DD/24/136 Devinda Ashan

            Hard work is the key to achieving success in any field.It helps build determination and resilience.Hard work earns respect from others and oneself. It creates opportunities and unlocks potential.Without hard work, success is just a dream.                          Hard work is the secret to turning goals into reality.It builds character and grit.Hard work leads to personal growth and development.It's the bridge between dreams and achievements.                            Hard work is essential for overcoming obstacles.It increases productivity and efficiency.Hard work is a pathway to excellence.It fosters a sense of accomplishment and pride. Hard work is contagious and inspires others.Ultimately, hard work paves the way for success 😊.

  Christmas is a grand religious festival celebrated by Christians worldwide to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ. It is not limited solely to religious rituals but is a season filled with well-wishes, sharing peace, brotherhood, and selfless love with the entire world. The humble message of that birth in a manger in Bethlehem brings light to every heart through Christmas. As the Christmas season approaches, homes and cities are adorned with thousands of light bulbs and colorful decorations. The beautifully decorated Christmas tree, the shining Christmas star, and the nativity manger bring out the true spirit of Christmas. Santa Claus, whom children eagerly await, and the singing of Christmas carols add a unique vibrancy to this festival. The true meaning of Christmas lies in sharing joy with others. A special feature of this time is the Christmas feasts shared among family and friends, the exchange of gifts, and helping those in need. Christmas, where everyone rejoices as one ...

  Colombo is a vibrant city where ancient heritage and modernity blend seamlessly.  Comprising sky-touching modern buildings, busy commercial centers, and a beautiful coastline, this city is a cultural paradise where people of various ethnicities and religions coexist in harmony. Places like the Colombo Port and Galle Face Green perfectly showcase the city’s unique identity. Traces of Portuguese, Dutch, and English colonial eras can still be seen today through the old buildings in Colombo Fort and Pettah. Alongside this, through massive projects like the Lotus Tower and the Colombo Port City, Colombo is currently becoming one of the premier modern cities in South Asia.  With its delicious street food, vibrant nightlife, and refreshing parks, Colombo is a beautiful city open to everyone.

The rhythmic ‘taka-taka’ sound of kottu clashing from somewhere in the city, paired with its enticing aroma, is enough to awaken anyone’s hunger. The sight of a melting layer of cheese added over a steaming, perfectly spiced kottu is truly beyond words.  Cheese kottu is not just a meal; it is a delicious experience that dissolves the exhaustion of a long day. The true taste of a cheese kottu is best experienced when shared with friends or family. Gathering around a large platter of cheese kottu and engaging in pleasant conversation adds beautiful memories to life. I am always happy that my favorite food is cheese kottu because of the special charm and attraction hidden within its taste.

  A potential state of war between Iran and the United States could exert numerous direct and indirect influences on a country like Sri Lanka.  This impact can be analyzed primarily across three sectors: Economy and Rising Fuel Prices  As soon as a military crisis arises in the Middle East, crude oil prices in the global market rise rapidly. Since Sri Lanka relies entirely on imports for its fuel needs, this would directly lead to an increase in domestic fuel prices and electricity tariffs. Consequently, transportation costs and the prices of essential goods would rise, making it difficult to manage the country's inflation. Export Trade and the Tea Industry  Iran is one of the primary markets for Sri Lankan tea. If a war breaks out, the tea industry could suffer a major blow due to the blockage of export routes to Iran or the disruption of payment systems. Additionally, managing international relations while maintaining a neutral policy amidst global political pressu...

  Cyclone 'Dithwa', which affected Sri Lanka in late 2025, can be described as one of the most challenging and tragic natural disasters our country has faced in recent history. Having developed in the Bay of Bengal and turned violent within a very short period, this cyclone caused severe impacts across many parts of the island with strong winds and incessant rainfall. The most tragic aspect of this disaster was the loss of many precious human lives. The damage caused to the fishing communities along the northern and eastern coastal belts, as well as families living in low-lying areas, was immense. Thousands of houses were completely destroyed, and properties as well as farmlands that people had painstakingly built over many years were swallowed by the waters in an instant.

  Water can be identified as an essential factor for humans as well as for every living being. It is a precious resource that sustains life and supports the daily activities of mankind. Let’s look at a brief introduction to why water is so important to us. Water is the primary foundation of global food production. It plays a major role in agriculture, power generation, and the manufacturing processes of various industries. Especially in an agricultural country like Sri Lanka, the role of water in economic development and in making people's lives prosperous is immense. Water directly contributes to regulating the Earth's climate and maintaining the balance of ecosystems. Rivers, streams, and oceans maintain environmental coolness while providing habitats for many living species. Therefore, it is the responsibility of all of us to protect this limited resource from pollution for the sake of future generations.

One place almost everyone has visited, but I still haven't, is Sri Pada (Adam's Peak). That makes me a "Kodukaraya" . While some have climbed it four or five times, I haven't been even once. Since I haven't had the chance to go yet, I satisfy myself by looking at photos of Sri Pada. Many who have made the pilgrimage say that the sunrise from the summit is breathtakingly beautiful.  I am eagerly waiting to experience that for myself. Even though I am a bit lazy when it comes to mountain climbing, it doesn't matter. If I ever get the chance to go to Sri Pada, I will go without a second thought.

  If you ask someone what their favorite animal is, most would answer "dogs" or "cats." But my favorite is a bit different. No matter how much I love them, it makes me sad that I can't keep one as a pet at home. All this time, I’ve been talking about elephants! 😁 If there’s an elephant wherever I go, I definitely take a photo. Most of the time, I try to snap a picture with them. This is a photo of me with "Kataragama Wasana." 🌚 It’s not just Wasana; I’ve even taken a photo with a wild elephant. I can't quite remember his name, but he is a famous one who lives in Sithulpawwa. I would honestly love it if I could raise an elephant at home.

  Kasun Kalhara is my favorite male singer. He is not merely a vocalist but a visionary creator who added a fresh rhythm and depth to Sinhalese music. Possessing an exceptionally beautiful and powerful vocal range, he is adept at uniquely blending Western classical music with local traditions. Due to the soulful quality within his singing, he has a natural ability to captivate the hearts of his listeners. Through creations like "Harathi," "Radhika," and "Romantic Opera," he explored new dimensions within the Sri Lankan music industry. The complex musical compositions and profound lyrics found in his songs have earned him immense popularity among the younger generation. His music brings the listener closer to a unique collection of emotions regarding love, heartache, and life itself.

  Kanchana Anuradhi is my favorite singer. She is an artist gifted with an exceptionally melodious yet powerful vocal range. With a solid foundation in classical music, she is equally skilled at performing upbeat rhythmic tracks as well as deeply emotional soulful songs. Due to her unique singing style, she gained immense popularity among fans within a very short period. Starting her journey through social media and YouTube, she created a new wave in the Sri Lankan music industry through her creative "covers" of various songs. Her talent for breathing new life into old classics has drawn both the younger and older generations toward her. Her creative music videos and her simple yet captivating appearance have also contributed significantly to her popularity. Gifted not only in singing but also in playing instruments and music composition, she is a highly energetic performer on the live stage. Her original creations, such as "Nethata Ulelak," as well as her contribut...

  The entire world lights up on Vesak Full Moon Poya Day, commemorating the noble triple blessing of the birth, enlightenment, and passing away of Siddhartha Gautama Buddha. Devout Buddhists visit temples to engage in material offerings by offering flowers, lamps, and incense. The entire country transforms into a single glow of light with beautiful Vesak lanterns, pandols ( Thorana ), and lamps created in remembrance of the Buddha's virtues, bringing great wonder to the heart. Spiritual Practice and Inner Peace The most important aspect of the Vesak festival is the offering through practice ( Prathipaththi Pooja ). On this day, many people dress in white, observe the Eight Precepts ( Ashtanga Seela ), meditate, and listen to Dhamma sermons in search of spiritual healing. The essence of Buddhism, which brings peace of mind over worldly comforts, can be deeply experienced throughout society on this day. The primary goal is to act with a heart of loving-kindness while practicing self-...

  The New Year, which dawns with the transition of the Sun from the house of Pisces to Aries, is like a rebirth of nature. This beauty, brought to the villages by the song of the Koha (Asian Koel) and the blooming of Erabadu flowers, carries a message of prosperity and joy to the farming community who have finished their harvest. This is not merely a festival; it is a grand celebration of gratitude toward nature. The Value of Auspicious Times and Rituals The uniqueness of the New Year lies in everyone performing activities according to the same auspicious times ( Nakatha ). Observing every ritual—from lighting the hearth to partaking in meals—at the exact same moment as a whole nation provides a valuable example of harmony and discipline to society. The primary objective of overflowing the milk pot and eating at the auspicious time is to wish for future prosperity and abundance.

My school is the place that taught me everything about life. That is  Wimaladharma National School . From the day I left preschool and stepped into Grade 1, my school educated me with immense love. Today, if I stand as a scholar, it is all because of my "School Mother." I was a very mischievous child when I was little. However, it was my school that transformed me into the person I am today. I was not a student who went to extra tuition classes, even for the Scholarship Examination. To tell the truth, I even passed my Advanced Level exams without attending a single tuition class. This is how my school shaped me. I was like a raw gem handed over to the school by my parents, and my school polished me into a beautiful and valuable jewel. I will always love my school for adding such great value to my life.

  I am now a twenty-one-year-old young man, yet since the day I was born, I had never traveled beyond Helboda. It’s actually quite surprising—even though I live in Kandy, I had never stepped into the neighboring district... However, last year, I visited Nuwara Eliya for the very first time. This is a photo I took while I was there. Nuwara Eliya feels like a whole different country. It is even more beautiful than I had imagined. There is a completely different vibe there. Even though it was a bit chilly, it was amazing. On that day, I also visited the Seetha Amman Temple. Unfortunately, I couldn't make it to Gregory Lake, which is one of the most famous spots in Nuwara Eliya. If I visit again, I will definitely go there. Overall, Nuwara Eliya is a stunning city. It had exactly the kind of vibe that I love.

  This is about my traveling companion. There she is! Isn’t she beautiful? This is my very first vehicle. Shining like a white swan, she is one of the things I love most in my life. No matter where or when, she goes everywhere with me. She came into my life on the 10th of March last year. Since that day, every journey I’ve taken has been with her. I affectionately call her "Sudu" (Whitey/Darling). Even though you don’t have a beating heart, I love you for always being by my side like a living being. 🥰

1. The Kandyan dance is a traditional Sri Lankan dance form. 2. It's also known as the Kande Uda Ratha Natum. 3. This dance originated in the Kandyan kingdom. 4. It's a classical dance form, rich in history and culture. 5. The dance is known for its elegant movements and gestures. 6. Kandyan dance is often performed at cultural events. 7. The dancers wear elaborate costumes and headdresses. 8. The dance is accompanied by traditional music. 9. It's a major part of Sri Lanka's cultural heritage. 10. The dance tells stories through intricate movements. 11. Kandyan dance is a symbol of Sri Lankan identity. 12. It's performed by both men and women. 13. The dance requires great skill and precision. 14. Kandyan dance is a popular tourist attraction. 15. It's a way to preserve Sri Lanka's cultural traditions. 16. The dance is often performed at festivals. 17. Kandyan dance is a source of national pride. 18. It's a beautiful expression of Sri Lankan art. 19. The ...

  Kandy, encircled by a ring of mountains and draped in a veil of mist, is not merely a city; it is a feeling close to the soul. The rhythmic sound of the   Hevisi   drums from the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, blending with the cool breeze of the hill country, brings an indescribable sense of tranquility to the mind. The pride of the royal era and the beauty of ancient architecture still live on through the streets of Kandy, constantly captivating my heart. The serenity felt while walking along the Kandy Lake circular road and the floral splendor of the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens are the true blessings of nature within the city. When the city lights up during the  Esala Perahera  festival, it becomes a mirror reflecting the Sri Lankan identity to the entire world. This environment, intertwined with the flowing rhythm of the Mahaweli River, is a magnificent masterpiece of nature that goes far beyond being just a city. The friendliness and hospitality of th...