A blossoming beauty: Sakura flowers grace Uva Wellassa University | Sunday Observer

A blossoming beauty: Sakura flowers grace Uva Wellassa University

23 July, 2023

Nature has a remarkable way of captivating our hearts and enchanting Sakura flowers have found their second home at the Uva Wellassa University. Thanks to the efforts of Prof. Ananda Kumara and a collaborative project with the Meijo University and the Cherry Blossom Association of Japan and the District Secretariat of Badulla, these delicate Japanese Cherry blossoms have adorned the picturesque grounds of Badulla. Sakura blossoms signify a successful journey of cross-cultural collaboration and are a testament to the harmonious blend of climatic conditions.

Prof. Ananda Kumara spearheaded the planting of Sakura trees for the first time in Sri Lanka in 2018. Ten Sakura plants were imported from Japan under a special tourism development project. The Uva Wellassa University and its partners meticulously selected seven climatic and topographical conditions within the Uva Province as testing grounds for the pilot project.

After years of nurturing and meticulous research by Dr. Evon Kaliyadasa of the Uva Wellassa University, the long-awaited moment arrived – the Sakura flowers at the Uva Wellassa University bloomed in a breathtaking display of colour and beauty. The event signifies that the climate in Badulla is suited to meet the requirements of Sakura trees. It is a testament to the dedication and commitment of the project coordinators, Prof. Ananda Kumara and Dr. P. H. T. Kumara, who bridged the distance between Japan and Sri Lanka to bring this captivating vision to life.

With the blossoming of Sakura at the Uva Wellassa University, the project’s success paves the way for future expansion.

The plan is to upscale the initiative by planting 1,000 Sakura trees in Badulla, creating a captivating “Sakura Path.” This new tourism development avenue will attract visitors from far and wide, offering them a unique and memorable experience amid the blooming Sakura petals. A journey along the Sakura Path will weave through a tapestry of delicate flowers, symbolising beauty, grace and the eternal cycle of life.

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