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US partners with SL to preserve historic Thuparama Image House in Polonnaruwa (Pics)

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The U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka, in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture and the Central Cultural Fund, today (17) launched a new conservation project to protect the ancient Thuparama Image House, a key site within the UNESCO World Heritage-listed ancient city of Polonnaruwa.

This initiative, funded by a $109,000 grant (over Rs. 32 million) from the U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP), reflects U.S. commitment to preserving Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage for future generations. The event was attended by U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung and Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs Prof. Hiniduma Sunil Senevi.
At Friday’s ceremony, Ambassador Chung emphasized, “The United States and Sri Lanka share a long history of partnership built on mutual respect and shared values. Together, we have worked on strengthening democratic institutions, promoting sustainable economic growth, and preserving cultural heritage, such as the Thuparama Image House. Through initiatives like the Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation, on behalf of the American people, we continue to help Sri Lanka protect its heritage, promote sustainable tourism, and attract global visitors to explore its historical and cultural richness.”  

Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious, and Cultural Affairs Prof. Hiniduma Sunil Senevi, who attended the ceremony, remarked, “The United States, through the Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation, once again demonstrates its commitment to preserving Sri Lanka’s cultural treasures. This collaboration strengthens our bond and reflects the U.S. dedication to preserving not only Sri Lanka’s heritage but also the connection between our nations.”

The Thuparama Image House, constructed in the 12th century as part of the Polonnaruwa Kingdom, is a monumental site with a distinctive vaulted brick roof and stunning stucco decorations. This historical gem has suffered damage over time due to environmental factors, and the preservation project aims to prevent further deterioration while raising awareness about its cultural and historical significance.

About the U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP): For over 23 years, the U.S. Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) has supported cultural preservation projects in more than 140 countries globally. In Sri Lanka, since 2001, the U.S. has collaborated with local archaeologists, historians, and faith communities on 17 significant cultural preservation initiatives, funded by $1.5 million from the American people. These projects include the conservation of the Rajagala Buddhist forest monastery, the preservation of collections at the Anuradhapura Archaeological Museum, and the restoration of the Batticaloa Dutch Fort. Most recently, the U.S. has supported the preservation of the Kandyan Kings’ Palace and Archaeology Museum, located within the Sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic complex. Beyond land-based efforts, the U.S. is also helping to protect the Godawaya shipwreck—the oldest known shipwreck in the Asia-Pacific region—off the coast of Hambantota.  

Cultural heritage stands as a powerful reminder of humanity’s shared history and contributions. Through its preservation efforts, the United States shows deep respect for diverse cultures around the world. From restoring ancient structures to conserving rare manuscripts, safeguarding vital archaeological sites, and documenting disappearing traditions, AFCP projects protect invaluable heritage. AFCP initiatives preserve history, strengthen civil society by fostering unity and dialogue, support good governance through transparency and accountability, and promote political and economic stability by generating jobs, income, and sustainable growth.

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Italian Naval Ship ANTONIO MARCEGLIA departs (Pics)

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The Italian Naval Ship ANTONIO MARCEGLIA which arrived in Sri Lanka on February 5th for replenishment, departed the island yesterday.

The Sri Lanka Navy bade customary farewell to the departing ship at the Port of Colombo, following naval traditions.

Upon leaving, ANTONIO MARCEGLIA engaged in a successful Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with SLNS Sayura.

Meanwhile, the Commanding Officer of the ship, Commander Alberto Bartolomeo called on the Commander Western Naval Area, Rear Admiral Chandima Silva at Western Naval Command Headquarters.

In addition, crew members of ANTONIO MARCEGLIA took time off to visit some tourist attractions in Colombo and Galle.

(navy.lk)

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Sri Lanka celebrates 77th National Independence Day (Pics)

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Sri Lanka celebrates the 77th National Independence Day today (Feb. 04).

The 77th National Independence Day celebration under the theme ‘Rallying for National Renaissance’ was held today at Independence Square in Colombo under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

This year, the government had announced several measures aimed at cutting costs while ensuring greater public participation.

Accordingly, only 1,873 Tri-Forces military personnel participated in the Independence Day celebrations in comparison to 3,384 who participated last year, reduced by 1,511 soldiers.

The Government had also decided not to use armoured vehicles of the Tri-Forces for this year.

Only 03 aircraft belonging to the Air Force were used this year, in contrast to the 19 aircraft used last year.

While the national flag is to be hoisted at state institutions from February 01 to 07, the Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government Ministry had decided to scrap electric light decorations at the institutions.

The Prisons Department stated that 285 prisoners will be released today to mark the 77th Independence Day under a special state pardon. Today will be an open day at the prisons for relatives to visit the inmates.

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Gangaramaya Temple facilitates religious activities during Chinese New Year (Pics)

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Special measures are in place at the Gangaramaya Temple in Colombo these days to mark the Chinese New Year.

Accordingly, since Jan. 28 until Feb 12, from 06.30 am – 11.00am and from 03.30pm – 10.30pm, the temple welcomes Chinese nationals in the country to make offerings and seek
religious blessings during the festive season.

Flowers, lights, candles, oil, fresh fruits can be offered to Lord Buddha according to Chinese traditional customs while dry rations and alms can be offered to the venerable monks.

(Pics : Shanika Jayasekara)

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