Australia is a place that takes you to the days gone by. This lies in Sri-Lanka’s colonial past, when it was ruled by the western powers, the British being the last to leave. Australia is a country reminiscent of the Victorian era. One would find heritage buildings as those of Sri Lanka, and familiar road names, similar in both places.
Elegant mansions of British days are found here too. The most unforgettable experience for me is seeing the contribution made towards the upkeep of Sri Lankan culture by the Lankans domiciled in Australia.
At a time that there is an urgent need for the preservation of the treasures of our culture in our own land, the contributions made by the Sri Lankans in Australia is a praiseworthy attempt.
Aesthetic values
Sri Lankans domiciled here make their contribution in the upkeep and forward march of traditional and cultural values retained in their motherland. Apart from celebrating and commemorating national events, some make a positive contribution in their efforts to revive the culture back at home.
When you consider the service rendered by the media, widely read Sinhala newspapers such as, Pahana, Sannasa, Sihanada, Serendib etc. being given free of charge, you feel as if life in Aussie land is not very much different from that of Sri Lanka.
Thanks to the creative writers, the articles displayed are mostly based on Sri Lankan social, traditional and cultural values, past and present, creating a distinct Lankan identity.
Sri Lanka’s most entertaining industry, teledrama and music has indeed made an impression here.
Those who have excelled in their respective aesthetic fields in music and drama are privileged to be invited to participate in shows which the Lankans here enjoy. At this point you are reminded of the sweet melodies at home.
They talk fondly of teachers who conduct classes centered on aesthetic values. In order to preserve Sri Lankan tradition, rich in cultural heritage, oriental dancing, music and art classes are held in various places for the younger generation.
Most of them are selected and trained to take part in national programs, especially, the Morning Show, which often begins with songs of our talented veteran music experts, and is a show par excellence.
They also work tirelessly to promote Lankan culture in the electronic media, producing a remarkable series of programs for the talented, who are born and bred here.
National events
What a dream come true for Sri Lankans domiciled here when festival and national events are celebrated! The New Year festivals organized by the Ceylon German Technical Training Institute Old Boys’ Association at the Dandenong show grounds, and the “Suriya Udanaya” Bakmaha Ulela held at Craigieburn recently, was attended by large crowds, mostly Sri Lankans, not only the Sinhalese but others as well. It was an outstanding example.
The magnificent Sri Lankan New Year games proudly presented by them were the biggest attraction that made the event special.
These are ‘must watch’ events for those interested in cultural history and traditions of Sri Lanka. Recently, a musical show held to commemorate the death anniversary of veteran musician, Clarence Wijewardena conducted by Daya Silva in Melbourne, made you feel at home.
Their commitment to keep up Lankan tradition should be appreciated. In some functions the day’s proceedings end with Namo Namo Matha which makes you feel you are at home, and a Sri Lankan Down Under.
Sri Lankan identity
The entry of Sri Lankan stuff to the market, especially meant for Lankans, but enjoyed by the multi-cultural community, including the Aussies is amazing. “Made in Sri Lanka” is one of the main attractions that make them prosper in their business.
Various items seen mainly in Sri Lankan shops is a direct reflection of the usual menu over there. Delicacies like lunumiris, pickles, polos curry, brinjal moju and fish ambul-thiyal remind you of the old fashioned kitchen back home.
These shops are a good advertisement for Lankan products. This is an encouragement to the national industry. Their well-deserved success I feel is due to the fast growing awareness and the admirable regard they have for Lankan products.
That it encourages exports from Sri Lanka is no secret. Different varieties of tea is an outstanding example. They attribute their success to the support of fellow Lankans in each suburb.
Another attraction purely Lankan is that you can sit down to fine dining at many of the Sri Lankan restaurants in Melbourne, venues much sought after for mouth-watering, delicious meals.
Batik is another unique item which reflects Sri Lankan creativity of hand crafted creations such as, wall hangings, cushion covers and bold modern designs on blouses, shirts and kaftans, worn by elderly ladies of both communities, Sinhala and Tamil.
It asserts a distinct Sri Lankan identity and has a high demand. Leather products, including locally produced and picturesque things made out of cane and straw are among the many trade items exported from Sri Lanka.
Religious outlook
Temples are the most important places that play a vital role in preserving cultural heritage, where the doctrine is clearly unfolded touching life at all points. The Hindu Kovil is yet another place, especially meant for our Tamil brethren who venerate Hindu Gods.
The service rendered by the Sangha towards the upkeep of national heritage and culture is too wide a subject to be dealt with here, which I hope to pen in a subsequent article.
May Sri Lanka be a centre of Peace, Harmony and Prosperity.
Rupa Banduwardena