sinhala and Tamil.  * However, today, many Ved...

  Mahiyanganaya: My Beautiful Village Where History and Nature Intertwine Mahiyanganaya is a beautiful city that forever resides in my heart. Mahiyanganaya is also my hometown. Its uniqueness begins with the Mahiyanganaya Rajamaha Viharaya, where Lord Buddha's first visit to Sri Lanka took place. The serenity and sanctity there bring a unique sense of joy to the mind. The ancient stupa and the Bodhi tree in the temple captivate the eyes and hearts of thousands of devotees. Next, Sorabora Lake, with its beauty and history, is astonishing. This lake, which demonstrates the excellence of ancient engineering, is surrounded by mountainous landscapes and green forests. The water of Sorabora Lake is cool and refreshing. Mahiyanganaya is also known as Mihigupura. Surrounded by ancient villages and green fields, the hospitality and simple life of the people of Mahiyanganaya add a unique charm to the city. The Hidden Beauty of Mahiyanganaya:  * Dambana Indigenous Village: Tourists visit...

  Pearl of the Indian Ocean: The Beauty of Sri Lanka Sri Lanka, a small island nation nestled in the Indian Ocean, boasts a beauty that transcends its size. With diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm, welcoming people, Sri Lanka offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler. Golden Beaches and Azure Seas Destinations like Mirissa, Unawatuna, and Arugam Bay are renowned as some of the world's most stunning beaches. The allure of golden sands meeting the vibrant blue of the ocean is simply captivating. Here, you can indulge in activities like snorkeling, surfing, or simply relax under the sun. Lush Green Highlands and Scenic Views The cool climes of Nuwara Eliya, Ella, and Adam's Peak provide breathtaking panoramic views. Verdant tea plantations, cascading waterfalls, and mist-covered mountains create a haven for nature enthusiasts. Biodiversity and Wildlife Encounters National parks like Yala, Wilpattu, and Udawalawe teem with wildlife. Home to elephants, ...

Sigiriya: The Magnificent Tale of the Sky-Kissing Rock Fortress Nestled in the Matale District of Sri Lanka's Central Province, Sigiriya stands as a breathtakingly beautiful destination, captivating the hearts of travelers. This fortress, perched atop a colossal rock formation approximately 180 meters (600 feet) high, was built by King Kasyapa in the 5th century. Sigiriya is a marvel that leaves anyone who visits in awe. The Marvelous Creations of Sigiriya:  * Sigiriya Frescoes: The frescoes of Sigiriya are a sight to behold, enchanting all who witness them. The vibrancy of the colors, which remains remarkably intact even today, is truly astonishing.  * The Mirror Wall: Another attraction that draws visitors is the Mirror Wall. This surface is covered with verses inscribed by those who visited Sigiriya centuries ago.  * Sigiriya Gardens: The Sigiriya Gardens are considered one of the oldest landscaped gardens in Asia.  * Sigiriya Fortress: King Kasya pa built this fo...

  "Sooriya Arana": A Timeless Gem of Sri Lankan Cinema "Sooriya Arana" stands as an unforgettable masterpiece in the realm of Sri Lankan cinema. The sheer brilliance of Jackson Anthony's performance elevates this film to an extraordinary level. "Sooriya Arana": An Enduring Mark on Sri Lankan Film History This film, released in 2004, directed by Sunil Ariyaratne and scripted by Somawira Senanayake, has etched an indelible mark on the hearts of cinema enthusiasts. It's a truly remarkable creation. A Narrative of Profound Connection "Sooriya Arana" sensitively portrays the deep bond between nature and humanity. The film beautifully captures the innocence of childhood, the delicate sensibilities towards the natural world, and the serene beauty of village life. These elements form the core themes of this cinematic gem. Jackson Anthony's Stellar Performance Jackson Anthony's exceptional acting plays a pivotal role in the film's succ...

  Volleyball is my favorite sport because it is fast, fun, and all about teamwork. Played with two teams of six players each, the goal is to hit the ball over a net and score points by making the ball land in the opponent’s side of the court. What I enjoy most about volleyball is the teamwork it requires. Every player has a role to play, whether it's serving, passing, setting, or spiking. The game relies on communication and cooperation, which makes it exciting to be part of a team. I love how every point feels like a small victory, especially when the team works together to score. Volleyball is also a great way to stay active. It improves fitness, strength, and coordination. The fast pace of the game helps with reflexes, and the constant movement keeps me engaged throughout the match. Whether it's a friendly game with friends or a competitive match, volleyball is always a fun challenge. For me, volleyball isn’t just a sport,it’s a way to connect with others, stay healthy, and ...

  Chamara Weerasinghe is, without a doubt, one of my favorite Sri Lankan singers. His unique voice and emotional depth in his songs have always stood out to me. Whether it's an energetic track or a soulful ballad, Chamara has the ability to capture the essence of the moment, making each song feel personal. What I love most about his music is how relatable the lyrics are. His songs, like “Sithin Witharak”and “Rosa Pethi Athurala”,speak directly to the heart, touching on themes of love, longing, and life’s ups and downs. There's something about his voice that makes you feel connected to the music, as though he's singing directly to you. Chamara's live performances are equally impressive. He knows how to engage his audience and create an unforgettable experience. It’s his authenticity and raw emotion that make him stand out in the Sri Lankan music scene. For me, Chamara Weerasinghe isn’t just a singer; he’s an artist who truly understands the power of music to connect peop...

Among the beautiful plants in my garden, the Na sapling holds a special place. The lovely green hue of its young leaves fills my heart with great joy. The Na tree, considered the national tree of Sri Lanka, greatly benefits our culture and environment.  * Appearance:    * The Na tree grows into a large tree, reaching about 30 meters in height.    * It has branches full of rounded leaves.    * The Na flowers are white and fragrant.    * The Na fruits are brown and contain 1-4 seeds.  * Importance :    * The Na tree is a valuable timber tree.    * Na flowers are used by Buddhists for offerings.    * Na seeds and bark are used as medicine in Ayurvedic medicine.    * The wood of the Na tree is very strong.  * Environment:    * The Na tree grows in wet and dry zones.    * It is a slow-growing tree.    * This tree grows well in shady places.  * Cultural Significanc...

My most beautiful trip was the Katharagama trip I took with my family in 2024. That was the most wonderful day of my life. We left for Katharagama around 3:00 PM that day, passing through Mahiyanganaya town. We arrived in Katharagama around 6:00 PM. That day, we watched the Katharagama procession, offered pooja at the Katharagama Devalaya the next day, worshiped at Kiri Vehera, and also went to Sella Katharagama. Afterwards, we went to Wedihiti Kanda and spent a very happy time. All my family members, including my grandfather, grandmother, mother, father, younger sister, younger brother, uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, and their children, joined this trip. We spent a lot of time in Kirinda that day. It was one of the happiest few hours of my life. That night, the Katharagama procession was held in a very grand manner. Many singing, instrumental, and dancing groups were seen. Elephants were also decorated in various colors. Among them, Katharagama Vasana the elephant walked in the Katha...

  On December 11, 2024, Ms. Abeyshika delivered an inspiring lecture to first-year university students, sharing her personal life story to emphasize the importance of learning English. To engage the students, she also showed a short video clip.  Ms. Abeyshika highlighted that English is one of the most widely spoken languages around the world and plays a crucial role in global communication. She offered valuable insights on how students can develop a strong desire to learn English and make the learning process easier.  According to Ms. Abeyshika, mastering English becomes more achievable by consistently practicing key activities such as reading, writing, speaking, and listening on a daily basis. By incorporating these habits into their routine, students can improve their language skills and enhance their ability to communicate effectively .

  Hello , my name is Madhuranga Bandara Herath, and I am 21 years old. I am currently a student at the University of the Visual and Performing Arts. I live in Mahiyanganaya with my family, which includes one brother and one sister. My father is a farmer, and my mother is a housewife. I am very close to my family and cherish our time together . In my free time, I enjoy traveling. My favorite subject is dancing, and I am passionate about it. I also love playing volleyball and stay active with it. I pride myself on being punctual, disciplined, and hardworking. I maintain a healthy lifestyle, and my favorite fruit is mangoes.  I have a pet dog named Dora, who is a joy to have around. While I have many friends, Ashan is my best friend. In the future, I aspire to become a dance teacher and share my passion with others.                                               ...