Serendib - March 2019

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During the Season of Lent, believers observe the Way of the Cross at the Maggona and Hiniduma Calvary Shrines, emulating Jesus's journey to deliver salvation and redemption to all.

Sri Lanka’s women have been pivotal in the history of the island. They have been inspirational, and their contribution to the society in all spheres have been immense.

In March, the big match cricket fever rises to a pitch as old boys from around the world gather to cheer on their alma mater. It has become an integral part of the island culture.

The ancient temple includes elements from Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, and Kandyan kingdoms.

Simple in appearance, roti comes in various forms and is a wonderful snack. Make a journey to Aluthkade in Colombo, where street stalls provide a bounty of roti.

The vast and fascinating Chinese metropolis offers an unparalleled trip to delight and intrigue travellers.

Few travelers to Asia know of Kochi – the historic, beautiful city in the southern Indian state of Kerala provides visitors an opportunity to have a more authentic experience.

The Anawilundawa Bird Sanctuary, which is home to a vast variety of species, is located between Chilaw and Puttalam.

Maha Shivarathri is annually celebrated on the 13th day following the February full moon poya day. The celebration pays homage to the Hindu God Ishwara or Shiva, where devotees take part in religious poojas throughout the night. Special rituals are held at 7.30pm, 10.30pm, 1am and 4am and Hindus gather at Kovils, chanting special mantras while the Shiva lingam is bathed with milk, coconut water, sandalwood, ghee, honey, curd and leaves of the bael tree. Every Shivan kovil in the island will celebrate this festival. The Pancha Ishwarams in Sri Lanka; Naguleswaram in Jaffna, Ketheeswaram in Mannar, Munneswaram in Chilaw, Tondeswaram in Matara and Koneswaram in Trincomalee hold a special place for Maha Shivarathri. Information provided by S V Krishna Iyer, Priest, Munneswaram Kovil, Chilaw.