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Commemorating the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Lord Buddha

May 5, 2025

Vesak is the most important Buddhist festival in Sri Lanka, commemorating the birth, enlightenment, and passing away (Parinirvana) of Lord Buddha. Streets and temples come alive with colorful lanterns (Vesak koodu), intricate pandals depicting Jataka tales, and devotional songs. The glowing lights symbolize the Buddha’s wisdom dispelling the darkness of ignorance.

A unique aspect of Vesak in Sri Lanka is the tradition of dansal — free food and drink stalls set up by devotees as acts of generosity (dāna). Visitors can enjoy everything from rice and curry to ice cream, tea, and cool drinks, served to anyone regardless of religion or background.

Many Buddhists also observe sil (a day of moral precepts) and engage in bhāvanā (meditation), dedicating the day to spiritual practice and compassion. Vesak is therefore a celebration that blends joy, community service, and deep reflection, making it both a festive and sacred occasion.

Sun Salute (Surya Namaskar) - 2: Upward Salute

April 5, 2025

Upward Salute (Urdhva Hastasana) is the second pose in the Sun Salutation sequence. From the Prayer Pose, you inhale deeply, sweep your arms out to the sides and up overhead, and gently arch your back while lifting your gaze.

This movement opens the chest, lengthens the spine, and engages the core, encouraging a full, energizing breath.

The pose helps improve posture, stretch the shoulders and sides of the body, and awaken the mind for the practice ahead. By reaching upward and creating space between the vertebrae, it also relieves tension in the back and prepares the body for deeper forward folds and strength-building poses that follow in the Sun Salutation.

Maha Shivaratri - February through March

March 5, 2025

Maha Shivaratri, the “Great Night of Shiva,” is one of Hinduism’s most sacred festivals, celebrated on the 14th night of the dark fortnight in February–March. In Sri Lanka, temples glow with oil lamps and incense, as devotees gather in deep devotion to honor Lord Shiva.

The night is observed with fasting, prayers, and continuous chanting, while offerings of bilva leaves, milk, and flowers are made to the Shiva Lingam. It is believed that worship on this night brings spiritual cleansing and divine blessings.

Beyond ritual, Maha Shivaratri is a time for reflection and inner peace — a night when the faithful remember Shiva’s cosmic dance and seek harmony in their own lives.

National Day in Sri Lanka - February 4th

February 5, 2025

On February 4, 1948, Sri Lanka — then Ceylon — took its first steps as a free nation, ending over 400 years of colonial rule under Portuguese, Dutch, and British powers. The road to independence was shaped by decades of political reforms, negotiations, and the unwavering efforts of leaders such as D.S. Senanayake, who championed peaceful dialogue over armed conflict. This patient, determined struggle earned the nation its sovereignty without bloodshed, marking a unique chapter in South Asia’s freedom movements.

In the days leading up to Independence Day, streets acros s the island come alive with preparation. The national flag flutters proudly on buildings, schools rehearse cultural performances, and soldiers prepare for the ceremonial parades. Colombo becomes the focal point of celebrations, with the grand flag-hoisting ceremony, the President’s address to the nation, and the vibrant display of military and cultural heritage. For many, it is a time to reflect on the sacrifices and vision that built the foundation for the country’s democratic future.

Yet, beyond the official ceremonies, the heart of Independence Day lies in the people’s pride. On this day, even the smallest hands — like those of a little girl waving her flag in the morning breeze — carry the weight of history and the hope for tomorrow. Her smile is a reminder that independence is not just a memory of the past, but a living promise to safeguard unity, peace, and the rich heritage of Sri Lanka for generations to come.

The Season of Flamingos - September through March

January 5, 2025

The annual migration of Flamingos and other migratory birds to Sri Lanka is a remarkable natural spectacle that transforms the island's landscape. A large flocks of birds undertake an epic journey from Europe and northern Asia to tropical sanctuary of Sri Lanka.

Mannar Island serves as the gateway for these avian visitors.From this entry point, the birds disperse across the country, finding refuge in Sri Lanka's diverse network of national parks and wetlands. The birds exhibit fascinating behavioral patterns during their stay. While some species establish a daily commuting routine between feeding and roosting sites, others settle in specific locations across the island for the entire season. These temporary residents spend their time feeding, resting, and preparing for their eventual return journey. '

As April approaches, an equally impressive phenomenon occurs. The scattered birds begin to regroup, gathering in large numbers as they prepare for their long journey back to their breeding grounds in the northern hemisphere.

Sun Salute (Surya Namaskar) - 1: Prayer Pose

December 5, 2024

Prayer Pose - Pranamasana: Stand tall, palms together at your chest, and focus on your breath.

Benifits of the pose: 1. Improves Posture: Encourages proper alignment of the body and a straight spine. 2. Promotes Relaxation: Helps calm the mind and reduces stress levels. 3. Enhances Focus: Encourages mindfulness and concentration. 4. Balances Energy: Aligns and centers the body's energy flow. 5. Strengthens the Feet and Legs: Builds stability and strength in the lower body. 6. Boosts Self-Awareness: Promotes a connection between body, mind, and spirit. 7. Prepares for Meditation: Acts as a grounding posture to start your practice.

Exploring Sun Salute (Surya Namaskar)

November 5, 2024

The 7-step Sun Salutation, or Surya Namaskar, is a simplified yoga sequence designed to energize the body and focus the mind. It involves a flowing series of movements synchronized with breath. 1. Prayer Pose (Pranamasana): Stand tall, palms together at your chest, and focus on your breath. 2. Upward Salute (Urdhva Hastasana): Stretch your arms overhead, arching back slightly. 3. Forward Fold (Uttanasana): Bend forward, touching your toes. 4. Plank Pose (Phalakasana): Step back, aligning your body in a straight line. 5. Eight-Limbed Pose (Ashtanga Namaskara): Lower knees, chest, and chin to the floor. 6. Cobra Pose (Bhujangasana): Lift your chest, keeping elbows bent. 7. Downward Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana): Raise hips, forming an inverted V-shape. Repeat in reverse to complete one round. Each step stretches and strengthens the body, improving flexibility and mindfulness.

The Origin of Yoga

October 5, 2024

Yoga originated in India several thousand years ago. It was developed as a system to unite the mind, body, and spirit, with its name "Yoga" derived from the Sanskrit word "Yu", meaning to unite or join. Traditionally, yoga was not just physical postures (asana), but a comprehensive system involving ethical guidelines, meditation, and breath control to achieve. Spiritual enlightenment and inner peace. Overtime, yoga has evolved and spread globally, becoming an integral part of many people's lives for mental and physical well-being. spiritual enlightenment and inner peace. Over time, yoga has evolved and spread globally, becoming an integral part of many people's lives for mental and physical well- being. Different styles are emerging, such as Hatha, Vinyasa, and Ashtanga yoga, which serve people with varying levels of fitness and needs. The physical benefits of yoga include improved flexibility, strength, and balance, while its mental benefits encompass reducing stress and anxiety, enhancing focus, and promoting emotional resilience.