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In Sri Lanka Buddhism is often associated with the Sinhalese and the ancient capitals of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa and Kandy. There is no doubt that the Sinhala speaking people in general and many erudite monks in particular have largely been responsible for the preservation and growth of Buddhism in Sri Lanka for over two millennia. Historically however Buddhism also had a significant presence in South India and Northern Sri Lanka. Literary and archaeological evidence from South India and the J

In the gently sunlit plains south of Batticaloa, where plantations and paddy fields meet the sea breeze, we found ourselves on the dusty road toward Kirankulam. It was a drive of about thirty minutes — through the bustling lanes of Kattankudy, past roadside stalls and temple bells — before the noise faded into rural serenity. And there, seemingly out of nowhere, rose the Sanjeevani Hospital. As we pulled up to the entrance, one sign caught our eye: “All patients are seen free of charge.” Opposi

Former allies from the now-defunct Tamil National Alliance (TNA) have resumed discussions on forming a united political front, raising the possibility of a reconstituted alliance ahead of the next electoral contest. The Ilankai Tamil Arasu Kachchi (ITAK), the TNA's principal constituent, and the Democratic Tamil National Alliance (DTNA)—a coalition of parties that broke away from the TNA—held talks at ITAK's Martin Road office in Jaffna last week to explore coordination on key political issues.