Publications
A GIS-MCDA Based Evaluation of the Quality of Life Variations in Anuradhapura Municipal Council: A Policy Implication Road Map for Human Well-being
A significant spatial disparity in quality of life (QoL) within Anuradhapura Municipal Council was identified, with only 10.6% of the area classified as having the highest QoL, primarily concentrated in the city center and northern regions. This study, utilizing a GIS-MCDA framework combined with AHP for criteria weighting, revealed that essential socio-economic resources are heavily centralized, leaving 39.7% and 10.4% of areas in low and least QoL categories, respectively. The analysis further showed that the highest QoL zone extends only 1.5 km from the city center, covering just 20% of the land area. These findings provide a critical roadmap for policy-makers to redistribute resources and foster balanced regional development, addressing human well-being disparities in Anuradhapura.
A Virtual Reality Immersive Experience of Sri Lanka's Sacred Heritage: VR Meditation Experience at the Ruwanweli Maha Seya using Heart Rate and HRV Tracking
A five-minute VR meditation session at Sri Lanka's Ruwanweli Maha Seya, part of the UNESCO-listed Sacred City of Anuradhapura, demonstrated measurable physiological benefits: a 5.4 BPM decrease in average heart rate and a 10-point increase in heart rate variability (HRV). This suggests that immersive VR environments can replicate the stress-reducing effects of traditional meditation at sacred sites, regardless of physical location. The study used a Unity-based application to simulate four Atamasthana sites, tracking real-time physiological responses via heart rate and HRV monitoring. Findings highlight the potential of VR to bridge cultural preservation with digital wellness, offering scalable solutions for mental relaxation while advancing research on both religious heritage and biometric feedback in meditation practices.
Heritage and decoloniality: Reflections from Sri Lanka—A conversation
A three-way conversation between Hasini Haputhanthri, Gill Juleff, and Thamotharampillai Sanathanan explores the intersections of heritage and decoloniality in Sri Lanka, highlighting how colonialism and nationalism have shaped perceptions of heritage. The discussion reveals that state-authorized narratives, particularly those centered on Buddhist archaeological sites like Anuradhapura, have marginalized minority communities and silenced diverse historical perspectives. It also examines the ongoing impact of colonial legacies, including the destruction of cultural heritage during the civil war and the current discourse around Chinese influence, which mirrors historical patterns of colonization. The conversation underscores the need for a more inclusive and critical approach to heritage that challenges dominant narratives and centers marginalized voices.
Comprehending genius loci, towards spiritual sustainability: lessons from Buddhist heritage city Anuradhapura
Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka's UNESCO World Heritage Site, embodies 'spiritual sustainability' by integrating natural elements, topography, built structures, and human activities. This study reveals that the city's spiritual orientation, rooted in Buddhist concepts, sustains a dynamic equilibrium between physical and non-physical dimensions, offering deeper insights into heritage value and sustainable development. The research employs an interdisciplinary approach, combining contextual and generalized concepts to explore the 'genius loci'—the unique spirit of place—and its role in shaping cultural and religious views across history.
Concentration and Distribution of Toxic and Essential Elements in Traditional Rice Varieties of Sri Lanka Grown on an Anuradhapura District Farm
Traditional Sri Lankan rice varieties, often favored for their perceived health benefits, exhibit significant variability in cadmium concentrations, with one store-bought sample (Suwadel) containing potentially unsafe levels (113±13 μg kg−1). Elemental imaging revealed that lead is primarily stored in the rice bran, which is removed during polishing, while cadmium is distributed in the edible portion of the grain. Essential elements were generally higher in traditional varieties compared to non-traditional ones, suggesting a potential nutritional advantage for nutrient-deficient communities. However, selenium levels were too low to meet minimum recommended intake, despite its protective role in kidney health. This study provides a one-time cross-sectional dataset on elemental concentrations in eleven rice samples from Anuradhapura district, a hotspot for chronic kidney disease of unknown etiology (CKDu), using methods that could be applied to more comprehensive research under controlled conditions.
Distribution of Phlebotomus argentipes Annandale & Brunetti, 1908 in the Anuradhapura district, North Central Sri Lanka
A study on the distribution of Phlebotomus argentipes in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, revealed that its abundance is strongly influenced by temperature and humidity. The sandfly, a potential vector for cutaneous leishmaniasis, thrives at mean temperatures of 24.7–27.3°C and high humidity levels (72–88%). Key microhabitats included shrubs, uncultivated areas, gardening zones, wet soil with leaf litter, and termite hills. Using CDC light traps and yellow sticky traps over 12 months, researchers analyzed environmental factors to predict temporal variations in vector populations. Regression analysis showed significant correlations (P = 0.00), with temperature explaining 68% of abundance variability and humidity 91.6%. These findings could inform targeted vector management strategies by leveraging ecological behavior patterns.
Spatializing Nationalism and Religion: The Production of Sinhala-Buddhist Imagination and the Centrality of Anuradhapura
Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka's ancient and revered Buddhist city, emerged as the focal point of Sinhala-Buddhist identity at the turn of the 20th century. This transformation was driven by local leaders who resisted colonial attempts to archeologize and museumize the site while asserting its centrality in religious and nationalist discourse. They sought to eliminate non-Buddhist activities and challenge the dominance of the Kandy-based Buddhist order, reshaping the spatiality of Sinhala-Buddhist imagination. The study analyzes this complex interplay through a lens of nationalism, religion, and colonialism, highlighting local agency's role in redefining Anuradhapura's significance amid shifting political power dynamics.
Groundwater Quality Assessment in Anuradhapura for Domestic Purposes
Groundwater in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, exhibits elevated levels of nitrate and fluoride, posing significant health risks. Nitrate averages 28.725 mg/L (range: 22–131 mg/L), while fluoride averages 0.6 mg/L (range: 0.4–1.7 mg/L). These contaminants are linked to dental fluorosis, skeletal fluorosis, and potential kidney disease, as well as oesophageal cancer and haemoglobinemia from nitrate exposure. Heavy metals like cadmium, arsenic, iron, and copper remain below permissible levels (<0.01 mg/L), suggesting no significant metallic contamination. The study attributes fluoride to natural sources in bedrock and soil, while excessive agricultural fertilizer use drives nitrate pollution. Physical-chemical analysis of 43 well water samples (pH: 6.7–7.7; turbidity: 1–8 NTU) confirms widespread contamination, particularly in the dry zone, with no clear climatic pattern mitigating risks.
Detection and quantification of Aflatoxin B1 in corn and corn-grown soils in the district of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Aflatoxin B1 contamination in corn and soils from Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, poses significant health risks due to its potential to impair physical and cognitive development. This study found that aflatoxin B1 levels in corn kernels can reach up to 60-70 ppb, exceeding the toxic threshold of 20 ppb, while soil samples showed even higher concentrations, ranging from 350-400 ppb. The research suggests a correlation between aflatoxin B1 levels in corn and its corresponding soils, indicating that contamination is not uniformly distributed across the district but increases with soil concentration. To investigate this, 60 corn and 60 soil samples were collected from 20 minor-scale fields using random sampling, analyzed via Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). The findings highlight the need for improved farming practices to mitigate aflatoxin B1 contamination in Anuradhapura's agricultural produce.
Heavy metal contamination in surface sediments of major tanks in Anuradhapura district; A CKDu endemic district in Sri Lanka
Surface sediments of major tanks in Anuradhapura district, Sri Lanka—a region endemic for Chronic Kidney Disease of unknown etiology (CKDu)—show significant heavy metal contamination, posing risks to aquatic life and humans via food chain exposure. Analysis of 16 tanks revealed that average levels of arsenic (As), lead (Pb), and chromium (Cr) exceeded severe effect levels (SEL), while cadmium (Cd), zinc (Zn), and copper (Cu) surpassed lowest effect levels (LEL). Geo Accumulation Indexes (Igeo) indicated moderate pollution across most tanks, suggesting environmental toxicity from agricultural run-offs. The study used Inductive Couple Plasma Mass Spectrometry for metal analysis and Atomic Absorption Spectrometry for calcium and magnesium, highlighting the potential ecological and public health impacts of sediment-bound contaminants in CKDu-affected regions.
Household Level Paddy Storage and Insect Infestation of Paddy, Maize and Mungbean in Anuradhapura District of Sri Lanka
A study on household-level grain storage in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, revealed significant insect infestation patterns affecting paddy, maize, and mungbean. The research identified four primary storage structures, with the most common being rooms inside houses, followed by kitchens, outdoor rooms, and temporary huts. Sitophilus oryzae emerged as the dominant stored-grain pest, alongside other species like Sitotroga cerealella, Tribolium castaneum, and Rhyzopertha dominica. Notably, both storage practices and insect abundance varied across divisional secretariats, highlighting regional differences in grain preservation challenges. This study provides critical insights into household storage vulnerabilities, which could inform targeted interventions to mitigate post-harvest losses—a persistent issue in Sri Lankan agriculture.
Evolution of the dry zone water harvesting and management systems in Sri Lanka during the Anuradhapura Kingdom; a study based on ancient chronicles and lithic inscriptions
A comprehensive analysis of ancient water harvesting and management systems in Sri Lanka's dry zone during the Anuradhapura Kingdom (5th century BCE to 10th century CE) reveals significant insights into their spatial-temporal evolution. By systematically assessing 837 records from inscriptions and chronicles, the study identifies a peak in activity around the second century CE, with Anuradhapura district showing the highest density of information. The analysis highlights that 43.2% of records mention tanks or their construction, while grants of irrigation and irrigation incomes account for 33% and 9%, respectively. Geocoding was successful for 40 records, and 173 text passages were linked to specific kings' reigns. This study underscores the potential of ancient written sources in reconstructing the administrative and spatial development of historical water management systems.
Urban agriculture and buddhist concepts for wellbeing: Anuradhapura sacred city, Sri lanka
Urban agriculture in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka's first Buddhist city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, functions as a 'performing system' that integrates people with the landscape to enhance physical and mental wellbeing. This study reveals how agricultural practices, particularly around large reservoirs (wewa) and paddy fields, create a sustainable urban environment rooted in Buddhist philosophy. By engaging in laborious agricultural tasks, residents experience spiritual dimensions tied to the city's orientation, embodying the 'four noble truths' and fostering a healthy, sustainable cityscape. The research synthesizes phenomenology, anthropology, neuroscience, and Buddhist philosophy to explore how this embodied landscape promotes wellbeing, offering insights into the intersection of agriculture, spirituality, and urban design.
Water quality and microbial contamination status of Madawachchiya, Padaviya and Kebithigollewa areas in Anuradhapura District, Sri Lanka
A significant portion of water sources in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, is contaminated with harmful bacteria and exceeds chemical quality standards. The study found that 32% of the 44 sampled locations were positive for Salmonella spp., a pathogen causing typhoid fever, with two heavily used springs among them. Additionally, most samples failed to meet Sri Lanka's drinking water standards for total coliform, E. coli, and chemical oxygen demand (COD), while 55% exhibited very hard water conditions, particularly in Padaviya. Conductivity levels exceeded safe limits at 25% of locations. Despite these issues, concentrations of nitrite-nitrogen, ammonia-nitrogen, and total phosphate were within acceptable ranges. The research employed standard protocols for sampling, transportation, and analysis to assess microbial and chemical contamination across ground and surface water sources in Madawachchiya, Padaviya, and Kebithigollewa areas.
Ancient cities and narratives of power
Anuradhapura's significance as a sacred city was not solely shaped by British colonial efforts but was deeply ingrained in Sinhala consciousness, even when its architecture lay hidden beneath the jungle. The study reveals that while British archaeological work initially collaborated with local initiatives, it later became dominated by an imperial perspective, leading to tensions with southern Buddhist revivalists who sought to reclaim and protect sacred areas as exclusive national heritage. This shift marked a rupture in the city's narrative, highlighting the complex interplay between colonial power, indigenous identity, and historical preservation.
Drinking water and chronic kidney disease of unknown aetiology in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
In Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, contaminated water is increasingly recognized as a key factor in chronic kidney disease of unknown aetiology (CKDu). This study reveals that local perceptions of water pollution, reinforced by media and research, have driven behavioral changes among villagers while also influencing government policies. The findings highlight how sociocultural narratives about water intersect with biomedical evidence to shape public health responses, reinforcing existing social hierarchies in the process.
Farmers’ Willingness to Cultivate Traditional Rice in Sri Lanka: A Case Study in Anuradhapura District
A significant majority of farmers in Anuradhapura district, Sri Lanka, are willing to cultivate traditional rice over improved varieties, with 67% of male farmers and 65.6% of families affected by non-communicable diseases showing a preference for traditional cultivation. This shift is driven by awareness of the medicinal and nutritional benefits of traditional rice, alongside factors such as land extent, farm gate price, farmer age, education level, farming experience, and system. The study, which surveyed 100 traditional and 100 non-traditional rice growers using stratified sampling, also found that varietal attributes, personal factors (including presence of diseases), market conditions, and production systems significantly influence the selection of traditional rice varieties. These findings suggest a growing recognition among farmers of the health advantages and adaptability of traditional rice, particularly in response to environmental and health challenges.
Hydraulic complexities
Anuradhapura's hydraulic system, comprising perennial and seasonal tanks, played a pivotal role in its development as a significant Indian Ocean urban center. The city's layout included three distinct zones: the Citadel, the monumental Sacred City, and the hinterland. The Nuvaraveva, Tissaveva, and Basavak Kulam tanks were central to this system, with extensive restorations conducted by the British in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The study sheds light on the hydraulic complexities that sustained Anuradhapura's urban core, while also addressing historical narratives, such as the Culavamsa's account of the 11th-century Chola conquest, which depicted it as a violent event leading to widespread destruction and plundering.
Hydro Chemical Assessment of Agro-well Water for Irrigation in Thalawa Block in Mahaweli System-H in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
A hydrochemical assessment of agro-well water for irrigation in the Thalawa block, part of the Mahaweli system H in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, reveals that while most water quality parameters are within acceptable ranges for crop production, 50% of the wells exhibit marginal levels of Residual Sodium Carbonate (RSC). The study, conducted over ten months from October 2016 to July 2017, analyzed water samples from ten representative agro-wells and found that the mean Irrigation Water Quality Index (IWQI) of 48.2 classifies the water as good for irrigation purposes. Despite variations in rainfall and canal water availability, sufficient water levels were maintained even during dry spells, suggesting high potential for sustainable crop production without detrimental effects on soil or plants.
Urban Agriculture and Sacred Landscape: Anuradhapura Sacred City, Sri Lanka
Urban agriculture in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka's ancient sacred city (377 BCE–1017 CE), played a pivotal role in creating a sustainable and spiritually enriching environment. Large water tanks, paddy fields, and canal systems were not merely functional but integral to the Buddhist sacred landscape, fostering human connection with nature while supporting the city's sustenance. This study reveals that these agricultural elements were central to everyday life, shaping social practices and enhancing human well-being through their integration into the urban form and cultural rituals. By synthesizing phenomenology, anthropology, landscape analysis, and historical methods, the research demonstrates how Anuradhapura's design harmonized practical needs with sacred experiences, offering a model for sustainable urban development rooted in spiritual values.
A Time of Change: Questioning the “Collapse" of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Reassessment of Anuradhapura's terminal period challenges the dominant narrative of its collapse, revealing that the eleventh-century Chola invasion was not the sole cause. Archaeological evidence suggests a more complex scenario, with alternative factors such as epidemic malaria and shifts in imperial economic models playing significant roles. This study moves beyond textual sources to provide a nuanced understanding of Anuradhapura's abandonment, offering a more balanced and less politically charged interpretation.
Farming Systems and Utilization of Environmental Resources in Rural Communities in the Dry Zone of Sri Lanka Case Study in “Ritigala”, Anuradhapura District
A study on the Ritigala Strict Natural Reserve, part of Sri Lanka's UNESCO World Heritage Site Anuradhapura, reveals that the complexity of farming systems and geographical location significantly influence the utilization and value of environmental resources. The research identifies three distinct farming systems—paddy-vegetable-livestock being the most resource-intensive—and demonstrates a positive correlation between the complexity of these systems and both the quantity and economic value of environmental goods used, including consumption, input, output, and durable goods. Contribution to household income also aligns with system complexity, underscoring the critical role of environmental resources in rural livelihoods. The study employed a field survey of 120 participants across three villages using descriptive analytical methods.
An Ethnoarchaeological Study of Stone Quarrying Techniques in Historical Anuradhapura
Stone quarrying techniques in ancient Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, reveal advanced methods of block extraction through artificial fracturing. Researchers found that quarry workers exploited natural foliations and weathering fractures, then created additional splits by channeling, heating, or applying percussion pressure to the bedrock surface. A key innovation involved chiselled holes set along targeted areas, often leaving distinctive half-holes in separated fragments—a technique still observed in contemporary stone craftsmanship. By analyzing these patterns alongside interviews with traditional craftsmen, the study estimated the time and tools required for splitting, offering new insights into the efficiency of ancient quarrying practices.
Evaluation of groundwater quality for irrigation in Malwathu Oya cascade-I in Anuradhapura District of Sri Lanka
A significant portion of agro-wells in Malwathu Oya Cascade-I, Anuradhapura District, Sri Lanka, exhibit high salinity with low sodium hazard, rendering them suitable for irrigation with adequate drainage and special measures. The study, conducted from June 2012 to May 2013, assessed groundwater quality using vital parameters such as electrical conductivity, pH, and concentrations of various ions and metals. It found that 60% of the wells had high salinity but low sodium hazard (C3S1), while 5% had low salinity and low sodium (C1S1). The research also revealed that almost all chemical parameters tend to concentrate towards the lower part of the cascade during the pre-monsoon period. Spatial distribution maps were generated using GIS, providing insights into groundwater potential for agriculture.
Re-Inventing the Center: Urban Memory, Political Travel and the Palace of the Parliament in Bucharest, Romania
This study highlights the significance of urban stasis and continuity in shaping the physical and cultural heritage of Sri Lanka's sacred cities, particularly Anuradhapura. It reveals how periods of continuous habitation, such as those in Anuradhapura (4 BCE - 11 ACE) and Polonnaruwa (11–13 ACE), led to the accumulation of monumental structures like stupas, palace complexes, hospitals, and reservoirs, which are now preserved by UNESCO. The research spatializes political geography and interprets urban design as a visual or cartographical text, influenced by religio-political tropes such as the mandala. It also traces the evolution of these cities through periods of abandonment due to invasion or drought, culminating in the last indigenous capital at Senkadagala (Kandy). The study employs historical analysis and spatial interpretation to understand the longevity and cultural significance of these urban landscapes.
Ancient Rock Quarries in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
A comprehensive survey of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, has identified 65 ancient rock quarries, primarily concentrated along a central outcrop line that traverses the city. These quarries were classified into six categories based on their morphological and archaeological significance, providing critical insights into the construction practices of this UNESCO World Heritage Site from the 4th century BCE to the 11th century CE. The study also reveals that historic stone buildings, particularly in monasteries, are strategically located along these exposed rock outcrops, suggesting a deliberate integration of natural geological features into architectural planning.
Developing Local Resources in Community-Based Rehabilitation Programme in Sri Lanka: Follow-up Study in Anuradhapura
A follow-up study on the Sacred City of Anuradhapura reveals that community workshops, a key component of community-based rehabilitation (CBR) programs, hold significant potential for developing local resources. The research highlights strong support from disabled individuals and local government officers, suggesting that local communities can effectively leverage opportunities to address weaknesses in resource development. Using an action research approach with qualitative methods—including interviews, focus group discussions, and field notes—the study analyzed data through a SWOT framework (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats). Findings indicate both positive and negative attributes of these workshops, offering insights for improving CBR programs in rural Sri Lanka. The study underscores the importance of community engagement and local governance in sustainable rehabilitation efforts.
Seasonal variation of water quality parameters in different geomorphic Channels of the upper Malwathu Oya in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Water quality parameters in the upper Malwathu Oya, Sri Lanka, exhibit significant seasonal variation, with nitrate, phosphate, and chloride concentrations peaking during the first inter-monsoon season (March-April) in paddy-growing areas. The study, conducted from March 2012 to February 2013, found that while these parameters generally remained within safe thresholds for drinking water, turbidity and dissolved oxygen levels were highest during the northeast monsoon season. Factorial analysis revealed no significant differences in dissolved oxygen or turbidity between paddy and non-paddy areas, though anthropogenic activities from agricultural runoff notably impacted water quality. This research highlights the seasonal dynamics of water quality in a critical river system within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Anuradhapura.
Analysis of Drought Severity and Duration Using Copulas in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
A major drought event in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, characterized by 9 months of duration and a severity index of 10.95, was identified using advanced statistical modeling. The study employed copula-based joint distribution analysis to assess the interdependence between drought duration and severity, utilizing 3-month Standard Precipitation Index (SPI) data from 1951 to 2007. Frank copula was determined as the best-fit model for representing this relationship, combining gamma distributions for both variables. The research highlights the potential for preplanning and risk mitigation strategies by leveraging univariate and multivariate return periods of droughts, offering critical insights for managing agricultural vulnerabilities in drought-prone regions.
Diversity of Tree Flora in Homegardens in Urban Proximity of Anuradhapura City, Sri Lanka
A comparative analysis of tree flora diversity in homegardens near Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, reveals significant differences between inherited and settled lands. Inherited lands exhibit a higher mean harvestable tree density (54.5 trees/acre) compared to settled lands (40.3 trees/acre), with exotic timber species like Tectona grandis and Berrya cordifolia dominating the latter due to economic incentives. In contrast, inherited lands show greater abundance of multipurpose trees such as Artocarpus heterophyllus, Azadirachta indica, and Mangifera indica, contributing to food security. Cocos nucifera is the most abundant species across both categories, accounting for over 40% of tree populations. The study also highlights potential for carbon crediting programs, offering a dual benefit for forestry and farming under shifting climatic conditions.
Libraries in Sri Lanka in the Ancient Anuradhapura Period: a Historical Account (250 B.C. – 1017 A.D.)
Historical evidence from the Mahawamsa and Culawamsa reveals that ancient Sri Lanka, during the Anuradhapura period (250 B.C. – 1017 A.D.), hosted numerous monastic libraries, likely associated with major Buddhist learning centers such as the Mahavihara, Abhayagiri, and Jetavana. While direct records of these early libraries are scarce, their existence is corroborated by ancient literary sources, marking a significant milestone in Sri Lankan bibliographic tradition. The study highlights how Buddhism's introduction under King Devanampiyatissa and the arrival of Arahant Mahinda and Sangamimtha catalyzed literary and educational development, establishing foundational repositories of knowledge that enriched monastic education.
Anuradhapura: Volume III: The Hinterland
Anuradhapura's hinterland reveals a unique model of 'Tropical Forest Low Density Urbanism,' characterized by the absence of towns and the division of settlements into Buddhist monasteries or agricultural villages. This interdisciplinary study, spanning six years, combines settlement survey, excavation, and geoarchaeology to trace the growth of rural communities in response to Anuradhapura's rise as a capital and pilgrimage center from the first millennium BC onwards. It also documents the collapse of this hinterland by the eleventh century AD, providing the most detailed archaeology study of a South Asian urban hinterland's dynamic and contested nature.
Characterisation of the Rota Wewa tank cascade system in the vicinity of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Ancient Sri Lankan tank cascade systems, such as the Rota Wewa near Anuradhapura, demonstrate sophisticated watershed management strategies from 5th century BC to 11th century AD. These systems, designed for flood prevention, soil erosion control, and water storage, reveal challenges in reconstructing sediment and water fluxes due to shallow tank structures prone to redeposition during wet seasons and agricultural use in dry periods. Sedimentological analyses distinguish between weathered bedrock and overlying sediments but struggle to differentiate between wewa deposits and underlying fluvial deposits, highlighting the complexity of human-environment interactions in these ancient systems.
Luminescence dating of brick stupas: an application to the hinterland of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Luminescence dating reveals distinct construction phases in brick stupas, offering new insights into the architectural biographies of religious monuments. This groundbreaking approach uses optically stimulated luminescence to date brick fabric, distinguishing between original and recycled materials, which provides a more accurate timeline for economic and political changes. The study, conducted in the hinterland of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, demonstrates that while brick replacement and embellishment complicate absolute dating, it effectively identifies different building episodes. This method enhances our understanding of stupa evolution and their societal significance.
Contextualising the Tabbova-Maradanmaduva ‘Culture’: Excavations at Nikawewa, Tirappane District, Anuradhapura District, Sri Lanka
Excavations at Nikawewa, Sri Lanka, have provided the first absolute scientific date for terracotta figurines and artefacts traditionally linked to the Tabbova-Maradanmaduva 'culture,' challenging long-standing assumptions about their origins. Contrary to the notion that these artefacts represent spontaneous 'folk art' created by local communities, the study suggests a high degree of uniformity in the terracotta corpus, indicating a formalised ritual structure parallel to Buddhist monasteries. This research, conducted as part of the Anuradhapura Project: The Hinterland (Phase II), employed stratigraphic excavation and sampling to address uncertainties surrounding the dating and significance of these artefacts, offering new insights into their cultural and social context.
Discovery of Aneuretus simoni Emery in a disturbed forest in Kalutara, and Stereomyrmex horni Emery in Anuradhapura Sanctuary, Sri Lanka
Two rare ant species, Aneuretus simoni and Stereomyrmex horni, have been discovered in distinct forest areas of Sri Lanka. Aneuretus simoni was found in a disturbed forest in Kalutara, while Stereomyrmex horni was identified within the Anuradhapura Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its historical and ecological significance. These discoveries highlight the presence of these previously understudied species in Sri Lankan ecosystems, contributing to our understanding of ant biodiversity in the region. The research involved field surveys and taxonomic analysis, underscoring the importance of both disturbed and protected forest habitats in supporting diverse ant populations.
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