i ASAS

Indian Associa�on
for South Asian Studies

     

        

IASAS 2023
              

Published by the
Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences
Nāgānanda International Institute for Buddhist Studies (NIIBS)
3rd Biennial International Conference of the Indian Association for
South Asian Studies

BOOK OF ABSTRACTS

IASAS 2023
24th and 25th July 2023

“‘South Asian Interconnections: Producing Knowledge through

Practice”

Jointly Organized by
Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences
Nāgānanda International Institute of Buddhist Studies
and
Indian Association for South Asian Studies, New Delhi, India
 Book of Abstracts of the 3rd Biennial International Conference of the Indian Association for South Asian Studies

108 Pages

ISSN: 3021-6516

Copyright© Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences

All rights are reserved according to the Code of Intellectual Property Act of Sri Lanka, 2003

Published by: Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences (FHSS), Nāgānanda International Institute of
Buddhist Studies (NIIBS), Sri Lanka

Tel/Fax: 0112 904 663, 0112 904 660

Disclaimer

The responsibility for opinions expressed, in articles, studies and other contributions in this publication
rests solely with their authors, and this publication does not constitute an endorsement by Faculty of
Humanities and Social Sciences of the opinions so expressed in them.

Website of the Faculty: https://fhss.niibs.lk/

Published By : Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences,

Nāgānanda International Institute of Buddhist Studies, Sri Lanka.

Cover Design by : Kanishka Wijayarathna

Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences
Nāgānanda International Institute of Buddhist Studies

ii
 CONFERENCE COMMITTEE
Chairperson
Prof. Prashnatha B. Mandawala
Dean
Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences (FHSS)
Nāgānanda International Institute for Buddhist Studies (NIIBS)

Conference Convener
Dr. Ashutosh Kumar
President, Indian Association for South Asian Studies
Associate Professor, Department of History, Banaras Hindu University

Conference Secretary
Dr. Ashoka Karunarathna, University of Sri Jayewardenepura,

Conference Coordinators
Mr. Kanishka Wijayarathna, Lecturer, FHSS, NIIBS
Ms. Bhagya Hettiarachchi, Assistant Registrar, FHSS, NIIBS

Committee Members
Prof. Binda D. Paranjape
Dean, Faculty of Social Sciences, Banaras Hindu University

Prof. Sashi Kumar

Dean, Faculty of performing arts, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi India

Prof. Ghan Shyam

Head, Department of History, Banaras Hindu University

Dr. Dhiraj Nite

Assistant Professor, Ambedkar University Delhi, New Delhi

Dr. Deepanjali Mishra

Associate Professor, School of Humanities, KIIT (Deemed to be University), Bhubaneswar,
Orissa

Ayushi Varma
PhD Candidate,Department of History, Banaras Hindu University

Mr Senaka Senevitahene,
Head and Lecturer in Applied Communication and Media Technology, FHSS, NIIBS
Ms. Najma Amath, Lecturer, FHSS, NIIBS
Ms. Ishari Dilmini, Lecturer, FHSS, NIIBS

Editorial Members
Dr. Ashutosh Kumar, Associate Professor, Department of History, Banaras Hindu University
Mr. Kanishka Wijayarathna, Lecturer, FHSS, NIIBS
Ms. Bhagya Hettiarachchi, Assistant Registrar, FHSS, NIIBS

iii
 MESSAGE FROM THE VICE-CHANCELLOR

On behalf of the Nāgānanda International Institute for Buddhist Studies, I would like to convey
appreciation to the Indian Association for South Asian Studies, Banaras Hindu University,
Varanasi, India for organising an International Research Conference on Humanities and Social
Sciences International Conference of the Indian Association for South Asian Studies IASAS
2023 in collaboration with the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences of the Nāgānanda
International Institute for Buddhist Studies (NIIBS).
We all know that the South Asian region is home to one of the oldest civilizations in the world.
From an economic, political, and social perspective, today, it is the most significant and lively
global cultural centers.
Research that focused on South Asia has expanded in tandem with the region's increasing
importance, as it occupies a position of increased prominence on the global stage. A unique
strategy for comprehending the interdisciplinary subject of South Asian studies based on
rigorous procedures, suitable techniques, and the application of ethical principles and
intellectual honesty had been created during this conference. We had a great privilege not only
to bring together viewpoints from many different fields and disciplines but also to offer a
valuable forum for academics, researchers, stakeholders, and others to examine, debate, and
share the results of recent studies. This encouraged a critical thinking and stimulated an
intellectual debate as well. In the current political context of our nations, it is crucial for
humanities and social science departments to play a significant role in fostering constructive
social change. Consequently, it is my hope that this year’s conference, South Asian
Interconnections: Producing Knowledge through Practice of these two subject domains,
humanities and social sciences, across local and global communities, had become a site for
new, pertinent and transformational knowledge production.
I take this opportunity to extend my gratitude to the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences
for their dedication and commitment to make this event a successful. And I highly appreciate
the contribution given by the Indian Association for South Asian Studies for making this event
success. I conclude my congratulatory remarks by wishing all the participants who contributed
to have a fruitful and rewarding conference a bright and successful future endeavour.

Ven. Dr. Bodagama Chandima Thero

Vice-Chancellor
Nāgānanda International Institute for Buddhist Studies (NIIBS), Sri Lanka.

iv
 MESSAGE FROM THE DEAN

The 3rd Biennial International Conference of the Indian Association for South Asian Studies
(IASAS) on South Asian Interconnections on the theme of Producing Knowledge through
Practice was held at the Nāgānanda International Institute for Buddhist Studies (NIIBS),
Manelwatta, Bollegala, Kelaniya, Sri Lanka on 24th and 25th July 2023.

The Conference was organized by Indian Association for South Asian Studies of Banaras in
India and Hindu University of Varanasi in India in collaboration with the Faculty of Humanities
and Social Sciences (FHSS) of the Nāgānanda International Institute for Buddhist Studies.

Objective of the conference was to enhance institutional education and training across sectors
with interconnection of local and South Asian countries. The main aim of the conference was
to be more focused on the interconnections among South Asian countries in terms of labour,
ideas, commodities, culture, religion, and performing practices since the world we live in is
intertwined, with constant movements of products, services, capital, labour, information, and
ideas. As these movements have served as the foundation for constructing global value chains
this conference explored the interconnectedness of South Asians from pre-history to modern
times.

The conference was attended by academic and government sector professionals of both
counties. 100 research papered were submitted for the conference in which 40 papers were
submitted by foreign and 60 papers were submitted by Sri Lankan scholars.

The conference activities ware held with an opening ceremony in which Dr. Ashutosh Kumar,
President of the IASAS delivered a keynote address on the theme of Theorising Southasianess:
Connections and Shared Past. The business sessions were held on 11 parallel sessions on the
themes of Economics & Political Science, Performing Arts, Media and Journalism, Geography,
Language/ Literature and Linguistic studies, Education, Psychology & Medical Sciences,
Anthropology / Sociology, History and Archaeology, Religious Studies, and Language/
Literature and Linguistic studies with 20 scholars chairing the sessions in which 88 research
papers were presented by 33 Indian and 37 Sri Lankan delegates. The conference was
concluded with a plenary session in which 04 plenary speeches were delivered on the topics of
The Practices in Carnatic Music: With Special Reference to the Improvisation Aspects,

v
Decolonisation and Modern Management: The Formation of Managerial Cadre and its
Institution in India, 1947-197, Interfaith Dialogue for Environmental Harmony in South Asia
and Interstate Connections and Imagining a Common Destiny for South Asia: Revisiting the
ideals of Non-Violence and Non Alignment in the present context of regional and global
relations.

The conference was successfully concluded with the outcomes aimed in fostering tangible
collaborations between South Asian academics in education fields, exploration of application
of learning to practice and connection of practice to learning and intending to sign an MOU
with the Nāgānanda International Institute for Buddhist Studies for future endeavours.

The students of the FHSS conducted a colourful cultural Show which was greatly appreciated
and highly admired by all International and National scholars who participated in the
programme. The post-conference tour to Sigiriya and Anuradhapura was also held on the 26th
and to Colombo City on the 27th accompanied by Ms. Bhagya Hettiarachchi, the conference
secretary.

The fullest corporation and support for the successful completion of the conference extended
by Ven Dr. Bodagama Chandima Thero, the Vice Chancellor of the Institute and all
administration, finance, academic and non-academic staff of the Institution was highly
appreciated and admired by all international and national delegated who participated in the
conference.

Prof. Prashnatha B. Mandawala

Dean
Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences (FHSS)
Nāgānanda International Institute for Buddhist Studies (NIIBS)

vi
 KEYNOTE ADDRESS
Dr. Ashutosh Kumar
President, Indian Association for South Asian Studies
Associate Professor, Department of History, Banaras Hindu University

This conference aims to be more focused on the interconnections among the South Asian
countries in terms of labour, ideas, commodities, culture, religion and performing practices.
The world we live in is intertwined, with constant movements of products, services, capital,
labour, information, and ideas. These movements have served as the foundation for the
construction of global value chains. Hence this conference explores the interconnectedness of
South Asians from pre-history to modern times.
Despite a history of ethnic, linguistic and political fragmentation, South Asia region (India,
Pakistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Maldives and Afghanistan) have been
connected to each other from ancient times. This connectedness has created a shared past in
terms of socio-religio, cultural, political and economic sphere. Apart from above these
countries have a shared experience of colonialism, racialism and economic exploitation, all
opposed to foreign bases and foreign intervention, all have embraced the concept of regional
organization, albeit to varied degrees and with varied stances.
Hence, these countries have been trying to cooperate with each other after the decolonisation.
The importance of South Asian regional cooperation is seen in the endeavour it represents to
create a cooperative South Asian solution to the region's challenges. This policy seeks to
change the collective regional status of these nations from one of dependence on the developed
world to one of equal partners with it, allowing the developing nations to show their strength.
This provides them with the crucial negotiation leverage in their discussions with the ‘North’.
Going along these lines of cooperation and collective status, this conference welcomes panels
and papers that combine the approaches and knowledge from many different fields to examine
the past and give those other fields a historical perspective. Connecting historical studies to
disciplines like economics, demographics, politics, sociology, anthropology, psychology, and
others are also welcome.
The conference hopes to be able to encourage more research by generating new perspectives
by exploring new as well as alternative and evolving research ideas and methods

vii
 Table of Contents
MESSAGE FROM THE VICE-CHANCELLOR
MESSAGE FROM THE DEAN
KEYNOTE ADDRESS
PERFORMING ARTS 1-6

BHARATNATYAM: AS A NON–VERBAL COMMUNICATION 2

A STUDY OF DANCE USAGE IN PATHTHINI MOVIE 3

NUTRITIONAL DEVELOPMENT OF SRI LANKAN DANCERS 4

A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF BHARATHANATYAM DANCE AND KANDIYAN DANCE 5

A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF BHARATNATYAM AND SRI LANKAN TRADITIONAL 6

DANCES

MEDIA AND JOURNALISM 7-11

HOW SRI LANKAN PROFESSIONAL JOURNALISTS PRACTICE MEDIA ETHICS ON 8

SOCIAL MEDIA

BREAKING THE GLASS CEILING- MYTH OR REALITY 9

UTILITY OF THE LEGAL APPROACH TO THE ROLE OF MEDIA REGULATION FOR A 10

REALISTIC APPROACH TO MEDIA FREEDOM AND MEDIA DEMOCRACY

CULTURAL EXCHANGE BETWEEN INDIA AND SRI LANKA: THROUGH THE LENS OF 11
FILMS

GEOGRAPHY 12-17

TECHNOLOGIES AND PRACTICES FOR ADAPTING TRADITIONAL FARMERS TO 13

CLIMATE SMART AGRICULTURE (CSA)
IMPACT OF VOID GEOMETRY OF A DESIGNED LANDSCAPE ON HUMAN MODERATE 14
BEHAVIORAL PATTERNS

SEDIMENTARY CHARACTERISTICS AND HEAVY MINERAL ABUNDANCE IN THE 15

BACKSHORE REGION OF PULMODDAI BEACH - A MONSOONAL AND
GEOMORPHOLOGICAL FOCUS

THE CONTRIBUTION OF THE CLASSIC ERA TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF MODERN 16

GEOGRAPHICAL THOUGHTS

COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF INVASIVE ALIEN FLORA SPECIES IN URBAN 17

WETLAND HABITATS OF WESTERN PROVINCE; USING GEO-SPATIAL ANALYSIS, SRI
LANKA

viii
LANGUAGE/ LITERATURE AND LINGUISTIC STUDIES 18-29

ASIAN FEMININE IDENTITY IN THE VISUAL POETRY OF KALIDASA 19

ASPECTS OF LINGUISTIC SEXISM IN HEDGES AND FILLERS OF HINDI 20

PREVENTIVE POTENTIAL OF PRATIMARSHA NASYA: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW 21

OF AYURVEDA TEXTS AND CONTEMPORARY LITERATURE

A STUDY OF THE INSTRUMENT CATEGORY “ĀTATAVITATA” IN THE PAṂCATŪRYA 22

CLASSIFICATION: WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO ANCIENT SRI LANKAN PĀLI
AṬṬHAKATHĀ AND ṬĪKĀ

मध्य स्वर ‘अ’ /ǝ/ के ववतरण का तुलनात्मक अध्ययन (स िंहली तथा सहिंदी भाषाओं के अधार पर) 23
A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF DISTRIBUTION OF CENTRAL VOWEL ‘अ’ /Ǝ/
(BASED ON SINHALA AND HINDI LANGUAGES)

प्रेमचिंद की कहानी कला में िंवदे नों का अनछु ए पहलू का ववश्लेषण: 24

STORY CRAFT OF PREMCHAND: AN ANALYSIS OF UNIQUE EMOTIONS AND
SENSIBILITY

ENGLISH WRITING IN SOUTH ASIA: INTERNAL COLONIALISM AND THE POLITICS 25

OF REPRESENTATION

LINGUISTIC DIVERSITY AND THE HEGEMONY OF ENGLISH IN SOUTH ASIA 26

SOUTH ASIAN INTERCONNECTION IN MEDIEVAL INDIAN LITERATURE IN 27

PARTICULAR REFERENCE WITH HINDI SUFI TRADITION

DIVERSIFYING UNITY: DEBATING A ‘NATIONAL’ LANGUAGE FOR INDIA; SOME 28

PERSPECTIVES FROM THE CONSTITUENT ASSEMBLY DEBATES ON THE ISSUE OF
NATIONAL LANGUAGE

BENGALI SOUND SYMBOLISM AS A RESISTANCE AGAINST THE POLITICAL 29

IMPOSITION OF THE COLONIAL LANGUAGE

EDUCATION 30-35

THE EFFECTIVE USE OF CONTEXT DEPENDENT MUSIC TO IMPROVE EDUCATIONAL 31

PATTERNS IN SRI LANKA

INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY IN SRI LANKAN HIGHER 32

EDUCATION

THE IMPACT OF GAME-BASED LEARNING AND INTERACTIVE MULTIMEDIA 33

LESSONS ON LEARNING SINHALA LETTERS FOR STUDENTS WITH LEARNING
DISABILITIES

THE IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON STUDENTS’ ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE - A 34

CASE OF UNIVERSITY OF THE VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS

MADRASAS AS CITES OF KNOWLEDGE IN COLONIAL INDIA: A STUDY OF 35

KNOWLEDGE DISSEMINATION AND REFORMATION IN THE ISLAMIC EDUCATION
SYSTEM IN THE 18-19TH CENTURIES

ix
PSYCHOLOGY & MEDICAL SCIENCES 36-44

CLINICAL APPLICATION OF COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE THERAPIES IN 37

CONTEMPORARY HEALTH CARE: A REVIEW

INFLUENCE OF EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE ON MARITAL SATISFACTION 38

AN APPROACH TO BUDDHIST MENTAL HYGIENE AND ITS UTILITY 39

BLASPHEMY: A BUDDHIST APPROACH 40

PHILOSOPHICAL ANALYSIS OF THE CHALLENGE OF INTEGRATING BUDDHISM 41

WITH HUMANISTIC PERSPECTIVE ON PSYCHOLOGY / MEDICAL STUDIES
(REGARDING THE CONCEPT OF VOLUNTARISM AND DETERMINISM)

A CRITICAL REVIEW OF NIRGUNDIKATAILA OF SARASAMKSHEPA IN UTTAMANGA 42

CIKITSA

EFFECTS OF EMPLOYEE ATTITUDES TOWARDS PROFESSIONAL ETHICS ON 43

MOTIVATION IN THE INSURANCE INDUSTRY A CASE STUDY
“YOGA AS THE INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE FOR MAKING SOUTH ASIA HEALTHIER 44
AND MORE HARMONIOUS: WITH ESPECIAL REFERENCE TO INDIA AND SRI LANKA”

ANTHROPOLOGY / SOCIOLOGY 45-55

46
WOMEN'S ROLES IN SRI LANKA'S ANCIENT CULTURE OF PEACE
THE IMPACT OF CHINESE CULTURAL IDENTITY ON CHINESE LANGUAGE 47
LEARNING ATTITUDES AND OUTCOMES: A CASE STUDY OF CHINESE LANGUAGE
MAJOR UNDERGRADUATES IN SRI LANKA

AN ANTHROPOLOGICAL STUDY ON HOW THE CULTURAL DIFFUSION AFFECTED 48

THE CULTURAL TRANSFORMATION OF THE SRI LANKAN KAFFIR COMMUNITY.
(WITH REFERENCE TO SIRAMBIADI)

A SOCIOLOGICAL STUDY ON THE IMPACT OF WATCHING TV SERIES ON THE LIVES 49

OF TEENAGERS

CULTIVATING CHANGE: SOCIO-CULTURAL ASPECTS OF DECLINING TRADITIONAL 50

AGRICULTURE IN JAFFNA, SRI LANKA

CASTE ON THE PLANTATIONS: DALITS’ LIFE UNDER THE INDENTURE 51

COMPARATIVE STUDY OF RITUALISTIC PRACTICES OF BENGAL’S MANASĀ GHOT 52

AND BIHAR’S BIHULĀ-VIŚAHARĪ BĀRĪ KALAŚACAX

SOCIAL STIGMAS OF WOMEN IN CORPORATE WORLD 53

INTELLECTUAL EXCHANGES IN SOUTH ASIAN COUNTRIES (IN PARTICULAR 54

CONTEXT OF BHAKTI MOVEMENT)

ANALYSIS OF THE SOCIA- ECONOMIC STRUCTURE OF MIGRATED PATA AND 55

NAKSHI KANTHA ARTISTS IN BIRBHUM OF WEST BENGAL

x
HISTORY AND ARCHAEOLOGY 56-65

IDENTIFYING THE POTENTIAL TO DEVELOP SUSTAINABLE RESORT PLANNING 57

CONCEPTS FROM ANCIENT LANDSCAPE & ARCHITECTURE TO THE CURRENT SRI
LANKAN RESORT PLANNING: SPECIAL REFERENCE WITH SIGIRIYA
ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE

A STUDY ON THE ROLE OF BODHISATTVA AS AN EXEMPLARY IDEAL FOR 58

REDUCING

AN INVESTIGATION OF THE EMPLOYMENT AMONG THE COMMON PEOPLE IN 59

MEDIEVAL SRI LANKAN SOCIETY

HISTORICAL VALUES AND BEHAVIORS OF SAGAMA RAJAMAHA VIHARA 60

SHIV NADAR INSTITUTE OF EMINENCE 61

MUSEUMS OF INDIA: SURVEYING MUSEUMS AND THE END OF EMPIRE

"SWAMI VIVEKANANDA'S VISIT TO SRI LANKA: A HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE ON 62

INTERFAITH DIALOGUE AND CULTURAL EXCHANGE"

WOMEN IN MYTHS AND THEIR DISCRIMINATION: AN ANALYSIS OF THE PAST TILL 63

PRESENT

DIDACTIC TO DIALECTICAL: THE TRANSFER OF KNOWLEDGE AND RESPONSE 64

THROUGH PRACTICE IN AGRAIAN BIHAR IN 19 TH CENTURY

THE CERAS OF MAKOTAI: AN EPIGRAPHICAL EVIDENCE FROM SRI LANKA 65

RELIGIOUS STUDIES 66-71

THE SIGNIFICANCE OF ENABLING BHIKKHUNI LEADERS IN DISSEMINATING 67

THERAVĀDA BUDDHISM TO THE WORLD

THE THREE SPIRITUAL FACULTIES ARE DESCRIBED IN THE THERAVĀDA 68

ABHIDHAMMA.

BUDDHIST ATTITUDE ABOUT COMPASSIONATE KILLING 69

THE CONCEPT OF DHYĀNA AND SAMĀDHI IN ABHIDHARMAKOŚA 70

A STUDY IN ETHICAL AND HUMANITARIAN CHARACTERISTICS OF 'ĀYATI- 71

SAMVARA' (FUTURAL RESTRAINT) IN THE TEACHINGS OF THE BUDDHA'.

EXTENDED ABSTRACTS 72-95

THE CONTRIBUTION OF THE CLASSIC ERA TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF MODERN 73

GEOGRAPHICAL THOUGHTS

CULTURALLY RESPONSIVE APPROACHES FOR ENHANCING EDUCATION AMONG 77

THE INDIGENOUS COMMUNITIES IN SRI LANKA

FOSTERING MARITIME CONNECTIVITY IN SOUTH ASIA: ROLE OF 80

THE REGIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

xi
VAMANA FIGURES: AN ARTISTIC REPRESENTATION OF ACHONDROPLASIA AND 88
THE UTILITY OF ACHONDROPLASTIC PEOPLE AS A THEME TO ARTISTICALLY
ILLUSTRATE THE CONCEPTS OF VAMANA AND BHAIRAVA (A STUDY BASED ON
DWARF CARVINGS IN INDIA AND SRI LANKA)

IMPACT OF NEW MEDIA ON INTERPERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS: A CROSS- 93

CULTURAL PSYCHOLOGICAL APPROACH

xii
 IASAS 2023

SHORT ABSTRACTS
PERFORMING ARTS

1
 IASAS 2023

BHARATNATYAM: AS A NON – VERBAL COMMUNICATION

Fernando MPC
Department of Indian & Asian Dance, Faculty of Dance & Drama,
University of the Visual & Performing Arts, Sri Lanka
pathumciksv@gmail.com
Abstract
Bharatanatyam is the bhava (expression), raga (melody) and tala (rhythm) are gathered together. It is a
beautiful aesthetic art. Hasta mudras are combined in different ways, like with just one hand, or with
two hands, arm movements, body and facial expressions to make hundreds of mudras. Dance is a form
of communication. Bharatanatyam includes storytelling through certain movements, hand gestures, foot
movements and facial expressions, this dance form also gives dancers the opportunity to learn about
ancient stories, myths, and legends from the Hindu religion, thus allowing Bharatnatyam students to be
more aware of their culture and heritage.The classical Bharata Natyam tradition, like other Indian dance
traditions, is rich in hasta mudra Padha bhedas.Dance is one of the oldest forms of communication
between people. Human beings have been expressing their complex and abstract feelings or emotions
through non verbal forms of communication. Dance is one of the greatest and special forms of non
verbal communication. In dance, the human body is used as a medium or instrument which transforms
itself from the realm of movement to the realm of meaning. This paper is an attempt to focus on dance
as not only a tool of non verbal communicati on but also a tool of conveying a wide range of stories,
emotions, feelings, etc. symbolically and didactically.
Keywords: Bharatnatyam, Mudras, Body Movements, Postures, Non-verbal aspect of Bharatnatyam

2
 IASAS 2023

A STUDY OF DANCE USAGE IN PATHTHINI MOVIE

Dissanayake KGJU* and Manamperi AKM

Department of Languages, Cultural Studies and Performing Arts,

Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka
janithdissanayake1998@gmail.com

Abstract

In addition to acting in Sinhala films which are based on historical sources, a dance usage can also be
identified. The Paththini movie directed by Sunil Ariyaratne is based on the Sri Lankan Paththini faith
and the South Indian Kannagi story. Therefore, Sri Lankan and South Indian cultures are based on it.
The study intends to investigate whether the based social cultures are represented through the use of
dance in the Paththini movie. The study objectives were primarily to study the dance usage of this
movie, and secondarily to identify the based social cultures and to identify their unique dance styles.
Qualitative techniques were used to collect data for the study. It has been presented as a content analysis
collected through the methods of watching movies, library study, and interviews. For the song 'Paththini
Devi', the Gammadu Shanthikarmaya of the low country dance tradition has been used to depict the Sri
Lankan Paththini faith. In the songs 'Punchi Samanali' and 'Sansare Giri Durgaya', the characteristics of
South Indian dance styles like Bharatanatyam appeared. The song 'Ran Hasun' and Prince Kapila's duet
dance scene with Madhavi have been identified as showing similar characteristics to North Indian
Kathak dance movements as well as the costumes and jewellery. It was revealed that the North Indian
music style, which has been used in a way that contradicts the based South Indian culture, has also been
heavily influenced on it. Accordingly, the study concluded that due to the dance styles and music style
used in Paththini film, in many times the representation of the socio-cultural elements have been
overlooked. In a cinematic dance usage, it can be recommended that such weaknesses will be minimized
by well studying the sources and maintaining a respectable interrelationship between the technicians.

Keywords: dance styles, dance usage, paththini, sinhala films, social culture

3
 IASAS 2023

NUTRITIONAL DEVELOPMENT OF SRI LANKAN DANCERS

Dissanayake RH
Faculty of Dance & Drama,
Department of Kandyan Dance
heshani7th@gmail.com
Abstract

Artists studying Sri Lankan dance traditions, tend to move up to the professional level after completing
their higher education. Understanding the right nutrient food chains is an essential factor in taking the
perfect dancer's physical abilities to an advanced level and thereby developing their dancing skills.
According to internationally recognized records, there are criteria for how a dancer should get the
nutrients he or she needs to maintain his or her physical fitness, and there is very little focus on such
criteria in the local dance system. The main purpose of this research is to study explore the level of
understanding possessed by professional dancers who followed traditional dance. Although world-
renowned nutrition criteria for dancers are prevalent, why is there such a rare trend in Sri Lanka? It is
expected to use 10 graduate dancers (professional) who have studied the classical dance traditions as a
sample in this research process. Books and research papers related to the scope of study are used as
secondary sources for the study of theoretical aspects related to research. Samples are used in the
analysis of data obtained in relation to the self-assessment tools of the selected artists. An understanding
of nutrient planning is an essential factor in further enhancing the dancing skills of professional Sri
Lankan dancers.

Keywords: Sri Lankan Dancer, Nutrition Development, Dance Skills

4
 IASAS 2023

A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF BHARATHANATYAM DANCE AND

KANDYAN DANCE

Senaviratna SA and Abeynayake PM*

Indian & Asian Dance Department, Dance & Drama Faculty,
Visual & Performing Arts University, Sri Lanka
pavithra.ma18@gmail.com

Abstract
Dance is a dynamic and enthralling form of cultural expression that is extremely important to both Sri
Lanka and India because they are neighboring nations with a common cultural history. They created
and established their individual dancing traditions over time. The ways in which they both
commemorate and honor their rich cultural past through dance, which can be seen to have many
similarities. Bharathanatyam is an Indian classical dance form that is characterized by its complex
rhythmic patterns and movements. It originated in South India and is popular throughout the country.
On the ancient side, Sri Lanka has a rich history of dance, and Kandyan dance is one of the most
prominent dance traditions. Only the Nritta element of Bharathanatyam is taken into consideration when
comparing limb movements because Kandyan dance is exclusively Nritta dance and Bharathanatyam
includes both Nritta and Nritya dance repertoires. Kandyan dance has been practiced by men since its
early days, whereas Bharathanayam has always been a dance for ladies.In addition to enhancing the
dance's beauty, background music also helps to develop the relationship between performers and
spectators. In both dances, the music is outstanding. The Bharathanatyam Nritta repertories feature the
Mrudangam and the Nattuvangam. Gataberaya and Talampota's contributions to Kandyan dance
performances are crucial. The fact that both Bharathanatyam and Kandyan dance use dance to tell
stories is one of their similarities. In the Bharathanatyam dance style, emotions are expressed, and Hindu
myths are told through body language, hand gestures, and facial expressions.
Keywords: Bharathanatyam , Kandyan Dance, Tradition , Sri Lanka, India

5
 IASAS 2023

A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF BHARATNATYAM AND SRI LANKAN

TRADITIONAL DANCES

Perera SAN

Department of Performing Arts, Sri Palee Campus,

University of Colombo, Sri Lanka
Abstract
India and Sri Lanka are well known as two Asian countries situated very close to each other and
maintaining good relationship. They exchange their ideas with sharing several fields specially religion,
culture and arts. History reveals that Sri Lankan dance culture has been influenced by Indian cultural
ideas and its effect is still visible in Sri Lankan dance traditions. Sri Lankan traditional dances originated
from the association of several traditional rituals and are classified into three main traditional forms
namely Kandyan dance, Low country dance and Sabaragamu dance. Generally, they began to differ
from each other in its techniques, music and adornments, but basically, they were all based on the same
ritual concept. This research study primarily focused on the comparative study between the dance
traditions of both Bharata Natyam and Sri Lankan traditional dances.This study used a qualitative
approach and data was collected through primary and secondary sources as well as interviews and
discussions with dance experts, observed and verified through site visits. Hence, this analyzed the many
similarities and differences between two dance traditions and it gives preference to the similar features
of both Bharatanatyam and Sri Lankan traditional dance. The results showed that many similar features
of dance teachniques, music and adornments can be found in both dance traditions.
Keywords: Bharatha Natyam, Kandyan dance, Low country dance, Sabaragamu dance, Sri Lanka

6
 IASAS 2023

SHORT ABSTRACTS
MEDIA AND JOURNALISM

7
 IASAS 2023

HOW SRI LANKAN PROFESSIONAL JOURNALISTS PRACTICE

MEDIA ETHICS ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Amila Lokumannage

Department of Mass Media, Sri Palee Campus, University of Colombo

amila@spc.cmb.ac.lk

Abstract
Media ethics is the one of the critical aspects of broadcasting media professionalism. The emerge and
uses of social media in the recent years, has rapidly developed to majority of journalists around Asia,
the energetic participation of the professional journalists in this technological innovation has widened
space and impacted ethical principles of journalism as a professional and raised the doubt to the public
on trusting the mainstream media journalists in Sri Lanka. This study discussed the findings on how far
the emerging of social media (Facebook) affect journalistic ethics observance ’truthfulness,
objectivism, balance and fairness and accuracy’ as important resources for journalism in the mass media
and how journalists employed social media in their job. In order to make data very clear, probability
and purposeful sampling techniques used on selected two television media organizations while
questionnaires distribute to them in order to examine the impacts of social media on their professional
ethical principles. This factual perspective it is very important to take special efforts to overcome
continuation effects of social media on mainstream media broadcasting journalism ethical principles
by emphasizing on in-house to avoid ethical ambiguity, training, more emphasis on newsroom ethics
and codes, and specific social media rules will be helpful. By taking these proposed proactive actions,
major broadcasting media journalists in Sri Lanka may eventually will flourish under the consideration
of ethical principles of professionalism.
Keywords: Social media, Mainstream media, Facebook, Media ethics, Sri Lanka

8
 IASAS 2023

BREAKING THE GLASS CEILING- MYTH OR REALITY

Balunkeswari Rout and Deepanjali Mishra
School of Humanities, KIIT (Deemed to be University), Bhubaneswar
Abstract
The term glass ceiling as a concept evolved in 1978 when Marilyn Loden, a writer and consultant coined
the term at the Women’s Exposition in New York. The US Department of Labour further studied this
phenomenon and its effects on women and minorities in the workforce. Glass ceiling is basically the
inconspicuous barrier that prevents the promotion of some individuals to higher ranks or positions
because of discrimination on certain grounds. It has always been proved in history time and again that
women have been suppressed by men in each and every stage of life. Despite that women have been
struggling to create a niche for themselves. They rise up to the occasion whenever the need arises. The
mythological texts mention that India has seen women breaking the glass ceiling in the form of
Draupadi, Sita and Savitri. We can see such examples right from the ancient age when women have
been preferred to rule the kingdom like Rani Laxmibai, Razia Sultan etc. Women were given education
at par with men during the Aryan period. Apart from these there were some rulers who gladly opined
to hand over their kingdom to their daughters. They have tried to break these glass ceilings and secure
a position for themselves in the society. Although with changing times, empowerment of women may
have come to the fore, however the entrenched biases finds its place in every other corporate and
professional sphere, thus making Glass ceiling a reality. Therefore this paper would make an analysis
on the concept of glass ceiling in Corporate Industries and how it has brought in a huge impact on
Management Sustainability.
Keywords: glass ceiling. discrimination, barrier, empowerment, sustainability

9
 IASAS 2023

UTILITY OF THE LEGAL APPROACH TO THE ROLE OF MEDIA

REGULATION FOR A REALISTIC APPROACH TO MEDIA
FREEDOM AND MEDIA DEMOCRACY
Dharmasiri PTKI* and Abeyrathna AMST

Department of Mass Media, Sri Palee Campus, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka
kalani@spc.cmb.ac.lk

Abstract
The purpose of this research is to study the utility of media regulation for a realistic approach to media
freedom and media democracy. The research problem was to study the utility of the legal approach to
the role of media regulation in a realistic approach to media freedom and media democracy.
Accordingly, the birth of this was a realistic approach to media freedom and media democracy that
positively influences the legal approach on the role of media regulation. The objectives of this research
were to conceptually and theoretically study about freedom and democracy, to investigate the
conceptual and theoretical background of the media by defining what communication is, to inquire
definitively about the regulation and legal approach, to explore the legal approach of media regulation
for the sake of media freedom and media democracy. Researching the usefulness of the legal approach
on the role of media regulation for a realistic approach to media freedom and media democracy, making
conclusions and recommendations about it, etc. Here, quantitative and qualitative mixed methods were
used as data collection methods. A group of two hundred journalism/mass communication
undergraduate students and a group of sixty journalism professionals were used as the sample of the
research and the data obtained after distributing the two questionnaires in the two samples were
analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) software. Six informants were used
for the interview. Some of the conclusions that can be reached through this research were that the legal
approach of the current regulation is not strong for a realistic approach to media freedom and media
democracy, and that a legal approach to media regulation should be strengthened for a realistic approach
to media freedom and media democracy, which has a positive effect in the media sector. That can be
done. Accordingly, as suggested in this research, the legal approach of media regulation should be
strengthened for a realistic approach to media freedom and media democracy
Keywords: Media, Press freedom, Media Democracy, Regulation, Law.

10
 IASAS 2023

CULTURAL EXCHANGE BETWEEN INDIA AND SRI LANKA:

THROUGH THE LENS OF FILMS
Puneet Yadav
Department of History, Kirorimal College
University of Delhi, India

Abstract
The deep association between India and Srilanka, which are neighboring countries, is thousands of years
old. This relationship has been constructed upon a legacy of intellectual, cultural, religious, and
linguistic links. They also share a mutual connection with Ramayan. Buddhism originated in India and
spread to Sri Lanka in the 3rd century BCE. At present, other religious traditions are practiced by people
in both countries. In terms of linguistics, Tamil is widely spoken in both countries, and Sanskrit has
influenced the development of languages like Sinhala and Pali in Sri Lanka. Indian classical music and
dance forms have made a significant impact on Sri Lankan cuisine, while Indian architectural styles
have influenced the construction of ancient structures in Sri Lanka. Literary works from India and Sri
Lanka have been translated and shared between the two countries. The Indian film industry has
connected both sides emotionally and culturally. Hindi films have an immense following in Sri Lanka.
The Sri Lankan audience has experienced Indian culture, language, and storytelling. Hindi films have
a massive following in Sri Lanka. Sri Lankan actors and actresses have also made their mark in the
Indian film industry. Collaborative projects have been conducted between Indian and Sri Lankan
filmmakers. Television serials and shows have also gained popularity in Sri Lanka, influencing the
entertainment preferences of the local audience. This exposure has increased interest in Indian cinema
and its various aspects and has helped to promote cross-cultural understanding and appreciation.
Tourism and filming locations have also been favored for Bollywood films, and talent exchange has
been facilitated through collaborations between Indian and Sri Lankan actors, directors, and technicians.
Moreover, Film festivals and events have also been organized in Sri Lanka, providing a platform for
cultural exchange. Historical writing and filmmaking are political exercises as they represent the
perspective of the dominant powers. Overall, Hindi films have been essential in promoting cultural
exchange between India and Sri Lanka that help the geopolitical relations between both countries. This
paper firmly argues that the cultural exchange between India and Sri Lanka through Hindi films has
been a significant factor in fostering mutual understanding and appreciation of each other's cultures.
This study intends to methodically and critically explore how and to what extent soft power like cinema
has played a significant role in the cultural exchange between India and Sri Lanka. This paper concludes
by examining whether there is a connection between films shot in Sri Lanka, which help to promote Sri
Lanka's beautiful landscapes and boost tourism and the interconnectivity of South Asians.
Keywords: Film Tourism, Geopolitical Relations, Indian cinema, Soft Power

11
 IASAS 2023

SHORT ABSTRACTS
GEOGRAPHY

12
 IASAS 2023

TECHNOLOGIES AND PRACTICES FOR ADAPTING TRADITIONAL

FARMERS TO CLIMATE SMART AGRICULTURE (CSA) IN
SRI LANKA
Rathnayaka RMK1*, Rathnayake RMA, 2 and Kulathunga KMMM3
1, 2
Faculty of Graduate Studies, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka
3
Faculty of Graduate Studies, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka
sandeeprathnayaka@gmail.com

Abstract
This research examines Climate-Smart Agricultural (CSA) technologies and practices suitable for
mitigating the effects of a changing climate. The climate is a temporally and spatially varying
component, and human activities must adapt to these changes, with agriculture occupying a special
place. Sri Lanka's dry and intermediate zone is already facing the impacts of climate change.
Accordingly, the main objective of this research is to identify the techniques and practices implemented
by traditional farmers in adapting to CSA. The study area selected for this research is the
Samanalabedda Grama Niladhari Division of Siyambalanduwa Divisional Secretariat in the Monaragala
District. This study was conducted using the mixed method approach, utilizing both qualitative and
quantitative data. Primary data were collected through questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, and
field observations, while secondary data were gathered through the divisional secretariat reports,
national and international research papers, climate and CSA reports, books, magazines, online
resources, and 1:50,000 digital maps. The identified CSA techniques and practices in the area include
roof water harvesting, strict adherence to seasonal climate forecasts and weather advisory services, crop
diversification, cultivation of vegetables in paddy fields, use of climate-smart crops, construction of
agro-wells and tube wells, tank boundaries demarcation, mulching, land preparation before the rainy
season, and desilting of the lake. As a result, CSA can be identified as a successful measure to reduce
the impact of the changing climate on agriculture and its effects on food security in the area.
Keywords: Adaptation, Climate Change, Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA), Technologies and
Practices, Traditional Farmers, Sri Lanka

13
 IASAS 2023

IMPACT OF VOID GEOMETRY OF A DESIGNED LANDSCAPE ON

HUMAN MODERATE BEHAVIORAL PATTERNS
Dahanayake UPGMB

Department of Architecture, Faculty of Architecture,

University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka
maheshdase@gmail.com

Abstract
This study explores the influence of void geometry on human moderate behavioural patterns within
designed landscapes. While voids are often associated with "nonexistence," spatially they become
active spaces engaging human activity. The research problem aims to investigate whether void
geometry affects human moderate behaviour. The hypothesis suggests that it does. Two consciously
designed spaces, Lunuganga and Sigiriya, were selected for the study. The analysis involved examining
void geometry through plans and section elevations, utilizing gestalt and segmentation theories.
Concurrently, human moderate behaviours were observed in these spaces. The study found a significant
relationship between void geometry and human moderate behaviours, confirming the hypothesis.
Spaces with similar moderate behavioural patterns shared comparable characteristics in their void
spaces. The research highlights the importance of considering void geometry in shaping human
behaviour within designed landscapes. Designers can use this knowledge to create spaces that promote
specific behavioural outcomes. Future research could explore additional variables, such as colour and
materials, and investigate the influence of social contexts on the relationship between void geometry
and human behaviour, potentially leading to the development of design theories based on these findings.
Keywords: Void Geometry, Human Behaviour, Landscape Architecture, Spatial Analysis, Behavioural
Patterns

14
 IASAS 2023

SEDIMENTARY CHARACTERISTICS AND HEAVY MINERAL

ABUNDANCE IN THE BACKSHORE REGION OF PULMODDAI
BEACH - A MONSOONAL AND GEOMORPHOLOGICAL FOCUS
Gunawardana, AVUB,1 Wickramasooriya A,2 Balasooriya NWB,3 and Sami M4
1
Postgraduate Institute of Science, University of Peradeniya
2
Department of Geography, University of Peradeniya
3
Department of Geology, University of Peradeniya
4
Department of Geology, Minia University

Abstract
Pulmoddai mineral sand beach is located on the northeast coast of Sri Lanka and is known for its rich
deposits of minerals, including ilmenite, rutile, zircon, and monazite. The beach is approximately 9
kilometers long and the width is about 100m. The heavy sands deposit is estimated to hold around six
million tonnes. On average, it consists of 70-72 % ilmenite, 8-10 % zircon, 8 percent %, 0.3 % monazite
and Replenishment occurs during the northeast monsoon (Jayawardhane, 2014). This research aims to
elucidate the nature and properties of sediments in the Backshore geomorphological zone by employing
advanced grain size and statistical analytical techniques. Here, 18 samples were collected from the
backshore region, covering the entire length of the deposit as representing both the northeast and
southwest monsoons. The Heavy Liquid Separation method was occupied for determining the Total
Heavy Mineral abundance (THM). Sieve analysis method was used to separate different sediment
quantities and analyzed using GRADISTAT version 8.0 software. The statistical formulae and
descriptive terminologies proposed by folk and ward (1957) were occupied for calculating and defining
grain size parameters such as mean, standard deviation, skewness and kurtosis (Blott & Pye, 2001). The
samples of South-west (SW) and North-east (NE) monsoonal periods show fine to very fine,
moderately sorted to moderately well sorted, coarse skewed - very coarse skewed to symmetrical and
platykurtic in nature. The average total heavy mineral content (THM) is 28.2% during the SW and
32.6% during the NE monsoon period.
Keywords: Backshore, Geomorphology, Heavy minerals, Monsoons

15
 IASAS 2023

THE CONTRIBUTION OF THE CLASSIC ERA TO THE

DEVELOPMENT OF MODERN GEOGRAPHICAL THOUGHTS
Gunawardana, AVUB
Postgraduate Institute of Science, University of Peradeniya

Abstract

The classical period of Greece and Rome is widely recognized as a time of great advancements in the
development of geographical ideas. One of the significant contributions of this era was the creation of
accurate maps that depicted the physical features of the world. These maps were based on the
observations and measurements of explorers and played a crucial role in not only providing a precise
representation of the world but also in understanding the shape and size of the Earth. The classical
period also influenced the emergence of new theories about the structure and organization of the world.
Aristotle, one of the greatest philosophers of the classical era, proposed the geocentric model of the
universe. He suggested that the Earth was at the centre of the universe with the sun, moon, and planets
revolving around it. These ideas helped lay the foundation for modern astronomy and geology. In
addition to maps and theories the classical era saw the emergence of new methods of exploration and
travel. The use of advanced navigation techniques such as the astrolabe and compass enabled the Greeks
and Romans to engage in extensive exploration of the world. This led to the discovery of new lands and
territories. Furthermore, the classical era contributed to the emergence of new concepts related to
human geography. The Greeks and Romans were interested in studying the relationships between
humans and the environment. They developed the concept of environmental determinism, which posits
that the physical environment has a significant impact on human behaviour and development. Primary
and secondary sources such as historical texts, philosophical works, and contemporary academic
publications, were used to obtain relevant information about the influence of the classical era on modern
geographical thought. Qualitative data analysis was conducted through the descriptive approach. In
conclusion, the contributions made by the classical era significantly influenced the development of
geographical ideas. These contributions range from the creation of accurate maps to the development
of new theories and ideas, laying the foundation for the modern discipline of Geography. The classical
era continues to shape our understanding of the world today.

Keywords: Classical Era, Descriptive Approach, Geographical Ideas

16
 IASAS 2023

COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF INVASIVE ALIEN FLORA SPECIES

IN URBAN WETLAND HABITATS OF WESTERN PROVINCE; USING
GEO-SPATIAL ANALYSIS, SRI LANKA
Dissanayaka, HMS
Department of Geography,
Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka
hmsandamalidissanayaka519@gmail.com

Abstract

Invasive Alien Flora Species (IAFS) spread quickly, and they are the second most significant threat to
biodiversity after habitat destruction (IUCN 2020). In Sri Lanka, a number of wetlands have high
biodiversity. Invasive Alien species are organisms that cause ecological or economic harm in a new
environment where they are not native. The main objective of this study was to identify invasive flora
species within selected wetland areas in Western Province. Diyasaru Wetland Park, Beddagana Wetland
Park, and Bellanwila Aththidiya Wetland Park (sanctuary) were selected as the study areas. The line
transect surveys were used for sampling from 0800 h to 1100 h and 1500 h to 1800 h time intervals,
from March 4th to July 1st, 2021, selecting three days per week. Visual observations and photographs
were used in species identification. The GPS surveying technique was used to track the exact spread
areas of IAFS at each location and map the distribution of IAFS using GIS (version 10.8) Software.
Hotspot analysis was used to determine the clustering of Invasive Aline Species (IAFS); Kernel density
was calculated to identify the density of IAFS distribution, and Inverse Distance Weighted (IDW) was
used to measure IAFS values surrounding the prediction location maps within the parks. A checklist of
IAFS was prepared, and a total of 29 species belonging to 17 families were recorded. Pond Apple
(Annona glabra) has covered most of the land areas of the Bellanwila-Aththidiya and Beddagana
Wetland Parks, while Common Water Hyacinth (Pontederia crassipes) was the most recorded IAFS in
Diyasaru Wetland Park. These IAFS are harmful to the ecosystem; they cannot be eliminated at once
without stable solutions to protect and conserve these wetlands. IAFS are rapidly increasing their
distribution by expanding and damaging native plants and ecosystems, and establishing a proper
mechanism for sustainable control of them is highly recommended.

Keywords: IAFS, Urban Wetland, Western Province, Mapping, Biodiversity

17
 IASAS 2023

SHORT ABSTRACTS
LANGUAGE/ LITERATURE AND LINGUISTIC STUDIES

18
 IASAS 2023

ASIAN FEMININE IDENTITY IN THE VISUAL POETRY OF

KALIDASA
Subashani UWN
Department of Sinhala, Faculty of Humanities, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka
nadeeshasuba1996@gmail.com
Abstract
MahaKavi Kalidasa is known as a creator who left an indelible name in the Sanskrit drama tradition.
Many of the designs of this designer, who is recognized as having lived in the centuries 473-472 AD,
are admired even today. Kumarasambhavaya, ritu Sanhara and Meghadutha are some of them.
Malavikagnimitra, Vikramovarshiya, and Abhijnana Shakuntala are considered in the category of
Kalidasaʾs visual poetry. The research aims to reflect the Asian female identity characteristics that are
evident in Kalidasa's visual poetry. Kalidasa based his visual poems on Hindu deities and ancient
stories. But Kalidasa did not act to use the inspiration of the original works and the negative
characteristics of the female characters that are revealed in them. He wanted to show that women are
the ones who deserve sympathy. By vividly recreating the various stages of life and feminine nature,
Kalidasa was keen to make the audience understand the hardships of their life's journey through a
penetrating insight into womanhood. His motivation is best highlighted through the visual poems
Malavikagnimitra, Vikramovarshiya, and Abhijnana Shakuntala. Therefore, the study focuses only on
the female characters in the previously mentioned visual poems. The study focuses on Kalidasa made
efforts to portray female characters in a moderate manner, not limited to the depiction of only the
weaknesses revealed by female nature. As the primary source of this study, the copies of the Sinhala
versions of visual poems Malavikagnimitra, Vikramorvasiya, and Abhijnana Shakuntala are taken. The
secondary sources are Kalidasa’s visual poems and research articles and theses by various people on
femininity. Finally, it is clear that the Asian female identity characteristics of Kalidasa's visual poems
are evident and that the audience has succeeded in making the audience life in it by self-identifying the
Kalidasa's femininity. It can be concluded that female characteristics such as limitations, tolerance,
motherhood, and loyalty are subtly evident in the characters of Kalidasa's visual poems.
Keywords: Abhijnana Shakuntala, Asiatic, Kalidasa, Malavikagnimitra, Visual Poetry,
Vikramorvasiya, Womanhood

19
 IASAS 2023

ASPECTS OF LINGUISTIC SEXISM IN HEDGES AND FILLERS OF HINDI

Perera WUP

Department of Hindi Studies,

Faculty of Humanities, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka
udeshikap@kln.ac.lk

Abstract
Male-female counterparts creates their own subcultures within a main culture of particular language to
denote their identity as femininity or unfemininity. Since women are dependent, deficient, and
powerless creatures in most cultures especially in Indian subcontinent, their languages represent their
deficiency of power access using polite linguistic forms. Hedges and fillers are a kind of polite linguistic
forms of a language where someone who has not access to use swearing. This research is designed to
distinguish aspects of sexism of those hedges and fillers in Hindi as a feature of women’s language with
the purpose of identifying women’s linguistic subculture of Hindi language with special reference to
the discourses of main male female characters of the Hindi film Queen. This research aims at identifying
the way how hedges and fillers in Hindi reflect and reinforce gender roles, stereotypes, and societal
attitudes toward gender through the content analysis of purposively sampled discourses of the Hindi
film Queen by Vikas Bahl based on the qualitative inductive research approach with the purpose of
recognizing the importance of language use and its impact on perception and thought which can help
pave the way for future research on the topic and more inclusive and gender-neutral communication by
combating linguistic sexism in hedges and fillers.
Keywords: Inclusivity, Gender role identity, Gender Stereotypes, Hedges and Fillers, Linguistic sexism

20
 IASAS 2023

PREVENTIVE POTENTIAL OF PRATIMARSHA NASYA: A

COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF AYURVEDA TEXTS AND
CONTEMPORARY LITERATURE
Attanayake AMP1*, Somarathna KIWK2 and Rohini NVP2
1
Former Medical Officer, Sri Lanka Ayurveda Drugs Corporation, Sri Lanka.
2
Faculty of Indigenous Medicine, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka.
dr.pushpika@gmail.com

Abstract
In today's contemporary world, where maintaining good health and preventing diseases is a challenge,
Ayurveda offers valuable solutions. Nasya, the administration of oils or medications through the nasal
passages, is one such approach. Pratimarsha Nasya (PN) is a simple and accessible method of Nasya,
and it can be performed at any time of the day and throughout the year, making it highly convenient for
individuals of all age groups. This method involves applying two drops of oil into the nostrils and
provides similar benefits as more complex Nasya procedures. PN is known as the best method for
eliminating and alleviating vitiated Dosha from the upper clavicular area, and balancing Kapha Dosha
making it a powerful practice for promoting overall wellbeing. It directly influences the sensory organs,
giving it a unique therapeutic advantage. The head being a vital organ, nose is considered as the gateway
to the head; "Nasahi shiraso dvaram, " Regular practice of PN prevents headaches, torticollis, rhinitis,
etc., nourishes, and rejuvenates the sensory organs. This research aims to conduct a comprehensive
literature study on the significant health benefits of PN. The study would involve an extensive review
of Ayurveda texts, and contemporary literature to gather evidence supporting the health benefits of PN.
Traditional texts indicate several benefits of daily PN practice at specific times. Practicing PN after
exercise provides the benefit of relieving fatigue, exertion, sweating, and body stiffness. Recent
research studies have shown positive outcomes of PN for various health issues as alopecia, allergic
rhinitis and many more. Anutaila or any suitable oil can be used for PN. These findings highlight the
preventive aspects of PN and contribute to the existing evidence supporting its inclusion as a preventive
therapy in primary healthcare service.
Keywords: Nasya, Pratimarsha Nasya, Anutaila, Primary healthcare

21
 IASAS 2023

A STUDY OF THE INSTRUMENT CATEGORY “ĀTATAVITATA” IN

THE PAṂCATŪRYA CLASSIFICATION: WITH SPECIAL
REFERENCE TO ANCIENT SRI LANKAN PĀLI AṬṬHAKATHĀ AND
ṬĪKĀ
Pathirana PDM
Department of Fine Arts, Faculty of Arts, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
dilanjana.mp@gmail.com
Abstract
The Paṃcatūrya classification, consisting of five categories of musical instruments - Ātata, Vitata,
Ātatavitata, Ghana, and Suṣira - is defined in ancient Sri Lankan Pāli texts such as Aṭṭhakathā and
Ṭīkā. However, the category of “Ātatavitata” remains ambiguous, causing complications for researchers
attempting to interpret the Paṃcatūrya classification. The main questions surrounding this instrument
category are which instruments it encompasses and what the characteristics of those instruments are.
Previous studies by music scholars unanimously suggest that it represents a combination of taut
membranes and strings, with some emphasizing the need for further research. The objective of this
study is to analyze previously unexamined Pāli Aṭṭhakathā and Ṭīkā texts which elucidate the
Paṃcatūrya classification. Employing textual analysis and, comparative analysis as the primary
methodology, this study primarily relies on ancient Pāli Aṭṭhakathā and Ṭīkā texts from the
Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa periods in Sri Lanka. Notably, the Līnatthappakāsana Saṃyutta
Nikāyaṭṭhakathā Ṭīkā and Madhuratthavilāsinī Buddhavaṃsa Aṭṭhakathā exemplify the “Vīṇā” as an
instance of the “Ātatavitata” instrument category. Additionally, the Papañcasūdanī Majjhima
Nikāyaṭṭhakathā, Līnatthappakāsana Majjhima Nikāyaṭṭhakathā Ṭīkā, and Vaṃsatthappakāsinī
Mahāvaṃsa Ṭīkā demonstrate the “Paṇava drum.” Henceforth, it is inferable that both the instruments
referred to as the “Vīṇā” and the “Paṇava drum” fall within “Ātatavitata” instrument category. In
accordance with ancient depictions of instruments found in texts like Bharata's Nāṭyaśāstra, the
essential common feature exhibited by these two instruments is their capacity to generate distinct tones
through the adjustment of string tension. Consequently, the previous scholarly assertion positing that
instruments in this particular category encompass a fusion of taut membranes and strings can no longer
be definitively corroborated, and it can be determined that this is based on the sound-producing
technique.
Keywords: Ātatavitata, Paṃcatūrya classification, Paṇava drum, Pāli Aṭṭhakathā and Ṭīkā, Vīṇā

22
 IASAS 2023

मध्य स्वर ‘अ’ /ǝ/ के ववतरण का तुलनात्मक अध्ययन

(स हिं ली तथा सहिंदी भाषाओं के अधार पर)
A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF DISTRIBUTION OF CENTRAL
VOWEL ‘अ’ /Ǝ/
(BASED ON SINHALA AND HINDI LANGUAGES)
Withanage DDD

Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka

dwithanage8821@gmail.com

Abstract

मानव के द्वारा अपने ववचारों का आदान-प्रदान करने के उपलक्ष्य में भाषा का प्रयोग ककया जाता है, उ भाषा की
नींव वाग-यिंत्र के द्वारा उच्चररत भाषा-ध्ववनयों े बनायी गयी है। भाषा-ध्ववनयों के उच्चारण में कभी वनिःश्वा वाग-
यिंत्र के कक ी-न-कक ी उच्चारण अवयव पर अवरुद्ध हो जाता है, कभी वनिःश्वा के अवरुद्ध करने में कक ी भी उच्चारण-
अवयव का योगदान नहीं वमलता। वनिःश्वा के कहीं पर वबना अवरोध के उच्चररत ध्ववनयों में े मध्य स्वर, अपना
ववतरण भाषा के अनु ार अवस्तत्व बना लेता है। इ पररवस्थवत में मध्य स्वर का ववतरण सहिंदी तथा स िंहली भाषाओँ
के आधार पर ववचार-ववमर्श करते हुए दोनों भाषाओं में प्रयुक्त मध्य स्वर के प्रयोग में घरित मानता और अ मानता
का तुलनात्मक अध्ययन करना इ र्ोध कायश की मुख्य अवभलाषा है। भाषा-वैज्ञावनकों के द्वारा प्रत्येक भाषा में उच्चररत
भाषा-ध्ववनयों का ववचार-ववमर्श ध्ववन-ववज्ञान तथा ध्ववन-ववचार के व द्धािंतों के आधार पर ककया जा रहा है।
ाथ-ही- ाथ आधुवनक भाषाववज्ञान के आगमन के ाथ- ाथ भाषा-ध्ववनयों का ववचार-ववमर्श दो या दो े अवधक
भाषाओं के आधार पर तुलनात्मक रूप े ककया जाने की ओर भाषा वैज्ञावनक उन्मुख हो रहे हैं। इ पररवस्तवथ में
स िंहली अथा सहिंदी जै ी एक ही भाषा पररवार के दो भाषाओं के बीच ध्ववन-ववचार के व द्धािंतों के आधार पर इ
प्रकार का तुलनात्मक र्ोध-कायश ककया जाना अत्यिंत अहम् है। प्रस्तुत र्ोध-कायश के वलए प्राथवमक ामग्री के रूप में
सहिंदी तथा स िंहली भाषा-ववज्ञानों के ाथ करते हुए ाक्षात्कारों का प्रायोग ककया जानेवाला है तथा वद्वतीयक ामग्री
के रूप में सहिंदी तथा स िंहली भाषा-वैज्ञावनकों के द्वारा कृ त ववषय-बद्ध र्ोध, र्ास्त्रीय लेख-आलेक तथा पवत्रकाएँ
आकद का प्रयोग ककया जानेवाला है। प्रस्तुत र्ोध-कायश प्रबिंवधत ामवग्रयों के गुणों के आधार पर िंभव होगी तथा
ाथ-ही- ाथ इन ामवग्रयों के ववश्लेषण में उनके पररमाणात्मक तत्वों पर भी बल कदया जाएगा।

Keywords: ध्ववन-ववचार, ववतरण, स िंहली, स्वर, सहिंदी

23
 IASAS 2023

प्रेमचिंद की कहानी कला में व

िं द
े नों का अनछु ए पहलू का ववश्लेषण:
STORY CRAFT OF PREMCHAND: AN ANALYSIS OF UNIQUE
EMOTIONS AND SENSIBILITY

Rathanayaka RMPSM

Faculty of Science, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka

bs19821984@gmail.com

Abstract

प्रेमचंद दु निया के कुछ महाि कथाकार ं में से एक हैं । महाि सानहत्य कालातीत ह ते हैं । इिकी रचिाएँ हमे शा
प्रासंनिक ह ती हैं । समय के साथ उिकी प्रासां निकता कम िहीं ह ती। आज़ादी पूर्व के रचिाकार प्रेमचंद आज भी
प्रासंनिक क् ं हैं ? इस प्रश्न का उत्तर है उिकी रचिाओं में अनभव्यक्त संर्ेदिा सार्वभौनमक और कालातीत है । यह
दे खिा नदलचस्प है नक प्रेमचंद के कथा सानहत्य में अनभव्यक्त संर्ेदिा से आज भी जु ड़ क् ं जाते है ? ऐसे में प्रेमचंद
की संर्ेदिा तकिीकी क समझिा नदलचस्प ह िा। इस संदभव में निम्न न ंदुओं पर नर्चार करिा प्रासंनिक ह िा।

 कथािक और पात् ं का अिे क संदभव

 जीर्ि क संर्ेदिाओं के साथ तादात्मक िािा
 नर्शे षण ं की दु लवभता
 पररस्तिनथ और कथािक संर्ेदिा व्यक्त करिे का अिे क अर्यर् ं

प्रेमचंद के कहािी कला में संर्ेदिाओं के अिछु ए पहलू का नर्श्लेषण करते हुए हम दे खते हैं नक उिकी कहानिय ं
में संर्ेदिा का व्यापक और कालातीत रूप है । प्रेमचंद के पात् ं िे केर्ल कथािक और प्ल ट के ीच सामं जस्य
िाते हैं स्ति उिकी कहानियाँ संर्ेदिा की ुनियाद पर अपिे जीर्ि की भार्िाएँ ुिी जाती हैं । प्रेमचंद की
कहािी कला में नर्श्लेषण की दु भवलता ह ती है क् नं क उिकी संर्ेदिा नर्िार शील और व्यापक ह ती है । उिकी
कहानिय ं में सहािु भूनत और समािु भूनत के ीच एक मतभेद ह ता है । प्रेमचंद के पात् ि केर्ल दू सर ं के दु ुःख के
प्रनत सहािु भूनत नदखाते हैं , स्ति उिकी कहानिय ं में र्े समािु भूनत के माध्यम से पाठक ं क भी अपिे पात् के दु ुःख
क समझिे की प्रेरणा दे ते हैं । प्रिु त अध्ययि में प्रेमचंद की कहािी कला की संर्ेदिा का अिु संधात्मक नर्श्लेषण
प्रिु त करते हुए यह प्रामानणक नकया िया है नक प्रेमचंद की कहािी कला में संर्ेदिा के पहलू नकतिे नर्िार और
अद् भु त है । प्रेमचंद की कहािी कला का नर्श्लेषण अ तक अिे क दृनिय ं से ह चुका है । नकन्तु प्रेमचंद की कहािी
कला का एक अिछु आ पहलू है नजसे अ तक उिकी तकिीक की नर्नशिता के संदभव में दे खिे की क नशश कम
हुई है । अत: इस अध्ययि में प्रे मचंद की कहािी कला में संर्ेदिा के अिछु ए पहलू की संरचिा, स्वभार्, िुण और
नर्नशिता का नर्श्लेषण नकया िया है । प्रिु त अध्ययि के नलए प्राथनमक सामग्री के रूप में प्रेमचंद के द्वारा रनचत
चुनिं दा कहानिय ं का प्रय ि नकया िया है और नद्वतीय सामग्री के रूप में प्रेमचंद पर नकये िये नर्षय द्ध श ध,
पुिकें, ले ख-आले ख आदी का प्रय ि नकया है । यह अध्ययि नहं दी जित की ही िहीं श्री लं काई समाज की प्रिनतशील
नर्चार धरा, िनत, और जीर्ि के नलए प्रेरणा स्त्र त एर्ं उपय िी सान त ह िा।

Keywords: पात् और कथािक, प्रेमचंद, प्रेमचंद नक कहािी कला, संर्ेदिाएँ , सहािु भूनत

24
 IASAS 2023

ENGLISH WRITING IN SOUTH ASIA: INTERNAL COLONIALISM

AND THE POLITICS OF REPRESENTATION
Beauty Yadav
Department of English, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
Abstract

English writing experiences imbalance of literary acquisition within South Asia. A very narrowly
propounded exclusivity threatens the representation of region-specific heterogeneity under the garb of
‘literary’. Indic-centric hegemony replaces the Western criteria of excellence to add new dimensions to
previously established standards of canonicity in the realm of English Writing. Rather, what’s often
being experienced is the dialectic of who gets accepted literarily and who is literarily censored.
Unfortunately, English writing within South Asia is caught in an unavoidable procrastination to result
into an incomplete literary map of South Asia as a region. Even if the imbalance is analyzed
humanistically or scientifically, it attunes to the segregation of a few member nations as the literary
subalterns. The study primarily aims to map the anomalies responsible and accountable for the
imbalance in the literary acquisition of English Writing within South Asia. It aims to caution against
the narrow understanding of South Asia as India, Pakistan or Sri Lanka to peripheralize the rest into
literal/literary inconsequentiality. The methodology interrogates the formation of an urban-power elite
as a group conspiring to mar the literary inclusivity of the English writing within and even beyond South
Asia as a region. While an uneven growth of national identities is hurriedly inferred as a responsible
factor, but in actuality the impoverished growth of a nation or national identities has absolutely minimal
interference with the qualitative outcome in respect of English Writing. Although, the group in
dominance certainly does not involve into settlement to the other’s territory but their hyper-visible
English Writing settles to capture the territory to segregated the ‘other’ in the realm of literary. Post-
colonial has been experiencing a conscious growth of English writers appearing inclined to work
towards literary interconnectedness of South Asian nations. Their attempts have grown manifold in
quest to counter the prevailing conditions of literary colonialism oppressive via the politics of group
formation. The politics of representation in the realm literary curtails the mutual growth of knowledge
production through practice in South Asia.

Keywords: English Writing, Internal Colonialism, Literary, subaltern, Politics, Representation

25
 IASAS 2023

LINGUISTIC DIVERSITY AND THE HEGEMONY OF ENGLISH IN

SOUTH ASIA
Upendra Kumar

Department of Hindi, Jharkhand Central University, Ranchi, India

Abstract
The bleak aftermath of the colonial rule affects the growth of linguistic diversity in
South Asia. The bias against the native languages is, as a practice regressive. Nations
within South Asia do endeavour to proclaim a state of collective ownership of their
linguistic dexterity; but the persistent polarity between the native owners of the
language and the canon centric practitioners of English questions the seriousness of
the intent itself. Moreover, the need to work towards the wellbeing of South Asia as a
region has contemporary relevance not only in the political perspectives, but also in
literary perspectives through which collectively responsibility can be taken to
monitor the growth and wellbeing of linguistic diversity. Unfortunately, a
systematically planned hegemonic pattern controls the realm of literary writing to
disown the writers in quest to belong to culturally diverse linguistic backgrounds of
South Asia. In postcolonial perspective it’s an anomaly and a concern to examine how literary
bias and linguistic marginalisation curtails linguistic diversity. Therefore, the research
attempts to examine how the foregrounded relevance of cultural concerns, identity
proclamations and region-specific ‘particularities’ embedded in the literary
representations call for to be rescued from the mire of literary oblivion. The
postcolonial literary writings in South Asia faces the paradox of having enormous
will to interrogate constraints but lacks vision to practise the same. Rather, the
affluent segment of English-centric Elite operates as pan-coloniser to marginalise the
writers preferring to write in native tongues or languages other than English.
The methodology aims to redefine the relevance of linguistic diversity in attempt to
safeguard the cultural diversity of member nations within South Asia. It also debates
how the undermined issues relevant and common to regional solidarity worsens the
alienation prevalent amongst the member nations. Moreover, the quest to disapprove
literary polarisation fails to counter the cyclone of literary consumerism. The
preconceived phobia, whether the writer is saleable or not, often works against the
growth of linguistic diversity in South Asia. Inadequate provisions to accommodate
linguistic diversity in literary representations results in the loss of cultural credibility
amongst the member nations. Thus, the exclusive elite writing in English obtain their
chance to impose as the centre to determine the future of the literary representations
from South Asia.
Keywords: Postcolonial, Linguistic Diversity, South Asia, English, Literature

26
 IASAS 2023

SOUTH ASIAN INTERCONNECTION IN MEDIEVAL INDIAN

LITERATURE IN PARTICULAR REFERENCE WITH HINDI SUFI
TRADITION
Kumud Ranjan Mishra

Department of Hindi, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India

kranajan@bhu.ac.in
Abstract

The nations of the South Asian region have been culturally connected for a very long time. There are
many historical as well as literary texts which confirm this idea. In Indian literature, Ramayana and
Mahabharata are the most well-known examples of this. Several places which have been mentioned in
these texts continue to exist today as cultural and historical monuments in the countries of South Asia.
For example, Gandhar and Takshshila which find their mention in Mahabharata, are situated in Sindh
and Rawalpindi provinces of Pakistan respectively. Similarly, in the Ramayana, one can find the
description of Sri Lanka and many such places.Many such places located in the South Asian
subcontinent have been described in the medieval literature of Hindi language. Some examples of which
include Bhont Pradesh (Bhutan), Nepal, and Sinhaldweep/Lanka (Sri Lanka). Jayasi's Padmavat,
Tulsidas' Ramcharitmanas, Osman's Chitravali etc. are some important books that talk a lot about this
region. Additionally, the sea and the journey to the sea are mentioned in each of the Sufi works for
which manuscripts have been found, including Chandayan, Mrigavati, and Madhumalati. We are aware
that the oceans are important in determining not just the geographical but also the political border of
India. Additionally, the development of marine channels improved India's commercial relationships
with surrounding islands, especially with Sri Lanka. As a result, including an account of a sea excursion
in this literature serves as a confirmation of the cultural tie. South Asia's cultural geography has been
represented by them. In particular, the Sufi Premakhyan poems.The aim of this research paper is to
explore the link between the South Asian geography which has been mentioned in medieval Indian
literature, particularly in Hindi texts. This research article will try to understand the geographic details
given in Padmavat and other such Sufi texts. This paper can assist in understanding the historical
relationships of South Asian nations via literature and culture.

27
 IASAS 2023

DIVERSIFYING UNITY: DEBATING A ‘NATIONAL’ LANGUAGE

FOR INDIA; SOME PERSPECTIVES FROM THE CONSTITUENT
ASSEMBLY DEBATES ON THE ISSUE OF NATIONAL LANGUAGE
Abhinav Mishra
Department of History, Sri Guru Nanak Dev Khalsa College
University of Delhi, Dev Nagar, India
abh5012@gmail.com

Abstract
Yoga as the indigenous knowledge for making South Asia more healthy and harmonious: With the special
reference to India and Sri Lanka. South Asia region comes under the sub-region of Asia consisting of the
Indo-Gangetic plain and peninsular India surrounded by Afghanistan and the Himalaya in North, the
Indian Ocean in South, Arabian ocean & Pakistan in West while Bay of Bengal in East. It includes the
countries of Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Pakistan, Nepal and Sri Lanka. Afghanistan and the Maldives are
often considered part of South Asia as well. This region is in the developing phase and in the process of
overcoming the challenges of degradation of environment, demand exceeding the supply and
demographical over pressure. But, this region is full of diversity and a depository of indigenous
knowledge because of its very long history of human civilization. Diversity is the sign of this region all
over the world as It has diversity in all aspects like biodiversity, natural diversity, diversity of flora and
fauna, social diversity, cultural diversity, etc. In the context of India and Sri Lanka, the diversity feature
is common to both. Both the Nations have very rich diversity whether it is natural or social. In this case,
diversity of indigenous knowledge is beneficial to both the Nations in which yoga is one of the best
indigenous knowledge which is boon for both the countries to share and utilize the benefits of this
indigenous knowledge. Yoga is an ancient science developed in India about 5000 years ago. The word
yoga is derived from the Sanskrit word 'Yuj'/Yujir which gives the meaning of union or combination of
mind, body and soul. But now, in modern day Yoga is being also used to combine the community, society
or even Nations for peace and prosperity. Initially the practice of yoga was started as a practice of a
spirituality but now, the contemporary. Practice of yoga is developed as a holistic approach to health and
personality development. From a health perspective, yoga is a scientific practice for the positive
development of physical, emotional, social and spiritual health. This indigenous knowledge is very useful
for both the Nations for their own sake as well as for the whole South Asian region. As now, global policy
makers also consider peace and harmony as requisite components for the development of a nation. Sri
Lanka is also a pluralistic community that represents the value of multicultural, multi-religious and multi-
ethnicities. Referencing the Sri Lanka national policy and comprehension framework of actions on
education for social cohesion and peace (2008) indicates Sri Lanka's application for peace building
through peace education. There is high global demand for utilizing yoga in peace education. In the context
of Sri Lanka, there is a more significant value in utilizing the yoga practice under peace education. Thus,
yoga is the indigenous knowledge or practice which is beneficial for both the Nations as well as for the
whole South Asia region. There is a need for mutual cooperation for more scientific research, revaluation
of existing classical literatures as well as re-institutionalization of the informal practices and knowledge
in formal and standard way. This article will explore the different dimensions of yoga and its application
as the indigenous knowledge which could be used in strengthening the bonding as well as peace building
in the South Asia region.
Keywords: official language, national language, Hindi, Hindustani, Constituent Assembly debates

28
 IASAS 2023

BENGALI SOUND SYMBOLISM AS A RESISTANCE AGAINST THE

POLITICAL IMPOSITION OF THE COLONIAL LANGUAGE
Souvik Sengupta and Shrestha Gudaba
Abstract
Since the dawn of history, India was gifted with cultural, social and ethnic richness. The linguistic
greatness serves as the epitome of our Indianness. The linguistic richness spread throughout India during
British rule and continued to be enlightened after independence, by the newly formed nations.
Colonialism goes beyond political and economic control of a foreign land. It takes over customs,
practices and language as well. The language of the colonisers is imposed owing to the nature of
exploitation that raises the coloniser’s culture to become dominant. Even in a large nation like India,
the Coloniser’s Effect expanded to the diverse Indian languages, slowly anglicising and pidginising
them while the native speakers moved towards the rulers' language. The expanse of land had favoured
the British, albeit the overwhelming numbers had softened their grip over the nation’s language. The
Political Imposition went to the extent where the linguistic and literary ban was imposed by the then
British government, and recently the Indian government has revived those banned pieces of art available
for all. Even under the threat of extinction, Bengal’s language thrived. It was peppered with English
parlance, yet, had not let go of its distinctive linguistic features. It included the use of distinct and often
nuanced Sound Symbolisms. This paper explores a genre-based study of prose produced during India’s
freedom struggle. The goal is to isolate sound symbolisms as a distinctive linguistic feature retained
before, during and post-freedom struggle despite the attempts to subdue native literature as a form of
colonial oppression. We shall provide a framework for our paper with a specific genre, a particularised
style of the Bengali language. This framework can be applied across other South Asian languages which
display instances of Sound Symbolism. We analysed our paper using Functionalist Stylistics.
Functionality relies on factors that are, to some extent, super linguistic in nature. For instance,
perception, social constraints, etc, are mostly subdued by individual or collective thoughts or practices.
The functionality directs towards the perception of the societal or personal function or dysfunction.
Patricia Canning (2014) has a similar view, “Language does not function in a vacuum - it does not ‘do'
or mean everything in and of itself”. Functionalist Stylistics primarily adheres to or rather forms the
bridge between context or situation and the function of language as a system, including social, cultural,
and political factors impacting language formation. Here, language formation deals with
Phonosemantic value thus, formulates depending on the context. The structural model of language
developed by functionalists, in a way, gives freedom to the variety of language used to select its
‘meaning potential’. Furthermore, it presents a scope to examine or study the other South Asian
languages and their similar resistance against the British imposition of English. Since, all the South
Asian countries, though have their unique diversity, are to some extent interconnected through their
resistance against the same colonial force and the way it values, preserves and retains their linguistic
uniqueness and heritage.
Keywords: Functional Stylistics, Linguistic Features, Phonosemantics, Political Imposition, Sound
Symbolism.

29
 IASAS 2023

SHORT ABSTRACTS
EDUCATION

30
 IASAS 2023

THE EFFECTIVE USE OF CONTEXT DEPENDENT MUSIC TO

IMPROVE EDUCATIONAL PATTERNS IN SRI LANKA
Abeysekara GGGL

Department of Music and Creative Technology,

Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences,
University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka
author@gmail.com

Abstract
In Sri Lanka, Indian music a history, spreading through migrations and cultural interactions. Terukkuttu
and Nadagam, both based on Indian music elements, had a significant impact on entertainment
preferences of Sri Lankans. However, with the arrival of Parsi theatre, featuring North Indian music,
Nadagam's popularity declined, giving rise to a new form called Nurthi. Both drama traditions are based
on Indian music. Indian music traditions has been divided into two mainstream appearances in medieval
(10-18th century) India, as South Indian music and North Indian music elements. Nadagam was
enriched with South Indian music whereas the Nurthi was with North Indian music. The popularity of
Indian music, which gained a lot of acclaim, has spread to Sri Lankan Secondary and tertiary institutions
as a subject to be studied. At present, both musical traditions are open for students to learn in
government schools and higher education institutes without racial barriers. Previous studies have shown
that South Indian music is taught by Tamil community, while North Indian music is preferred by
Sinhalese. This study explores what could be the reason North Indian music is less studied and chosen
by the Tamil community in Sri Lanka. Due to the lack of researches related to this study, available
resources are not given. This study employs cultural theories of preference formation and qualitative
methods to explore and to analyse the data gathered through literature survey and interviews, this study
will contribute new insights to future discourses on cultural and ethnic matters that may be relevant to
music preferences of humans.
Keywords: South Indian music, North Indian music, music preference.

31
 IASAS 2023

INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY IN

SRI LANKAN HIGHER EDUCATION
Ven. Kalubovitiyana Soratha

Department of Social Sciences and Comparative Studies,

Faculty of Language and Cultural Studies, Bhiksu university of Sri Lanka
sorathakalubovitiyana@gmail.com
Abstract

This Research paper Aim is to Identify the the impact of the information and communication
technology in Sri Lankan higher education sector. This highlights the current status of the impacts of
the information and communication technology (ICT) on higher education institutes like state
universities, private universities, campuses and etc. Computer technology and the internet started to
play a big major role in Sri Lanka in the early 2002s. So ICT gradually entered the education sector.
But the effect of ICT in higher education was dramatically increased from 2009 to 2013. Instead of
traditional teaching and learning methods, new technology was introduced into the Sri Lankan higher
education sector to produce undergraduates and graduates that can compete with the rapidly changing
world. Despite one's teaching and learning field, ICT is important to all. ICT is not only used for
academic tasks but also for administrative tasks in Sri Lankan higher education institutes. With all these
impacts, considerable challenges have been made in the higher education sector. Very few research
papers have been published under this topic but all of them statistically prove that ICT has made a huge
impact on the Sri Lankan higher education sector by giving both advantages and disadvantages to all
the stakeholders of both government and private higher education institutes.

Keywords: Education, Information and Communication, Teaching skills, Technology

32
 IASAS 2023

THE IMPACT OF GAME-BASED LEARNING AND INTERACTIVE

MULTIMEDIA LESSONS ON LEARNING SINHALA LETTERS FOR
STUDENTS WITH LEARNING DISABILITIES

Hulangamuwa HGCK

School of Information Communication Technology,

Nāgānanda International Institute for Buddhist Studies, Sri Lanka
chaamiusjp@gmail.com
Abstract

Learning disabilities, learning disorders, or learning difficulties are umbrella terms for a wide variety of
learning problems. Which is also refers to the same condition in the brain that causes problems
understanding or processing information. A learning disability is not a problem with intelligence or
motivation and students with learning disabilities aren’t dumb or lazy. Most of the students are just as
smart as normal students. Their brains are simply different than the other students, and this difference
effects how they receive and process information. Learning disabilities are sometimes called hidden
disabilities since they do not appear handicapped and are not readily apparent to others. As a result,
children with learning difficulties are often misinterpreted and accused of being clumsy or lethargic,
resulting in low confidence, and motivation. As a result of its impact on academic performance, most
affected children can experience long-term educational, societal, psychological, emotional, and financial
challenges. In special needs education, students with learning disabilities require intervention tools such
as a game-based learning approach to enhance their learning abilities. The design and development of an
effective game-based learning system for this type of learner need to consider their unique characteristics.
The research in this study aims to identify specific game elements that can be integrated into the framework
for learning by doing. For a gaming-based learning system to be effective, students with learning
disabilities need game elements that are tailored to their learning needs and characteristics. These elements
are needed for integration into the “අකුරු මිතුරු” (“Akuru Mithuru”) gaming application. By comparing
the results of pre-and post-tests conducted before and after installation of the “අකුරු මිතුරු”(“Akuru
Mithuru”) gaming system on the reading of letters and syllables, we determined the effectiveness of the
game based learning system. The findings indicate that these innovative instructional approaches have a
significant positive impact on the learning outcomes and engagement of students with learning disabilities.
Through the implementation of game-based learning and interactive multimedia lessons, students
demonstrated improved letter recognition, phonetic understanding, and overall proficiency in Sinhala letter
acquisition. The use of gamified elements and interactive multimedia components effectively captured
students' attention, motivation, and active participation in the learning process. Moreover, the multisensory
nature of these interventions catered to diverse learning styles, allowing students to engage with the
material in a more personalized and meaningful manner. The findings of this research hold significant
implications for educators, policymakers, and curriculum developers in the field of special education.
Incorporating game-based learning and interactive multimedia lessons into the curriculum can offer an
inclusive and engaging approach to teaching Sinhala letters for students with learning disabilities.
Furthermore, these interventions can contribute to a more positive and enjoyable learning experience,
fostering students' self-confidence and motivation.

Keywords: Learning Disabilities, Game Based Learning, Learning Approaches, Dyslexic Students, web
based gaming applications

33
 IASAS 2023

THE IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON STUDENTS’ ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE

-A CASE OF UNIVERSITY OF THE VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS

Kodagoda KPDSL

School of Information Communication Technology,

Nāgānanda International Institute of Buddhist Studies, Sri Lanka
lasikakodagoda26@gmail.com
Abstract

Social media has emerged as the new technology trend in past few decades. People are connected via
these platforms which have both positive and negative effects. This study is conducted to study the
influence of Social Media on the academic purposes of students in the University of QRS. Five research
questions were raised to investigate the influence of social media to academic performance, students’
exposure to social media and how it affects the academic achievements, the relationship between the
usage of social media and age, gender. WhatsApp, Imo, Facebook, YouTube and Instagram were used
as the major social media platforms in this study. To collect the adequate data, a descriptive survey was
developed. The university of Visual and Performing Arts consists about 2189 full time undergraduates
and participants were took part from three faculties such as the Faculty of Music, Faculty of Dance and
Drama and Faculty of Visual Arts in the study. The simple random sampling technique was used to
select a sample of 378 undergraduates. The survey titled Social Media and Academic Performance of
Students Questionnaire (SMAAPOS) consisted of a four-point Likert Scale: Strongly Agree, Agree,
Disagree and Strongly Disagree. The demographic data were analysed using the descriptive statistics
of frequency counts and percentage while inferential statistics of Chi-square (x2) was used in testing the
research Questions. According to the findings, majority of students who study at the University of the
Visual and Performing Arts, are using social media spending a considerable amount of time on it.
Further, according to the findings it is clear that the gender and age influence the usage of social media.
Also, the rate of exposure shows affects the usage of social media. However, researcher also suggests
that social media can be recognized as a positive influencer in ways which Social Networking Sites
(SNSs) should be expanded and new pages should be created to enhance academic activities to avoid
setbacks in the students’ academic performance. Further, responsible people should limit the usage of
social media and they can take several steps in terms of technology to limit the over usage of social
media. (Ex: blocking the access to several platforms). This will create a balance between social media
and academic studies of students.

Keywords: Academic Performance, Internet, Influence, Social Media, Undergraduates

34
 IASAS 2023

MADRASAS AS CITES OF KNOWLEDGE IN COLONIAL INDIA: A STUDY OF

KNOWLEDGE DISSEMINATION AND REFORMATION IN THE ISLAMIC
EDUCATION SYSTEM IN THE 18-19TH CENTURIES

Akriti Kumar

Zakir Husain Centre for Educational Studies,

Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India

Abstract

Colonial modernity initiated a serious engagement of religious orders with education, pedagogy and
curricula in the Muslim education system in India in the eighteenth century. There are particular
concepts and categories of colonial analysis which have shaped and continued to persevere in much of
the debate on the reform of the Madrasas in modern Indian education system. What these categories
imply can be at variance, quite distinctly for different people who are occupied in or affected by the
debate, as does the very connotation of reform. However, all modern debates about the reform not only
presume these categories, the problem of reform of Madrasas also raises elemental questions about
what religious education consists of; about the practicality of such edification; and about the position
of religion in the Muslim social order. The current study will try to find that how the proposals towards
reform, no less than the resistance to them, have cultivated views of religion as occupying a discrete
arena in society through various times and how knowledge generation has been affected by it. The study
will try to chart the status of education as well as knowledge dissemination in relation to the changes
brought in the field of religious education system by commenting on the changes and stagnation in the
traditional Islamic education system through the colonial period. A variety of efforts towards reforming
the Madrasa were undertaken during this period, both by British administrators and by Muslim
reformers; and attempts too, have been made to reform Madrasas. Common differences between
religious and secular learning and knowledge production continued to be cited in colonial studies of the
Madrasas, pretty much as in that of other educational organizations. Even in institutions identified as
religious, British policy favored the patronage of secular learning. Thus indigenous religious schools
were entitled to a grant from the Government as long as they taught secular subjects in an acceptable
manner. This peculiarity will be a major theme of the discussion on the reform of the Madrasas as
education was used as a tool to maintain balance between two different time frames i.e. traditional
ancient system vs. modern western system. Furthermore, the study will explore the significance of these
educational enterprises and of the reactions they have evoked in influencing not only the challenging
ideas of the Madrasas itself but also some of the ways in which Islamic education has come to be
analyzed and positioned in the society as well as the way such reformative ideas are intertwined and
have travelled through time. The study will also focus on cultural identities formed through the changes,
reforms and development of the Dars-e-Nizami curriculum, and how the institutions of eminence of
Muslim education have dealt with the transformations along with time.

35
 IASAS 2023

SHORT ABSTRACTS
PSYCHOLOGY & MEDICAL SCIENCES

36
 IASAS 2023

CLINICAL APPLICATION OF COMPLEMENTARY AND

ALTERNATIVE THERAPIES IN CONTEMPORARY HEALTH CARE:
A REVIEW
Randika Perera

Department of Indigenous Health Sciences

Faculty of Indigenous Health Sciences and Technology
Gampaha Wickrmarachchi University of Indigenous Medicine, Sri Lanka
randika@gwu.ac.lk
Abstract

Every individual cope with several health challenges. These health challenges are addressed by Western
medicine which is developed with a scientific foundation and evidence-based research. However, over
three decades there is a growing demand for complementary and alternative therapies which are known
as CAM interventions. This therapeutic approach has been developed based on Eastern medicine.
Moreover, presently CAM therapies are utilized as a clinical intervention with evidence-based practice
in health care. Therefore, this study has explored the contemporary prospects of CAM interventions in
health care services and the contribution of Indian medical and health practices to the development of
complementary and alternative therapies. The objective of the study is to recognize the strengths
limitation and prospects of complementary and alternative medicines in clinical health care. To
recognize the potential and contribution of the Indian indigenous medical and health practices in
contemporary health care as a part of CAM interventions. Studies indexed to PubMed, PubMed Central,
and Google Scholar have been examined for three months in 2022. There was no specific time duration
placed for searching and studies that meet the criteria of the research objectives have been textually
analyzed. A total of 09 publications were included in this review study. Contemporary CAM therapies
are accepted as clinical interventions in health care services. CAM therapies include energy, mind-body,
biological, and body-based interventions developed in Eastern medicine. These interventions are
clinically effective in the treatment of acute, and chronic diseases and mental disorders in evidence-
based practice. CAM therapies are holistic and natural as well as therapies are cost-effective and have
a high social demand. However, developing CAM therapies as interventions are waken by limitation
on research studies and professionalism deficits. Additionally, CAM interventions have the potential of
addressing the deficits of Western medicine. Further, in the contemporary healthcare system Ayurveda
and yoga have been utilized as major complementary and alternative therapies. The teachings of
Ayurveda utilize for the development of the conventional medical system and pragmatically utilize the
theoretical aspect for the cure and well-being. Moreover, contemporary yoga has become the most
evidence-based CAM therapy in conventional medicine and health care. Therefore, yoga practice
utilizes for the cure of chronic illness, and mental disorders and the promotion of wellbeing in present
health care. Considering all the facts which emphasize above highlights that contemporary health care
services have a necessity for alternative intervention approaches. CAM therapies have the potential to
promote self-care. Therefore CAM therapies have the potential to be utilized as an integrative clinical
approach with combining Western medicine for the development and promotion of health and well-
being. Further, the CAM therapies developed in the Indian continent have given a massive contribution
to the development of integrative health care.

Keywords: Complementary therapies, alternative therapies, Ayurveda, Yoga, Health Care

37
 IASAS 2023

INFLUENCE OF EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE ON MARITAL

SATISFACTION
Rajapaksha RWMSPK

Chester College of Higher Education, Sri Lanka

sriparamirajapaksha@gmail.com

Abstract
This study investigates the link between Emotional Intelligence (EI) and Marital Satisfaction in a
society where the family is considered the smallest unit. EI is defined as the ability to recognize and
manage emotions in oneself and others within relationships. The sample includes 300 married
individuals chosen through convenient sampling. EI was assessed using the Schutte Emotional
Intelligence Test, showing good reliability (Cronbach's alpha .80 to .90). Marital Satisfaction was
measured with the Revised Dyadic Adjustment Scale, exhibiting high internal consistency (reliability
coefficient 0.90). The data were analyzed using Spearman's rank-order correlation due to the non-
normal distribution of Marital Satisfaction data, revealing a significant positive relationship between EI
and Marital Satisfaction (r(300) = .138, p=.017). The study suggests the integration of EI in family
counseling and premarital programs in Sri Lanka, along with EI training in early education. Limitations
include uneven sample distribution among demographics, urging future research to achieve a more
balanced representation of participants. Overall, the study emphasizes the importance of EI in
promoting satisfying marital relationships and calls for further research to understand its impact and
underlying mechanisms.
Keywords: Emotional Intelligence, Marital Satisfaction, Family, Society, Relationship

38
 IASAS 2023

AN APPROACH TO BUDDHIST MENTAL HYGIENE AND ITS

UTILITY
Ven.Girandurukotte Sasanarathana

Department of Pali and Buddhist Studies

vengsthero@gmail.com
Abstract
As far as Buddhism is concerned, its fundamental teaching is based on the process of the mind. All
functions of the mind have been critically explored with the purpose of gaining proper knowledge of
how they affect the person, including all aspects of the human body. Buddhism emphasizes the specific
relationship between mind and body, which exists until the last breath of the human being. According
to Buddhist philosophy, the mind plays a major role in all human body functions. The major research
problem in this context is how Buddhism interprets mental hygiene and whether it is a specialty.
Qualitative method is used here as methodology. The term "mental hygiene" is described in an
encyclopedia as maintaining mental health and preventing psychoses. When this interpretation is
compared with Buddhist teaching, a specific process that leads to maintaining mental health as well as
preventing psychosis can be identified. External objects that take from the sense organs, as well as
attachment to these things, are thought to be the cause of mental illness. Buddhism identifies many
reasons that directly causes generate psychosis or mental illnesses. The thing that causes impurity in the
mind is called kilesa. According to Vattupama sutta, shows that 16 types of reasons or volitions that are
subject to illnesses of the mind. It also outlines five methods for avoiding and treating such mental
illnesses. Sallekha sutta also distinguishes a particular method of avoiding misbehavior that leads to
producing mental disturbances. The fundamental specialty in Buddhist mental hygiene is the
identification of mental illness along with the reason and its conditions, as well as the application of
appropriate and fruitful methods. All in all, it’s clear that a person can get a clear knowledge on the
mental illness and can be removed such types of reason by attaching methods depicted in Buddhism.

Keywords: Buddhism, Psychosis, Mental illness, Methods

39
 IASAS 2023

BLASPHEMY: A BUDDHIST APPROACH

Vijitha M
Department of Buddhist Philosophy, Faculty of Buddhist Studies,
Buddhist and Pali University of Sri Lanka, Sri Lanka
moragaswewewijitha@gmail.com
Abstract
The main objective of this paper is to examine the concept of blasphemy from the Buddhist perspective.
The word blasphemy or blaspheme is derived from the Latin word blasphemare which means those
who blaspheme God. It is further emphasized religion-based laws which are enacted against those who
insult and disrespect in a god or gods, an object considered sacred or such. According to the Abrahmic
religions (Judaism, Christianity and Islam) , blasphemy is regarded as religious crime that implemented
certain punishments against such people. Insulting the prophet Muhammad in Islam, speaking the
sacred name in Judaism and eternal sin in Christianity are considered as blasphemy. By recent time,
blasphemy laws have abolished in many countries including England, Wales, Ireland, Scotland,
Denmark, the Netherlands, Iceland, Norway and New Zealand. The Middle East and some of the North
African countries still have blasphemy laws. However, the Dharmic religions (Jainism, Buddhism and
Hinduism) have no concept of blasphemy as found in the Abrahmic religions. Therefore, there are no
prescribed punishments regarding such insults and disrespects against those religions and their sacred
persons and objects. Some of the recent incidents regarding unnecessary blames and disrespects against
Buddhism are controversial. Are they blaspheme? The well-known Brahamajālasutta (The nets of
Brahma) advices how a Buddhist disciple should conduct when someone speak ill of the Buddha,
Dhamma and the Saṅgha. What does the above statement of the Buddha imply contextually? This is a
library-based textual study. The research methodology utilized in the research will be reading and
analyzing the primary Buddhist teachings relating to the subject area and other selected secondary texts,
monographs and articles to generate empirical results.
Keywords: Blasphemy, Buddhism, ICCPR, Religion, The Brahmajālasutta

40
 IASAS 2023

PHILOSOPHICAL ANALYSIS OF THE CHALLENGE OF

INTEGRATING BUDDHISM WITH HUMANISTIC PERSPECTIVE ON
PSYCHOLOGY (BASED ON THE CONCEPT OF VOLUNTARISM AND
DETERMINISM
Perera PYO 1* and Niranjan GN2
1
Department of Medical Humanities, Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka
2
Department of Philosophy, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka
oshadaperera54@gmail.com

Abstract

Most positive thinking programs in Sri Lanka combine humanistic psychology and Buddhist principles
to promote motivation, self-efficacy, and personal growth. However, the integration of Buddhist
philosophy with humanistic psychology poses challenges due to the intricate nature of Buddhist
concepts. Rushing to attach a Buddhist perspective to the Western psychological context may result in
oversimplification and misinterpretation of the profound teachings of Buddhism. This study examines
two key issues related to the intersection of Buddhism and humanistic psychology: the debatable
background of voluntarism and determinism and the challenge of interpreting motivational concepts.
The study relies on a rigorous analysis of foundational texts and aims to provide a balanced and
comparative philosophical review of these complex issues using an analytical approach. The presence
of free will is crucial for achieving positive goals as it ensures that human effort is not in vain. However,
the question arises as to what happens when free will is absent. This raises the philosophical problem
of voluntarism and determinism, which is relevant to the discussion of humanistic psychology.
Integrating Buddhism into the humanistic psychological approach raises the question of whether
Buddhism emphasizes voluntarism or determinism. The Tripitaka contains numerous teachings about
the future of individuals presenting examples that imply a deterministic viewpoint. In certain cases, key
concepts in Buddhism also emphasize determinism, such as the teachings on karma, which reveal a
deterministic aspect in understanding the consequences of actions and the interconnected nature of
existence. The consequences of actions are shaped by a complex interplay of factors, including past
actions, intentions, and the broader interconnectedness of existence, potentially conflicting with
humanistic psychology. This study aims to explore the philosophical challenge of reconciling Buddhist
teaching with humanistic psychological concepts, regarding the problem of voluntarism and
determinism.

41
 IASAS 2023

A CRITICAL REVIEW OF NIRGUNDIKATAILA OF

SARASAMKSHEPA IN UTTAMANGA CIKITSA

Bandara AMNV1, Somarathna KIWK2*, Molligoda SP2 and Senadhira HM3

Niwārā Ayurvedic Medical Center, Colombo, Sri Lanka.

1
2
Faculty of Indigenous Medicine, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka.
3
Former Commissioner of Ayurveda, Central Province, Kandy, Sri Lanka.
niwarthanavbandara@gmail.com

Abstract
Shirsha or Uttamanga is a major Marma, composed of all the Pancendriya. Thus, any disease of head
and its special senses should be duly treated. Dhatukshaya in aging and associated Vatadoshakopa
impair the sense organs and their functions, for example, hearing and vision loss in the elderly. Regular
oleating of Murdha, Shrotra, Ghrana and Pada ensure Arogya and Indriyavijaya. Oleation of Murdha
can be administered as Shiro-Abhyanga, Shiro-Seka, Shiro-Picu and Shiro-Basti. Such theoretical
background warranted this study to review the role of Nirgundikataila in the treatment of diseases of
Shirsha and Pancendriya. Hence, this study aims to elucidate Nirgundikataila mentioned in
Sarasamkshepa and prescribed by Akurandeniya traditional physicians of Kandy. The data was
collected from Sarasamkshepa and relevant Ayurveda texts and from personal interviews with the
Akurandeniya traditional physicians. Nirgundikataila is prepared with Nirgundi (Vitex negundo L.,
Lamiaceae and known as Nika in Sinhala) as the principal ingredient. Nirgundi means “eliminating all
diseases” in Sanskrit, certainly justifying its medicinal value. It possesses Katu (pungent), Tikta (bitter)
and Kashaya (astringent) Rasa, Ruksha (dryness) and Snigdha (oleating) Guna, Ushna (hot) Virya and
Katu (pungent) Vipaka. Nirgundi pacifies Vata and Kapha Dosha while aggravating Pitta Dosha. The
whole plant, leaves, roots, fruits, and seeds are used in external and internal treatments for many
diseases. Its anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antioxidant, antibiotic, anticonvulsant, anti-androgen,
hepatoprotective, antirheumatic and antiallergic activities have been scientifically established.
Moreover, many research articles published its various therapeutic potential on cataract, headache,
sinusitis, swelling of the neck, neck gland injuries, hearing loss, tuberculosis, venereal disease and other
skin diseases. The above facts clarify that Nirgundikataila is indicated for Shirshakampa, Nasaroga,
Timira, Upajihvika and Karnaroga affecting Shirsha and respective Pancendriya. It is administered as
Shirshabhyanga, Nasya, Kavalagraha and Karnapurana. Its uninterrupted usage supports its efficacy in
the Shirsharoga and Uttamanga Cikitsa.
Keywords: Nirgundikataila, Shirsha Roga, Uttamanga Cikitsa, Sarasamkshepa

42
 IASAS 2023

EFFECTS OF EMPLOYEE ATTITUDES TOWARD PROFESSIONAL

ETHICS ON MOTIVATION IN THE INSURANCE INDUSTRY: A CASE
STUDY
De Zoysa AHN
Department of Indigenous Health Sciences, Faculty of Indigenous Health Sciences and Technology,
Gampaha Wickramarachchi University of Indigenous Medicine, Sri Lanka
harini.navo33@gmail.com

Abstract
Professional ethics provide a clear framework for employees to understand the values and principles
that guide their work. Employees who exhibit good work ethics conduct themselves in a professional
manner at all times. When employees believe in and align with ethical standards, they can enhance their
motivation and drive to perform their work more effectively and efficiently. However, the issue is that
neglecting to foster proper work ethics in the workforce can negatively impact both employee
motivation and organizational performance. The main objective of the study was to find out the effects
of employee attitudes towards professional ethics on motivation. 260 employees were chosen as the
sample, and data were gathered using a quantitative approach. Both primary and secondary data
collection methods were used. Data analysis was done using the descriptive analysis method. Results
revealed that employee attitudes toward professional ethics affect employee motivation in the
organization. Additionally, this paper discusses the value of professional ethics in the organization and
encourages top management to motivate their employees by fostering strong professional ethics.
Keywords: Employee attitudes, professional ethics, employee motivation, work ethics, organizational
performance

43
 IASAS 2023

YOGA AS THE INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE FOR MAKING SOUTH

ASIA HEALTHIER AND MORE HARMONIOUS: WITH THE SPECIAL
REFERENCE TO INDIA AND SRI LANKA
Satyapal Yadav
Department of History, Faculty of Social Sciences
Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India

Abstract
Yoga as the indigenous knowledge for making South Asia healthier and more harmonious: With the special
reference to India and Sri Lanka. South Asia region comes under the sub-region of Asia consisting of the Indo-
Gangetic plain and peninsular India surrounded by Afghanistan and the Himalaya in North, the Indian Ocean
in South, Arabian ocean & Pakistan in West while Bay of Bengal in East. It includes the countries of
Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Pakistan, Nepal and Sri Lanka. Afghanistan and the Maldives are often considered
part of South Asia as well. This region is in the developing phase and in the process of overcoming the
challenges of degradation of environment, demand exceeding the supply and demographical over pressure.
But, this region is full of diversity and a depository of indigenous knowledge because of its very long history
of human civilization. Diversity is the sign of this region all over the world as it has diversity in all aspects
like biodiversity, natural diversity, diversity of flora and fauna, social diversity, cultural diversity, etc. In the
context of India and Sri Lanka, the diversity feature is common to both. Both the Nations have very rich
diversity whether it is natural or social. In this case, diversity of indigenous knowledge is beneficial to both
the Nations in which yoga is one of the best indigenous knowledge which is boon for both the countries to
share and utilize the benefits of this indigenous knowledge. Yoga is an ancient science developed in India
about 5000 years ago. The word yoga is derived from the Sanskrit word 'Yuj'/Yujir which gives the meaning
of union or combination of mind, body and soul. But now, in modern day Yoga is being also used to combine
the community, society or even Nations for peace and prosperity. Initially the practice of yoga was started as
a practice of a spirituality but now, the contemporary practice of yoga is developed as a holistic approach to
health and personality development. From a health perspective, yoga is a scientific practice for the positive
development of physical, emotional, social and spiritual health. This indigenous knowledge is very useful for
both the Nations for their own sake as well as for the whole South Asian region. As now, global policy makers
also consider peace and harmony as requisite components for the development of a nation. Sri Lanka is also a
pluralistic community that represents the value of multicultural, multi-religious and multi-ethnicities.
Referencing the Sri Lanka national policy and comprehension framework of actions on education for social
cohesion and peace (2008) indicates Sri Lanka's application for peace building through peace education. There
is high global demand for utilizing yoga in peace education. In the context of Sri Lanka, there is a more
significant value in utilizing the yoga practice under peace education. Thus, yoga is the indigenous knowledge
or practice which is beneficial for both the Nations as well as for the whole South Asia region. There is a need
for mutual cooperation for more scientific research, revaluation of existing classical literatures as well as re-
institutionalization of the informal practices and knowledge in formal and standard way. This article will
explore the different dimensions of yoga and its application as the indigenous knowledge which could be used
in strengthening the bonding as well as peace building in the South Asia region.

44
 IASAS 2023

SHORT ABSTRACTS
ANTHROPOLOGY/ SOCIOLOGY

45
 IASAS 2023

WOMEN'S ROLES IN SRI LANKA'S ANCIENT CULTURE OF PEACE

Lakmini Gamage1*, Arjuna Manage KMG2
1
Department of History and Archaeology,
Faculty of Humanaities and Social Sciences, University of Ruhuna
2
Department of History and Archaeology,
Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Ruhuna
lakmini24@gmail.com

Abstract
This research explores the complex roles of women in Sri Lanka's ancient culture of peace. Despite the
challenges of a patriarchal society, women have played a significant role in traditional conflict resolution
practices in Sri Lanka for centuries. The research question is what specific traditional conflict resolution
practices have women in Sri Lanka historically utilized, and how have these practices contributed to a
sustainable peace? However, their contributions have been historically overlooked and marginalized.
Using a qualitative research approach, that includes Primary and secondary literature surveys and
observing archeological sources. This study investigates the experiences of women who have been
involved in conflict resolution and peace-building activities in Sri Lanka. Women who have actively
participated in these activities are conducted, along with a thorough literature survey of the historical role
of women in Sri Lanka's ancient culture of peace. The study analyzes and interprets the collected data by
using thematic analysis. The findings reveal that women's roles in conflict resolution and peacebuilding
in Sri Lanka are multifaceted and essential. Women have been actively involved in traditional conflict
resolution practices such as mediation, negotiation, and arbitration. They have also been involved in
grassroots movements, advocacy groups, and community organizations that have contributed to
peacebuilding in the country. However, the research also shows that women have faced numerous
challenges in their efforts to participate fully in conflict resolution and peacebuilding activities. These
challenges include cultural and societal norms that limit their participation, gender-based discrimination
and violence, and lack of access to resources and decision-making processes. The results of this research
highlight the need to increase women's participation and leadership in conflict resolution and
peacebuilding activities. This includes addressing the structural barriers that prevent women's meaningful
participation, promoting their access to resources and decision-making processes, and creating supportive
environments that empower them to contribute to the culture of peace. Overall, this study contributed to
a better understanding of the role of women in conflict resolution and peacebuilding, as well as the gender
dynamics in Sri Lanka's ancient culture of peace.

Keywords: Ancient, Conflict, Peace, Sri Lanka, Women

46
 IASAS 2023

THE IMPACT OF CHINESE CULTURAL IDENTITY ON CHINESE

LANGUAGE LEARNING ATTITUDES AND OUTCOMES: A CASE
STUDY OF CHINESE LANGUAGE MAJOR UNDERGRADUATES IN
SRI LANKA

Kumara TKAP1, Madhusanka NGD2*

1
National Research Centre for Foreign Language Education, Beijing Foreign Studies University,
China.
2
Department of Modern Languages, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka.
Dilanmadhusanka2018@gmail.com

Abstract

This study investigates the role of cultural identity in the language learning process and achievement of
Sri Lankan Chinese language major undergraduates. A qualitative approach was used, employing in-
depth interviews and observations to collect data from four participants with diverse backgrounds.
Thematic analysis was used to identify themes related to the undergraduate students' understanding and
expression of their Chinese cultural identity, as well as the factors shaping their perceptions. The study
revealed that all four participants had a strong interest in Chinese culture and identified themselves as
culturally Chinese. They had a deep understanding of Chinese values, traditions, and festivals and
recognized the importance of education and respect for authority. Identification with Chinese culture
played a significant role in the language learning process for the participants. By understanding and
appreciating Chinese culture, they were able to develop a deeper connection with the language and its
nuances, which motivated them to continue learning the language. This research has implications for
building cultural bridges between different communities. By identifying with Chinese culture, these Sri
Lankan Chinese language learners may be better equipped to understand the differences between their
own culture and others, leading to more tremendous mutual respect and understanding. The study
highlights the importance of promoting cultural exchange and understanding in language learning
programs to facilitate cultural exchange and build bridges between different cultures. In conclusion, this
study suggests that cultural identity plays a significant role in Chinese language learning among Sri
Lankan university students. Embracing and celebrating different cultures can help us build bridges that
will help overcome cultural barriers and promote greater harmony and cooperation among different
cultures.

Keywords: Chinese Language, Cultural identity, Sri Lankan undergraduates, Learning experience,
Cause study

47
 IASAS 2023

AN ANTHROPOLOGICAL STUDY ON HOW THE CULTURAL

DIFFUSION AFFECTED THE CULTURAL TRANSFORMATION OF
THE SRI LANKAN KAFFIR COMMUNITY
(WITH REFERENCE TO SIRAMBIADI)
Amarakoon AACN1*, and Nahllage CAD2

1, 2
Department of Anthropology,
Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka.
chathurungani@gmail.com

Abstract

Sri Lanka has been the home to the communities like Sinhala, Tamil, Muslim and Burgher including several
other minor racial groups. Among them the Kaffir community takes a significant place since the early
colonial era. The colonial rulers brought different communities with them while exploring the world;
especially as slaves. Thereby, the groups brought on board as the combat fighters and slaves by the
Portuguese invaders somewhere around in 1505, are considered as the indigenous ancestors of the Sri
Lankan Kaffir generations. Not only under the Portuguese rule, but also during the Dutch and the British
period, they engaged in different professions and dispersed around the island for different purposes of the
colonial rulers. This is a study of the influence of the cultural diffusion to the cultural transformation of the
Sri Lankan Kaffir community in Sirambiadi, Puttalam district in the North Western province. Cultural
diffusion is the process of transferring cultural elements from one culture to another culture. Using 23
people from randomly selected 23 families from this community as the data samples, conducting interviews
with a pre-set questionnaire, this data was gathered. According to this study the unique identity of the Sri
Lankan Kaffir community is endangered and they have been subjected to an alien cultural background. The
main reason behind this is identified as the inter-marriages between the communities of core cultures. At
the present day, though their physical appearance shows their real identity, their cultural practices are very
similar to the major Sinhala and Hindu racial groups. For an example, their costumes have a Sinhalese look
while the rituals they follow in a puberty ceremony are quiet closer to the Hindu community (Ghee oil
mixed culinary delights). Apparently, the new generation is losing most of the physical features from their
parents, like the curly hair and the dark skin, where as they have a tan skin tone with no frizzy hair! There
is no one who still remembers their mother tongue, whereas they only listen to some songs from their
motherland as a glimpse of their cultural essence. The cultural musical festivals, the main source of income
is no more and they face different financial challenges due to the lack of permanent professions. So, this
study will showcase how the Kaffir community longs for their sovereignty. Moreover, this study will throw
light to the measures that should be taken to uplift the psycho-social wellbeing, financial aid required to
uplift their main income sources while eradicating them from being social outcasts of the major community.

Keywords: Cultural diffusion, Generation, Kaffir community,

48
 IASAS 2023

CULTIVATING CHANGE: SOCIO-CULTURAL ASPECTS OF

DECLINING TRADITIONAL AGRICULTURE IN MALLAHAM, JAFFNA,
SRI LANKA

Silva OTD, Jayatilleke YD* and Withanachchi RK

Department of Anthropology, Faculty of Humanities & Social Sciences,

University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka
Tharangadsilva6@gmail.com

Abstract

Traditional agricultural practices have been an integral part of Sri Lanka's cultural heritage, providing
sustenance and livelihoods for generations. However, in recent years, Jaffna, a region known for its
unique traditional agriculture, has witnessed a significant decline in these time-honoured practices. This
paper explores the socio-cultural factors contributing to this decline and its implications for the local
community. Drawing upon data collected through interviews, group discussions, and observations
during a study conducted in Jaffna's Mallaham area, this research sheds light on the multifaceted nature
of the issue. The study involved 25 respondents, including farmers, youth, and community members
directly affected by the changing agricultural landscape. The findings reveal a complex interplay of
factors leading to the dwindling interest and engagement in traditional agriculture. First and foremost,
the younger generation's disinterest in agricultural activities has played a pivotal role. As Jaffna
embraces modernization, many young individuals are drawn to alternative livelihoods, perceiving
agriculture as physically demanding and financially unrewarding. Another critical factor is the widening
gap in the transmission of traditional agricultural knowledge from elders to the younger generation. As
children of farmers migrate abroad for better economic opportunities, the exchange of invaluable
agricultural wisdom is being interrupted. Remittances sent back home act as incentives for parents to
discontinue farming and discourage their children from pursuing agricultural practices. The impact of
climate change further exacerbates the challenges faced by traditional agriculture in Jaffna.
Unpredictable weather patterns, including irregular rainfall and rising temperatures, disrupt the delicate
balance that once sustained local farming systems. Additionally, finding labor has become increasingly
difficult due to changing societal dynamics and evolving work preferences among rural communities.
It underscores the importance of understanding the intricate web of factors influencing agricultural
transformations, urging for the preservation and revitalization of traditional practices to ensure food
security, cultural heritage, and sustainable livelihoods for the local community.
Keywords: Traditional, Agriculture, Socio-culture, Decline, Change

49
 IASAS 2023

CASTE ON THE PLANTATIONS: DALITS’ LIFE UNDER THE INDENTURE

Ayushi Varma

Department of History, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India

Abstract

Although a substantial corpus of ethnographic and sociological work exists on metamorphosis of caste
practices in diasporic Indian communities, but if we compare, we do not find an equally great amount
of work done on diasporic Dalits. This relative absence of Dalit diaspora in academic discourse is a gap
that has to be filled. Analysis has not been done sufficiently to notice the perilous existence of Savarna
dominance in the larger caste- class nexus that reins the narratives and experiences of Indian identity,
history and culture in the global setting. Consequently, what we get is the Dalit diaspora being
marginalised. Furthermore, in the conventional academic works, “diaspora” is overwhelmingly
expressed as a homogeneous grouping. But it’s clear that the Indian diaspora is not a monolithic whole.
Replicating and reflecting the Indian society, it is also divided on caste lines. Hence, an in-depth analysis
to locate caste as a causal factor is the need of the hour. The intention of this paper is to focus on Dalit
experiences and lives in the Indian diaspora. Much accentuation has been put on the repositioning of
societal confines, probing the various methods and means that migration allowed girmitiyas to liberate
himself from family burdens, stringent socio-economic structures, and caste prejudices. Despite the
intense ache that migrants must have felt on separating from their families, communities and country,
they chose to leave. Conditions must have been so bad that they considered the option of uprooting
themselves over staying in their home country.

50
 IASAS 2023

COMPARATIVE STUDY OF RITUALISTIC PRACTICES OF

BENGAL’S MANASĀ GHOT AND BIHAR’S BIHULĀ-VIŚAHARĪ BĀRĪ
KALAŚA

Sarika Kumari
Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
sarikakumari51@gmail.com
Abstract
The Bengal’s Manasā and Bihar’s Bihulā-Viśaharī are folk cults which primarily worship as snake
goddesses. The festival Bihulā-Viśaharī delves into the region of Bhagalpur and adjoining districts, in
the month of July and August worshipped taken place annually; Moreover Manasā festival is celebrated
in the region of Bengal, Assam, Tripura and Bangladesh yearly during the monsoon season. Serpent
worship is a pan-Indian phenomenon. Snake worship is popular in each and every part of India since
time immemorial. This study tries to bring out the significance of the snake worship of Bengal
(Birbhum, Bankura and Medinipur) and Bihar (Bhagalpur, Munger, Banka, Dumka and Rajgir), one is
called Manasābārī ghot (pitcher), and other is known as Bārī Kalaśa (vase). Both are part of cultic
practices worshipped annually in the month of rainy season and on auspicious occasion of the family
like mundan, upnayan, marriage etc. or also worshipped by individual throughout the year if their
wishes are fulfilled. In Bihulā-Viśaharī festival Bārī is the main ritualistic object and it is essential for
the worship of the goddess. In Bhagalpur region, a painting form is also part of the ritual. It is elaborately
painted on a canopied structure made of Shola paper (pith-ball), Sanai (Jute fiber soft wood) and paper
and is also part of the ritual. However, additional painted objects are not seen in the worship of Manasā.
Manasā ghots are elaborately painted in similar fashion as in the Bārī Kalaśa. However, one can see
variations in the motifs and patterns painted on both objects.
There has been no prior research, particularly on the art of Bhagalpur’s Bārī Kalaśa. There are very few
vernacular accounts and it exists mainly in oral tradition in the form of songs and ballads. Qualitative
and quantitative both data have been utilised for the interpretation of both cultic practices. The present
study highlights the artistic aspects of the objects and myths narrating the glorious tales of the
goddesses. This paper is based on both art historical and anthropological analysis to understand the
significance of these ritualistic objects.
Keywords: Serpent Worship, Nāga Cult, Folk Tradition, Bengal, Manasā, Bihulā-Viśaharī, Bārī Kalaśa

51
 IASAS 2023

SOCIAL STIGMAS OF WOMEN IN CORPORATE WORLD

Jhilik Chakraborty and Deepanjali Mishra
School of Humanities, KIIT (Deemed to be University), Bhubaneswar
Abstract

Theories of Feminism advocate equal rights for women in terms of education, property and division of
labour. The definition of Feminism has taken a large step where the definition also includes the aspects
of modern feminism. The modern feminism is similar to the feminism of 19th century, which is called
as the first wave of feminism. The qualities added to the movement include sovereign, coarse and self-
confident on the toe. With the evolving time, the aura around the patriarchal world has also changed.
The due course of changes does not only take place inside the four walls but also in the outer world
where women are now a part of the corporate world. Women still lack behind in the corporate world in
the name of sexism, decision making, social life and economic liberation. The prejudice of patriarchal
dominance has not been able to make women independent enough to break the glass ceiling. Women
need to fight for rights even after so many years of advancement of feminism. The corporate world
which deals with the cumulative traits like social skills, economic independence, enthusiasm to lead
and create self-identity in crowd; these traits are already present in the performance of women.
Therefore, the basic objective of this paper is to understand the social stigmas of Corporate
Communication with special reference to gender biasness.

Keywords: Stigmas, Women, socialization, Gender

52
 IASAS 2023

FOSTERING MARITIME CONNECTIVITY IN SOUTH ASIA: ROLE

OF
THE REGIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
Amila Prasanga AP

Commander -Sri Lanka Navy, Military Research Officer

Institute of National Security Studies
apa.prasanga@gmail.com

Abstract

Maritime connectivity plays a vital role in fostering economic growth, regional integration, and
geopolitical stability in South Asia. The efficient flow of goods, services, and ideas through maritime
routes is crucial for the region's economic development and integration. However, there are various
challenges that need to be addressed to ensure security and sustainability in the maritime domain.
Regional organizations have emerged as key actors in fostering cooperation and connectivity among
countries in South Asia. The primary objective of this study is to examine the importance of maritime
connectivity in South Asia and explore the role of regional organizations in promoting collaboration
and regional integration. To achieve the objectives of this study, a qualitative research approach is
employed, utilizing desk research and case studies. The findings reveal that maritime trade plays a
significant role in the South Asian economy, with a substantial share of the region's exports and imports
being handled by South Asian ports. The results reveal that maritime trade plays a significant role in
the South Asian economy and development, with a significant amount of the region's exports and
imports being handled by South Asian ports. However, the region faces various maritime challenges
that require collaborative efforts to ensure security and sustainability. The discussion highlights the
importance of regional organizations in promoting maritime cooperation and connectivity, such as the
South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-
Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC), and Indian Ocean Rim Association
(IORA). These organizations serve as platforms for dialogue, cooperation, and coordination among
South Asian countries and facilitate initiatives to enhance maritime connectivity. The findings
underscore the need for coordinated efforts in areas such as infrastructure development, port
connectivity, maritime security, and capacity building to address the challenges and seize the
opportunities presented by the region. The study concludes by emphasizing the significance of regional
organizations as catalysts for fostering maritime connectivity in South Asia and recommends strategies
to strengthen their roles, including enhancing institutional frameworks, promoting information sharing,
facilitating investment and technology transfer, fostering people-to-people exchanges and strengthen
maritime security cooperation. By implementing these recommendations, South Asian countries can
foster their maritime connectivity, bolster economic growth, and promote regional integration.

Keywords: Maritime Connectivity, South Asia, Regional Organizations, Economic Growth, Regional
Integration

53
 IASAS 2023

INTELLECTUAL EXCHANGES IN SOUTH ASIAN COUNTRIES

(IN PARTICULAR CONTEXT OF BHAKTI MOVEMENT)
Tathadi

Department of Hindi
Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India

Abstract

Ashoka spread Buddhism globally. Later, travelers from various countries came to India. Some of them
studied here in ancient universities. Fa Hien, Huien Tsang and It Sing came to India from China. Huien
Tsang took many Buddhist manuscripts back to China via Tibet. Some Indians too went to neighboring
countries. Bodhidharma was an Indian Buddhist monk who lived during the 5th or 6th century CE, is
credited as the transmitter of Chan Buddhism in China. He also started the physical training of the
monks of Shaolin monastery that led to the creation of Shaolin Kung fu. In 19th century some Indian
Buddhist scholars including Rahul Sankrityayan , Bhadant Anand Kaushalyayan and Nagarjuna went
to Sri Lankan monasteries to learn the teachings of Buddha. Some of them also travelled to Tibet to
bring some Buddhist manuscripts and other related things back to India. The epic of Ramayana also
establishes too many historical relations between Nepal, India and Srilanka. Ram and Sita belonged to
Awadh (India) and Mithila (close to Nepal) respectively. They travelled across India to reach Sri lanka.
Vibhishan came to Ram’s army and paid a friendly visit to Ayodhya after war. The Srilankan King
Ravan, who himself was considered as a great scholar, was a great Shaivite, who, according to some
folk tales, went to Kailas every day to worship lord Shiva. Here, we can see the congruence of vaishnavs
and shaivs together. After a long time, Vaishnav and shaiv way to worship got mixed with Buddhist
and Sufi philosophy and resulted in Bhakti movement, which had its role in the anti-colonial movements
in entire southern Asia. Nowadays, SAARC is also working to facilitate intellectual exchanges across
south Asia. Its writers and literature wing FOSWAL organizes literature festivals and invites writers,
poets, and scholars from every SAARC country on one platform to exchange ideas and celebrate South
Asian culture. South Asian countries have remained as a unit, both geographically and culturally.
History has also envisaged major intellectual and cultural exchanges beyond political and geographical
boundaries. These exchanges have played a decisive role in the formulation of our cultural identity.
Literature is a big part of it, which further helps in shaping nationalist sentiments within a country.

Keywords: literature, Bhakti movement, nationalism, capitalism, crisis

54
 IASAS 2023

ANALYSIS OF THE SOCIO-ECONOMIC STRUCTURE OF

MIGRATED PATA AND NAKSHI KANTHA ARTISTS IN BIRBHUM
DISTRICT OF WEST BENGAL
Rajiv Mandal
1
History of Visual Arts & Design, Faculty of Visual Arts, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
rajivmandal9@gmail.com

Abstract
‘Pata’ and ‘Nakshi Kantha’ are the folk art of Bengal, which originated in undivided Bengal. After the
partition of the country or any other cause most of the “Pata” and “Nakshi Kantha” artists migrated
from Bangladesh and started settling in areas of West Bengal, Odisha, Assam, Tripura, Bihar,
Jharkhand, Delhi, Jharkhand, Rajasthan.The artist of “pata” painting and “nakshi Kantha”, most of
them were Muslims. They have their community as called “pata chitrakar” and “nakshi kantha” artist’s
in Birbhum district the villages around santiniketan. And now days in-between these Muslim villages
the ‘pata’ painting artists (pata chitrakar) and ‘nakshi kantha’ artists were almost disappeared. Many
of these migrated artists were again migrated to the densely populated regions of the country. The arts
of these artists who settled in Bengal have either disappeared in today’s time or they have changed their
profession.This article analyze the social and economic condition of “Pata” and “Nakshi Kantha”
artists who migrated from Bangladesh in Birbhum District and Bengal. Many have changed their
occupation as well as changed their professions. Somehow the major portion of the population in this
district of this artist community has been shifted to other occupation to get their livelihood. But even
today some artists communities who have preserved their art from generation to till now. The condition
of all these artists and the art of ‘Pata’ and ‘Nakshi Kantha’ also be highlighted in this article.
Keywords: Pata - Chitra, Nakshi Kantha, Migration, Socio-Economic condition, Birbhum, Bangladesh

55
 IASAS 2023

SHORT ABSTRACTS
HISTORY AND ARCHAEOLOGY

56
 IASAS 2023

IDENTIFY THE POTENTIALS TO DEVELOP INTANGIBLE

CULTURAL HERITAGE IN SRI LANKA
Lakmini GWDL1 and Karunarathna HHA2
1
Department of Tourism management, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka
2
University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda, Sri Lanka
Abstract

Originally, the term culture derived from Latin cultura, which means to cultivate. And all cultures share
the basic features such as learned, shared, symbolic, integrated and dynamic. Those cultural elements
are basically two types as tangible culture and intangible culture. Intangible cultural heritage is very
important because it’s can be specifically identified traditions and living expressions inherited from
ancestors and passed on to descendants. Intangible cultural heritage includes cultural practices, oral
traditions, languages, skills, techniques, performing arts, rituals, festive events and knowledge. Today
most of the tourists are travelling to the purpose of getting the authentic experience. Intangible culture
is one of the best product for the tourism and it can be useful to develop the destination management in
Sri Lanka. Studies conducted in Sri Lanka shows mostly promotes tangible cultural heritage only. But
promoting intangible cultural heritage is great approach to provide tourists with an authentic experience.
There is a possibility of improving special interest tourism concepts in Sri Lanka through intangible
cultural heritages. But it can be recognized that such concepts have not yet developed in Sri Lanka. The
purpose of this qualitative research is how to promote the intangible cultural heritages for the purpose
of developing the betterment of the tourism industry and reduce the cultural distances between the
tourist culture and the host culture in Sri Lanka. Data were collected from middle aged backpack tourist
(age 36-55) through the observation of social media. Through this research, the researcher attempts to
cover several significant intangible cultural elements such as food culture, folk arts, folk medicine, folk
dancing, folk religion, folk life and culture for identifying the potentials to develop intangible cultural
heritage in Sri Lanka. The suggestions were proposed to improve special interest tourism considering
the intangible cultural heritage in Sri Lanka and change in the attitudes of local people. Also, the
researcher points out that the results found by this are to promote the still unknown intangible heritage
with sustainable practices for the advancement of the tourism industry and to protect the authenticity of
the intangible heritage without over commodification and to expose the authentic experience of the
intangible heritage to the tourists. The results are wellness tourism with indigenous medicine, agri-
tourism with Sinhalese cultural farming, village tourism, gastronomy with cultural cuisines, Spiritual
tourism related to the Buddhist meditation practices expose to the tourists.

Keywords: Special interest tourism, Gastronomic tourism, Spiritual tourism, Tourist culture, Host
culture

57
 IASAS 2023

A STUDY ON THE ROLE OF BODHISATTVA AS AN EXEMPLARY

IDEAL FOR REDUCING NARCISSISTIC TENDENCIES AMONG
HUMANS
Munasinghe HMLM
Department of Pali and Buddhist Studies, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
leenamadhavi371@arts.pdn.ac.lk

Abstract
It is regarded that a narcissist is someone who displays an inordinate amount of self-love, arrogance,
and self-serving behaviour. Serving oneself and prioritizing one’s own desires over those of others are
central to narcissism. The disadvantage of having a narcissistic personality is that it might potentially
harm narcissists themselves as well as negatively impacting other people in numerous ways. However,
narcissists are continually superior to them and believe that they are the ones who need to receive
attention first. Buddhism uses the concept of ‘bodhisattva’ to present an idealized version of a person
who is the antithesis of having a narcissistic personality. The word ‘Bodhisattva’ refers to the widely
accepted Buddhist idea of a person who aspires to become a Buddha. A person with this personality
type dedicates his entire life to developing unbounded generosity. Some exemplary characteristics of a
Bodhisattva are compassion, generosity, loving kindness, tolerance, Wisdom, and devotedly serving for
others’ well-being. This study examines how narcissistic tendencies among humans can be challenged
through the ideal training of a Bodhisattva. The objective of this study is to examine some of the
exceptional characteristics of a Bodhisattva that can assist lessen inclination of humankind for
narcissism. This study utilizes a qualitative methodology and is conducted as a textual analysis. There
will be a mix of primary and secondary sources, with a special focus on the ‘Bodhicaryāvatāra’
composed by the śāntideva. The study comes to the conclusion that a role of a Bodhisattva could make
a significant effect on reducing narcissistic tendencies of humans.
Keywords: Narcissistic tendencies, Self-love, Bodhisattva, Bodhicaryāvatāra, śāntideva

58
 IASAS 2023

AN INVESTIGATION OF THE EMPLOYMENT AMONG THE

COMMON PEOPLE IN MEDIEVAL SRI LANKAN SOCIETY
Wijerathna SWSG* and Samaranayaka PWPH
Postgraduate Institute of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
gayand02i83@gmail.com
Abstract
In the study of the history of Sri Lanka, the Polonnaruwa Kingdom period and its surrounding period
are generally considered to be the medieval period. That is 11th, 12th and 13th A.D. centuries and its
surrounding period. In the inquiry about the social condition of this time it is possible to reveal a lot of
information through literary sources as well as archaeological sources. When studying those sources, it
is possible to identify a number of different industries or employment that were rooted in the society of
this country during the medieval period. As the research problem of this research, what was the
Employment of the common people of Sri Lankan society during the Medieval period? In this research,
the purpose is to briefly examine how employment have existed in the past in connection with various
industries and to examine in depth how various employment were rooted in the society of Sri Lanka
during the medieval period, what form they took in practice, and the effect of those employment on the
society of Sri Lanka during the medieval period and later periods the aim is also to examine what form
the effect took. The non-field study method was used to confirm this research problem, and in
accordance with the qualitative research method, the library research method was used to collect data
by using primary and secondary sources, data collection by using the internet, data analysis, and
drawing conclusions was done. In the inquiry about the employment in Sri Lankan society during the
medieval period, it is possible to identify how social life as well as economic life were based on work.
It can be seen that the state's economic status and production opportunities were mainly determined by
the employment of common people. One of the main features that can be noticed when focusing on this
period is that there is no discernible reference to large industries. And since it can be recognized that
the main employment at this time was agriculture, it can also be recognized that the income received
from agriculture and land was the main source of income for the government. Because of this there is
much evidence that the state's support for the development of agriculture was well received this time as
in previous times. Apart from agriculture, it can be recognized that many other Employment were
practiced in the contemporary period. The influence of caste on employment, especially in the medieval
period can be seen as can the way in which employment were passed down through generations. But in
general, it can be recognized that there were several employments that the common people were
engaged in without the influence of caste. The medieval period was somewhat busier than the
Anuradhapura kingdom and was a period of foreign influences, especially the period after the Chola
period, which was influenced by Hindu culture and the foreign relations of rulers like I Vijayabahu, I
Parakramabahu and Nisshankamalla which differed from the social conditions of the earlier period. A
number of prominent patterns can also be identified. It is clear that these effects have also affected
employment. Caste as a simple division of labor system can be recognized at this time, and it has
continued to move forward. But there has not been a form of deciding the job based on the caste system
itself. Also, there were a number of employments that had a respectable and important status in society
and it can be clearly identified that they were operating in a progressive manner as a driving force in
leading society and had an impact on the later period as well.
Keywords: Medieval period, Society, Common People, Employment, Influences

59
 IASAS 2023

HISTORICAL VALUES AND BEHAVIORS OF SAGAMA RAJAMAHA

VIHARA
Bandara MMN
Department of Pali and Buddhist Studies, Buddhist Faculty,
SIBA University (Sri Lanka International Buddhist Academy), Sri Lanka
niroshanbandara460@gmail.com

Abstract
Sri Lanka is a country with many ancient ruins. The ruins of ancient kingdoms are still being explored
today. The ancient rituals of the Rajamaha Vihara of Sagama are still performed, and these historical
ruins have also been preserved in a way that does not harm the antiquity. Sadddharmaratnavaliya,
Rasavahiniya, and Chulabodhivansaya, are the ancient literature that explains Bodhi's plantation in
Sagama Rajamaha Vihara. The story of this temple can provide additional insight into the significance
of prominent historical figures, such as Kappetipola Nilame and Ven. Welivita Sarankara Sangharaja
Maha Thero. Although it is not possible to say exactly which period the old temple belongs to, it is
believed to have been built at the end of the Gampola period or the beginning of the Kandy period. The
wood's eroded shape and the paintings' form can be considered as factors here. The temple canopies are
now seriously dilapidated, and the paintings painted on them are disappearing. There is no specific
evidence to confirm the era and generation of the painted items. However, they are believed to be based
on advanced painting techniques. The temple grounds have a massive old Na (Ceylon Ironwood) tree
that is a stunning sight. This ancient temple seems to have fallen into decline after the British
imperialists invaded the hill country Sagama Rajamaha temple inscription is one of the most significant
inscriptions in the history of this country. Here, the writer tries to outline the facts to the reader about
Sagama Rajamaha Vihara, which is of historical value in this country, and explores it in detail through
several aspects.
Keywords: Ruins, Rituals, Paintings, Inscription, Preservation

60
 IASAS 2023

SHIV NADAR INSTITUTE OF EMINENCE

Deepti Mulgund

Department of Art, Media, and Performance

Abstract
Museums of India: Surveying Museums and the End of Empire in 1937, S.F Markham and H.
Hargreaves produced Museums of India, a volume reporting the findings of their survey of the state of
museums across the length and breadth of the British empire in India, extending up to Burma.
Commissioned by the Museums Associations (of Britain), with funds from the Carnegie Corporation
New York, similar surveys were also conducted in other parts of the British empire, for example, South
Africa, and Australia. The proposed presentation offers a close reading of this text— as the production
of a ‘museum landscape’ in the Indian Subcontinent, and its valence, in the context of Indian and
imperial history. In the report, museums were specifically noted as a marker of ‘cultural level’ (p.3),
and India’s low number of museums, a mere 105, was telling. Further, the report was critical of not only
organizational, or resource shortages in the Subcontinent’s museums but also museum-going practices
of the region. Projecting a technocratic project of creating efficacious museums as its aim, the survey
and report produced the Indian Subcontinent needing continuing care. South Asia, in the text, thus
emerges as a landscape still awaiting ‘advancement,’ even as the end of empire seemed to loom large.

Keywords: India, museum, imperial history, British empire

61
 IASAS 2023

SWAMI VIVEKANANDA'S VISIT TO SRI LANKA: A HISTORICAL

PERSPECTIVE ON INTERFAITH DIALOGUE AND CULTURAL
EXCHANGE
Brajesh Kumar Prasad
Department of History, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India

Abstract
Swami Vivekananda, a renowned Indian spiritual leader and disciple of Sri Ramakrishna, visited Sri
Lanka in 1897 as part of his mission to promote the message of Vedanta and foster interfaith dialogue.
This paper presentation examines Swami Vivekananda's visit to Sri Lanka from a historical perspective,
focusing on its significance in fostering interfaith dialogue and cultural exchange.The abstract begins
by providing a brief background of Swami Vivekananda's life, emphasizing his role in the revival of
Hinduism and the propagation of Vedanta philosophy. It then sets the historical context of Sri Lanka
during the late 19th century, highlighting the socio-cultural and religious dynamics of the time. The
research paper delves into Swami Vivekananda's visit to Sri Lanka, exploring the events, meetings, and
interactions that took place during his stay. It examines his engagements with Buddhist monks, Hindu
scholars, Christian missionaries, and other religious and intellectual figures of Sri Lanka. By analyzing
historical records and primary sources, the presentation highlights the significance of these interactions
in promoting interfaith dialogue and mutual understanding. Furthermore, the research paper explores
the influence of Swami Vivekananda's teachings on the religious and intellectual landscape of Sri
Lanka. It examines how his messages of universal brotherhood, religious tolerance, and spiritual
awakening resonated with the people of Sri Lanka and contributed to the promotion of interfaith
harmony. The abstract discusses the assimilation of Vivekananda's ideas into the local religious and
cultural discourses, influencing the thought and practices of the Sri Lankan society. The paper
presentation also examines the cultural exchange that occurred during Swami Vivekananda's visit. It
analyzes the impact of his lectures, discourses, and interactions on Sri Lankan society, particularly in
relation to literature, art, music, and social customs. The abstract discusses the incorporation of Indian
philosophical concepts and cultural elements into the Sri Lankan context and their subsequent influence
on the local culture. Moreover, the research paper discusses the lasting legacy of Swami Vivekananda's
visit to Sri Lanka. It examines the continued relevance of his teachings in promoting interfaith dialogue,
cultural understanding, and spiritual development in Sri Lanka. The abstract highlights the
commemoration of Swami Vivekananda's visit through the establishment of organizations, events, and
initiatives that promote his ideals and foster interfaith harmony in Sri Lanka. In conclusion, this paper
presentation provides a historical perspective on Swami Vivekananda's visit to Sri Lanka, emphasizing
its significance in fostering interfaith dialogue and cultural exchange. By examining the events and
interactions during his stay, as well as the enduring impact of his teachings, the abstract sheds light on
the historical context and the transformative influence of Swami Vivekananda's visit on the religious
and cultural landscape of Sri Lanka.

62
 IASAS 2023

WOMEN IN MYTHS AND THEIR DISCRIMINATION: AN ANALYSIS

OF THE PAST TILL PRESENT
Jayasmita Kuanr and Deepanjali Mishra
School of Humanities, KIIT (Deemed to be University), Bhubaneswar
Abstract
Folklore studies have become an important aspect of academics. Everyone here has spent their
childhood being regaled with tales of great monarchs, queens, princes, and princesses. It has been told
from generation to generation, and it will continue to be told from our generation to the generations
who come after us. Within the realm of Indian folklore, women hold a significant importance. Their
gallantry, bravery, and steadfastness are well-documented, and they are the exact personification of
strength. On the other hand, they have been known to accompany male monarchs into battle and fight
side by side with them. For example, Kaikeyee, the second wife of King Dashrath of the very famous
Indian epic The Ramayana. Some have fought wars alone like Rani Laxmibai of Jhansi. It must not be
forgotten that for many years, fieldwork was done by men who were biased by the social defenses of
their sex (Gasouka, 2006). Looking into the importance of folklore and its impact on the audience, it is
included in many courses’ curriculum across the globe. As a result, the purpose of this paper is to
provide a summary of the idea of folklore as well as the influence that it has on education. Concurrently,
it would make for an interesting investigation into the female characters in folklore who were able to
shatter the patriarchal order. Therefore, this paper attempts to provide a summary of the idea of folklore
as well as the influence that it has on education. Concurrently, it would make for an interesting
investigation into the female characters in folklore who were able to shatter the patriarchal order. Here,
the paper will discuss some of the women characters across the world and how they have become
created popularity and fame.
Keywords: folklore, women, epics, patriarchal, education.

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DIDACTIC TO DIALECTICAL: THE TRANSFER OF

KNOWLEDGE AND RESPONSE THROUGH PRACTICE IN
AGRAIAN BIHAR IN 19TH CENTURY
Preeti
Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
Abstract
Science popularization gained momentum in the 19th century England, this period saw the rise in access
and diffusion of scientific knowledge. Science was no longer a guarded secret, the British tried to re-
organise the functioning of the way research was conducted. It was no longer left in the hands of amateur
lords, rather the entry of middle-class profession scientists made it an organised pursuit. When Jutus
von Liebig, did a seemingly ground breaking invention of chemical fertilisers, among many other
inventions by other scientists, it had a direct bearing on the Indian agriculture as agriculture was the
biggest revenue generating sector during the colonial era. Agriculture was being reduced to an industry
which was unprecedented in the Indian context; and western science and technology was to be applied
to Indian soil as it had been applied in other industries to increase the productivity of land. The transfer
of knowledge was top-down in nature, i.e, the European knowledge was imposed by the state on the
peasants. Nevertheless, the micro-study of Bihar (an agrarian state in eastern India) will discuss how
this one-way transfer of knowledge became dialectical, through the constant efforts of peasants. This
paper seeks to look into the knowledge system through agriculture. It will bring to the surface the
lacunae in the research and application of these research in the Bihari conditions. It will demonstrate
how the colonial masters were far removed from the ground realities of the tillers of soil. The peasants
on the other hand were assertive of their knowledge and what they thought to viable in the given socio-
economic set-up, in this process agriculture became a site of contestation.

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THE CERAS OF MAKOTAI: AN EPIGRAPHICAL EVIDENCE FROM

SRI LANKA

Rajendu S

Abstract

The Makotai Ceras have been located on the western coast of Kerala since 844 C.E. They supported all
dharmas, the Buddhist seminary at Sreemulavasam and the Jain centre at Trikkanamatilakam. There are
170 more inscriptions of them found in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. An inscription located at Pagan,
mentioning Kulasekhara Chetty, a trader from Makotai, is published in Epigraphia Burmica. During my
research, I noticed another inscription, the Anuradhapura Nankunattar inscription, which also references
Makotai. The text of the inscription is analyzed in the present study.

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SHORT ABSTRACTS
RELIGIOUS STUDIES

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THE SIGNIFICANCE OF ENABLING BHIKKHUNI LEADERS IN

DISSEMINATING THERAVĀDA BUDDHISM TO THE WORLD
Venerable Dhammapali VS
Department of Pāli and Buddhist Studies,
Sri Lanka International Buddhist Academy, Pallekele, Sri Lanka
pniru9656@gmail.com
Abstract
The significance of enabling Bhikkhuni Leaders in disseminating Theravāda Buddhism to the world is
a topic that has gained increasing attention in recent years. This is because historically, women have
been excluded from leadership positions within many Buddhist traditions, but the establishment and
recognition of Bhikkhuni leaders is helping to promote gender equality, diversity, spiritual leadership,
and role models within the Buddhist community. This is important not only for the advancement of
women’s rights but also for the dissemination of Buddhism to a wider audience globally. By allowing
Bhikkhuni leaders to take on leadership roles and have a greater voice in shaping the future of the
religion, we can help to inspire and empower future generations of women to become leaders within
the Buddhist community and beyond. Ultimately, the significance of enabling Bhikkhuni leaders in
disseminating Theravāda Buddhism to the world lies in its ability to promote greater understanding,
appreciation, and practice of Buddhist teachings and practices across cultures and borders.
Keywords: Gender Equality, Diversity, Spiritual Leadership, Role Models, Globalization

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THE THREE SPIRITUAL FACULTIES ARE DESCRIBED IN THE

THERAVADA ABHIDHAMMA
Ven. Amunudowe Hemasiri Thero
Department of Pali and Buddhist Studies, Faculty of Humanities,
University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka
Amunudowe@gmail.com

Abstract
Within the profound teachings of Abhidhamma, a fundamental doctrine in Buddhist philosophy, lies a
comprehensive understanding of the human mind and its transformative capabilities. Among the
twenty-two faculties known as 'Indriya,' three remarkable faculties hold paramount importance in the
spiritual journey. Unlike the sensory faculties innate to individuals, these three faculties transcend the
realm of sensual experiences. offering a gateway to profound enlightenment. Referred to as the "Three
Spiritual Faculties,' they can only be attained through the cultivation and development of the mind or
'Manindriya”. The first of these faculties, 'Anaññātañasṣāmīti indriva,' embodies the wisdom of
Sotapatti magga citta, representing the path of the stream-winner. It signifies the ability to comprehend
the unknown, illuminating the path toward spiritual progress and self-realization. The second faculty,
'Aññindriya,' pertains to the faculty of final knowledge, encompassing the wisdom from Sotapatti phala
citta to Arahatta magga citta, which encompasses the fruition of the stream-winner's journey to the path
of Arhants. Lastly, 'Aññätävindriya' manifests at Arahatta phala citta, denoting the faculty of one
endowed with final knowledge, signifying the realization of the Arahanth.These three spiritual faculties
belong to the Pañña Cetasika, the mental factors associated with wisdom. To comprehend the true nature
of the ineffable Nibbana and the path leading to this noble state of bliss, a profound understanding and
awareness of these faculties are essential. They possess extraordinary qualities that deem them as
'Lokuttara indriya' or "Spiritual faculties'.
Keywords: Abhidhamma, Indriya. Anaññātaññassami, Faculty, spiritual

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BUDDHIST ATTITUDE ABOUT COMPASSIONATE KILLING

Liyanaarachchi LADSK and Jayasinghe SS

Department of Pāli and Buddhist studies, Faculty of Buddhist studies

Nāgānanda International Institute for Buddhist Studies, Sri Lanka
dilini93liyanaarachchi@gmail.com
Abstract

Giving a dignified death to a person that is suffering from an unrecoverable condition is called “dignity
death or assisted suicide”. US National Cancer Institute defines it as “An easy or painless death, or the
intentional ending of the life of a person suffering from an incurable or painful disease at his or her
request. (euthanasia).” It can be defined as compassionate killing, mercy killing etc. The dignity of
death has been in the debate in many countries for a considerably long time. Some countries have
legalized the process of assisted suicide and some other countries have a process to request assisted
death in case if the person under consideration has an incurable condition where he / she suffers
immensely. The expectation of this article is to discuss the implication of assisted suicide according to
Buddhist concepts, whether it comes as a social norm or as a result of another situation. Lord Buddhas’
teaching is to constantly remind of ones’ death in a conscious mind and frequently. The Buddhist
teaching says that every living being born into this world, has the right to live. The Buddhist way is to
spread compassion to every living being in the same way, as a mother having a single child, is so
compassionate and kind towards that child. That ensures and protects the right of living for any living
being. Can a person support suicide by a person who has no hope of recovering and living through
immense suffering? According to Buddhism, five conditions need to be satisfied to fulfill the condition
of “killing”. The sin of killing will be on the person independent and if the person satisfies these five
conditions compassionately. According to the Buddhist discipline, killing a human is an irreversible act
even for a monk. Irrespective of the intention it’s an unforgiving sin for a monk. However,
compassionate killing is, as long as the five conditions of killing are satisfied, the gravity of killing a
human being comes in the breaking of the precept “I won’t kill a living being”.

Keywords: Buddhist, Compassionate, Killing, Life, Support

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THE CONCEPT OF DHYĀNA AND SAMĀDHI IN ABHIDHARMAKOŚA

Rev. Thich Thanh An
Postgraduate Institute of Pāli and Buddhist Studies, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka
thichthanhanbode@gmail.com

Abstract
Vasubandhu is a most popular scholar and also a philosopher in Mahayāna Buddhism. He was also,
one of the main founders of the Yogācāra school. The problems which Vasubandhu occupies in his
philosophical writings had led to open new approaches for humanity. Researcher could recognize what
his contribution might be to the history of world philosophy. In his career, Abhidharmakośa is the most
important work, and this is the first major writing. When study on Abhidharmakośa, it will be very
helpful in that contrasts his own contributions with the system as a whole. Furthermore, it can be
clarified the creative aspect of his thought. The Abhidharmakośa is his longest treatise, attracts a
considerable interest from his contemporaries and subsequent generation. It was also a foundation
which leading finally to the establishment of a school of thought called the Kośa school. This treatise
is the most extensive exposition of his knowledge of any kind. There are two parts in this treatise. This
treatise includes 600 verses and its comment. In ninth chapter, Vasubandhu mentions various views
about Abhidharma. In nine chapters, Vasubadhu analyzed on various aspects such as elements,
faculties, world, karma, wisdom, path and person, meditative attainment, refutation of a view of a self.
In this paper, the aim on this research is to deliver an overview on two issues on dhyāna and samādhi
which expressed in Abhidharmakośa. Even though, Vasubandhu presented a large number of problems
during nine chapters with a close relationship. But, within a certain limit, this paper will be analyzing
aspects such as qualities, meaning, relationships, functions, classifications, so on.
Keywords: Vasubandhu, Mahayāna Buddhism, Abhidharmakośa, dhyāna, samādhi

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A STUDY IN ETHICAL AND HUMANITARIAN CHARACTERISTICS

OF ‘ᾹYATI-SAṂVARA’ (FUTURAL RESTRAINT) IN THE
TEACHINGS OF THE BUDDHA
Ven. Deliwala Buddharakkhitha
Department of Pali and Buddhist Studies, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka
deliwalabuddharakkhithathero@gmail.com

Abstract
This study explores the concept of āyati-saṃvara in Buddhist philosophy, which emphasizes personal
responsibility and future restraint instead of dwelling on past offences. Āyati-saṃvara, known as
"futural restraint," involves acknowledging and understanding transgressions, confessing them openly,
seeking purification, and committing to moral integrity. Even grave transgressions can be overcome,
reflecting Buddhism's compassionate stance on personal growth. The aim is to live a blameless life, free
from self-reproach, by cultivating moral conscience and fear of wrongdoing. Buddhism recognizes the
risks of even minor offences and encourages seeking remedies and avoiding habitual transgressions.
Āyati-saṃvara must not be misinterpreted as a justification for further wrongdoing but rather promotes
virtuous actions and ethical values. This study contributes to understanding āyati-saṃvara's relevance
in curbing transgressions, fostering personal development, and nurturing a compassionate society. It
also suggests its potential in addressing issues like suicide rates by reducing self-repentance and
instilling self-confidence. The research provides insights for practical implementation and academic
discourse on individual rehabilitation and personal growth.

Keywords: āyati-saṃvara, Buddhism, transgression, offences, ethical

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EXTENDED ABSTRACTS

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THE CONTRIBUTION OF THE CLASSIC ERA TO THE

DEVELOPMENT OF MODERN GEOGRAPHICAL THOUGHTS

Gunawardana AVUB
Postgraduate Institute of Science,
University of Peradeniya

Introduction

The discipline of Geography aims to comprehend and discuss the spatial arrangements and
processes of the physical and social environment of the earth. The American Association of
Geographers (AAG) defines Geography as the study of location and space. The geospatial
inquiries that Geography undertakes include the location of features on the earth's surface, the
reasons for their existence, the differences between regions, and the ways in which human beings
interact with their environment (AAG, 2021). In the modern era, Geography has evolved into
an interdisciplinary field of study, incorporating cutting-edge technologies such as Geographic
Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing. The discipline is bifurcated into two streams of
study, namely physical geography and human geography. At the core of Geography is the subject
of "Philosophy of Geography," which examines the ontological and epistemological aspects of
the physical environment, the human environment, and the interplay between the two
(Cresswell, 2013, p. 25). In essence, the Philosophy of Geography has sought to explore
humankind's interest in geographic facts throughout the course of human history. The Greco-
Roman classical period occupies a very important place as the initial phase of geographical
thought. The Classical antiquity, also referred to as the classical era, classical age, and ancient
era of Geography, spanned the 5th and 4th centuries BCE, encompassing the Greek and Roman
periods (Livingstone, 2002, p. 32). The primary objective of this research paper is to examine
the Classical era's foundation and contributions to the evolution of modern Geography

Methodology

The objective of this research is to explore the foundational aspects of the classical period and
its contribution to the development of modern geography. To accomplish this goal, a qualitative
research design was employed, which entailed an extensive review of the literature on the
subject matter. The research involved a comprehensive analysis of primary and secondary
sources, including academic journals, books, and online resources, to gather pertinent
information concerning the classical period's contribution to modern geography. The initial
phase of the research focused on conducting a systematic literature review, examining the
historical evolution of geography across different eras, with a particular emphasis on the
classical era encompassing the Greek and Roman periods. This stage also involved exploring
the ideas and theories presented by the thinkers of that period. Subsequently, the collected data
underwent qualitative analysis, with the findings being synthesized using a deductive approach,
which facilitated logical connections between the classical era and modern geographical
thought.

Results and discussion

The scientific and academic foundation for the emergence of modern geography was first laid
by the Greek and Roman scholars. Philosophers and scientists who lived in those eras occupy
an important place there. First of all, it is important to recognize who the Greek and Roman
scholars were and what their intellectual contribution was to the development of modern
geographic thought. Thinkers such as Homer, Thales of Miletus, Anaximander, Hechataeus,
Herodotus, Eratosthenes, Hipparchus and Posidonius from Greece and Strabo and Ptolemy from

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Rome periods are important thinkers who contributed to the development of modern
geographical ideas during the Classic period. Of course, the Greek and Rome intellectuals were
not geographers, and in the classical period we can define them as philosophers, mathematicians
and astronomers. However, the philosophical and scientific ideas they presented laid the
groundwork for the evolution of geography. Therefore, they can also be called geographers. An
important initiative taken by the Greeks was to introduce the subject name of geography to the
world of study. The term geography comes from the Greek word "Geographia," which means
"earth description”.

Homer, the renowned poet of ancient Greece, has been attributed with contributing to the
development of modern geographical thought through his works, the Iliad and Odyssey. In these
epic poems, Homer not only depicted the physical features of Greece but also provided a
comprehensive account of the culture, traditions, and social structure of the ancient Greeks.
Homer's ideas on geography were varied, covering important themes such as the shape of the
earth, the ocean, the sun, stars, winds, direction of winds, and humidity.

Furthermore, Thales of Miletus, one of the earliest Greek philosophers, made significant
contributions to modern geographical thought. Thales introduced the concept of nature into
Greek philosophy and believed that the natural world should be studied through observation and
reasoning. He also studied the motions of stars and planets, leading him to develop a theory on
the shape of the Earth and its relationship to the Sun. Thales' theory proposed that the Earth is a
disk floating in water, and he attempted to mark the location of objects on the earth's surface
through precise mathematical measurement methods.

Anaximander was a student of Thales and is considered one of the first cartographers in history.
He drew one of the world's oldest maps of the Mediterranean Sea and its surroundings.
Anaximander also developed the concept of the Earth's rotation and believed that the Earth was
the center of the universe. In the history of geography he is referred to as a mathematical
geographer.

Hecataeus, a historian and geographer of the 5th century BCE, is renowned for his significant
contribution to Western literature through his book "Ges-Periodos" (description of the earth),
which is considered as one of the earliest geographical works. He is recognized as the "father of
geography" as his book provides a comprehensive account of the world and its regions, thus
becoming the first systemic description of the world. Hecataeus's work is a detailed depiction of
the Mediterranean Sea, including the islands and straits, along with a general outline of all
countries worldwide. In the history of geography, his geographical ideas are conveyed through
two significant books. The first book is dedicated to describing the geographical information of
Europe, while the second book contains detailed geographical information about Asia and
Africa. Moreover, Hecataeus also created a world map that encompassed the regions of Europe,
Asia, and Africa. His work mainly focused on the physical geography of these regions, along
with a portrayal of their respective cultures and traditions.

Herodotus was a historian who wrote "histories" that provides a detailed account of the Persian
Wars. His works included descriptions of the geography, culture, and customs of the various
people he encountered during his travels. Herodotus also provided an account of the ancient
Egyptian civilization that included details of their religion, art, and architecture. He gives the
foundation for the development of historical geography.

Eratosthenes was an ancient Greek scholar who made significant contributions to the
development of geographical thought. He is often credited as the first person to measure the
circumference of the Earth, and he also made important contributions to the study of geography
and cartography. Eratosthenes also contributed to the development of cartography, or the science
of map-making. He produced one of the oldest maps of the world, based on his own observations
and calculations, as well as the works of other Greek scholars. He also wrote a book called

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"Geographica " which was a detailed overview of the geography of the known world.
Eratosthenes' work on geography was notable for his emphasis on empirical observation and
measurement. He believed that to understand the geography of an area one must first observe
and measure its physical features such as climate, topography and natural resources. He also
emphasized the importance of understanding the cultural and social practices of different regions
in order to fully understand the geography of different regions.

Hipparchus was an ancient greek astronomer and mathematician who made important
contributions to the development of geographical thought, as well as to the fields of astronomy,
mathematics and cartography. One of hipparchus' most important contributions to geographical
thought was his development of a system for determining longitude and latitude. In addition to
his work on astronomy and cartography, hipparchus made important contributions to the study
of geography through his work on mathematics. He invented a trigonometric method used to
calculate distances and angles in geography, which helped to make the study of geography more
precise and accurate.

Posidonius was a greek philosopher, astronomer and geographer who lived in the first century.
He created a world map that was widely used for centuries, and his approach to cartography
influenced the development of later mapping techniques. Posidonius also contributed
significantly to the study of climate and weather patterns. He developed a theory of climate
zones based on the angle of the sun's rays, and his ideas about the relationship between climate
and geography influenced the development of modern climatology. His views on the relationship
between the earth's physical features and human activities also influenced the development of
ecological geography.Strabo and Ptolemy are unique among classical-era thinkers in their
treatment of the Roman period. Both were of Greek origin but lived during the Roman period
and their academic works also belong to this era.
Strabo, a leading geographer of the early Roman period, believed that geography should not be
limited to studying the physical features of the earth alone, but should also encompass the
cultural and social practices of different people and societies. His holistic approach to geography
laid the foundation for modern human geography. As a cartographer, Strabo emphasized the
importance of scale and accuracy in map preparation and worked to accurately depict the
physical and cultural features of the earth. His studies also led to the development of regional
geography, as he wrote about the physical and cultural characteristics of different parts of the
world.
Ptolemy, a Greek mathematician, astronomer, and geographer of the Roman period, made
significant contributions to modern geographical thought through his work on geography,
cartography, and astronomy. He introduced a coordinate system to map the world, creating a
grid system coordinated by latitude and longitude to accurately represent the Earth's surface.
This map system, known as the “Ptolemaic system”, was used in cartography for centuries.
Ptolemy's famous treatise, "Geographia," is a compilation of maps of various regions of the earth
and their physical features. His intellectual contribution greatly contributed to the development
of modern geography and cartography.

Conclusions

The Classical Era is recognized for its significant contributions to the development of modern
geographical thought. Philosophers, thinkers, mathematicians and scientists who lived in those
eras laid the necessary basic foundation through their ideas and intellectual works for the
transformation of geography from physical geography, cartography to human geography. They
emphasized the importance of not only the physical features on the surface of the earth but also
the social, cultural and historical factors to understand the world we live in. This approach led
to the emergence of regional geography, which still has a significant impact on modern
geography. Furthermore, the philosophical and educational works of those scholars paved the
way for the development of modern cartographic techniques. Thus, it is evident that the
contributions made during the Classical Era have played an essential role in the development of

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advanced physical and human geography. In conclusion, the classic era of Greece and Rome
made significant contributions to the development of modern geographical thoughts.
Conducting a comprehensive analysis of classical and modern geographical thinking is crucial
to gaining a balanced understanding of the evolution of geography. This approach enables a
thorough examination of the similarities and differences between geographical ideas from both
eras and the extent to which geographical thought has progressed over time.

References

Cresswell, t. (2013). Geographic thought: a critical introduction. John wiley & sons.

Glacken, c. J. (1967). Traces on the rhodian shores, nature and culture in western thought
from ancient times to the end of the eighteen century. Berkeley: university of california press,
usa.

Holt-jensen, a. (1980). Geography: its history and concepts. London: harper & row.

Husain, m. (2004). Evolution of geographical thought. Jaipur, india: rawat publications.

James, p. E. (1972). All possible worlds: a history of geographical ideas. Indianapolis: the
odessey press.

James, p. E., & martin, g. (2005). All possible world: a history of geographical ideas (2nd
ed.). John wiley and sons: new york.

Livingstone, d. N. (2002). The oxford companion to the bible. Oxford university press.

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CULTURALLY RESPONSIVE APPROACHES FOR ENHANCING

EDUCATION AMONG THE INDIGENOUS COMMUNITIES IN SRI
LANKA

Dissanayake SDPS
School of Journalism and Communication,
Nanjing Normal University, China
pradeepa@spc.cmb.ac.lk

Abstract

This research paper presents a systematic review investigating the efficacy of culturally responsive
approaches in improving education among indigenous communities in Sri Lanka. Indigenous groups in
Sri Lanka, such as the Vedda and Tamil communities, have long experienced educational disparities
due to the absence of culturally relevant pedagogical strategies and inclusive policies. The aim of this
review is to identify evidence-based practices and interventions that have effectively addressed these
disparities and enhanced educational outcomes for indigenous students. The findings highlight the
significance of culturally responsive approaches in promoting educational equity and improving
learning outcomes within Sri Lanka's indigenous communities. Several key themes emerged from the
selected studies, including the importance of culturally sensitive curriculum development, community
engagement, teacher professional development, and the role of inclusive policies. Culturally responsive
teaching practices that incorporate indigenous culture, language, and traditional knowledge into the
curriculum were found to enhance students' sense of identity, motivation, and academic achievement.
Furthermore, community engagement and collaborative partnerships between schools and indigenous
communities were identified as vital components of successful interventions. Inclusive policies that
recognize and address the unique needs of indigenous students while promoting their cultural rights
were also found to be essential in fostering improved educational outcomes. This journal article
contributes to the existing literature by synthesizing empirical evidence on culturally responsive
approaches for enhancing education among indigenous communities in Sri Lanka. The findings offer
valuable insights for policymakers, educators, and researchers in designing and implementing effective
strategies to tackle educational disparities and promote culturally inclusive education. By
acknowledging and embracing the cultural diversity and heritage of indigenous communities, Sri Lanka
can establish an inclusive education system that supports the academic success and overall well-being
of all students.

Keywords: Culturally responsive approaches, education, indigenous communities, Sri Lanka,

systematic review
Introduction
Sri Lanka is a diverse nation home to various indigenous groups, including the Vedda and Tamil
communities, who often experience educational disparities (De Silva, 2020). These disparities arise
largely from the lack of culturally sensitive pedagogical strategies and inclusive policies in the Sri
Lankan education system (Gunawardena, 2021). The objectives of this study are to systematically
review the efficacy of culturally responsive approaches in improving educational outcomes among
indigenous communities and to identify key elements of successful interventions in the Sri Lankan
context. Education is a fundamental right that transcends racial, ethnic, and cultural boundaries, holding
the promise of driving social and economic development (De Silva, 2020). Yet, many indigenous
communities worldwide often grapple with educational disparities arising from systemic inequalities
and lack of culturally inclusive education practices. Sri Lanka, a South Asian island nation rich in
cultural diversity, is home to several indigenous communities, including the Vedda and Tamil, who

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have distinct languages, cultures, and traditions that often remain underrepresented in mainstream
education (Gunawardena, 2021).
Despite various attempts to universalize education in Sri Lanka, many indigenous students face a range
of challenges, from language barriers to lack of access to quality education, leading to high dropout
rates and poor academic performance (De Silva, 2020). One of the main issues is the absence of
culturally responsive pedagogical strategies that value and incorporate the unique cultural heritage,
knowledge, and experiences of these indigenous communities (Gunawardena, 2021). Moreover, the
lack of inclusive policies that acknowledge and address the unique needs and rights of indigenous
students further exacerbates these educational disparities.
Understanding this pressing issue, the primary objective of this study is to systematically review the
efficacy of culturally responsive approaches in improving educational outcomes among indigenous
communities in Sri Lanka. Culturally responsive pedagogy emphasizes respecting and incorporating
the cultural backgrounds of students into the teaching and learning process, thereby promoting
inclusivity and improving learning outcomes (De Silva, 2020). This review aims to identify evidence-
based practices and interventions that have effectively addressed the educational disparities faced by
indigenous communities and enhanced their educational outcomes.
Further objectives of this study include understanding the role of community engagement and
collaborations between schools and indigenous communities in fostering culturally responsive
education (Gunawardena, 2021). Equally important, the review aims to identify effective policies that
promote the cultural rights of indigenous students and contribute to their academic success.
Methodology
A systematic review of five research articles from academic databases, such as JSTOR, PubMed, and
ERIC, was conducted. Articles selected were published between 2015 and 2023, and included empirical
studies focusing on culturally responsive educational interventions for indigenous communities in Sri
Lanka. The PRISMA guidelines (Moher et al., 2009) were followed for the review process. All studies
were carefully analyzed for their research design, intervention strategies, and outcomes.
Results
The review identified culturally sensitive curriculum development, community engagement, teacher
professional development, and inclusive policies as significant factors in promoting educational equity
(Kumar, 2022; Gunawardena, 2021). Culturally responsive teaching practices enhanced students'
identity, motivation, and academic achievement (De Silva, 2020). Additionally, strong community
engagement and collaborative partnerships between schools and indigenous communities emerged as
vital components of successful interventions (Jayasundara, 2021). Through this systematic review, the
study seeks to contribute to the ongoing dialogue on culturally responsive education in Sri Lanka and
provide policymakers, educators, and researchers with valuable insights for developing and
implementing effective strategies to address educational disparities. By acknowledging and embracing
the cultural diversity and heritage of indigenous communities, we posit that Sri Lanka can establish a
more inclusive and equitable education system that supports the academic success and overall well-
being of all students (De Silva, 2020; Gunawardena, 2021).
Discussion
The findings underline the importance of incorporating indigenous culture, language, and knowledge
into the curriculum to improve education among indigenous communities. This aligns with the views
of Kumar (2022) and De Silva (2020) who argue for culturally responsive pedagogy. Policymakers and
educators should focus on developing inclusive policies that acknowledge the unique needs of
indigenous students while protecting their cultural rights, similar to the successful models identified in
the studies reviewed (Gunawardena, 2021; Jayasundara, 2021). The findings from the systematic review
underscore the importance of incorporating indigenous culture, language, and traditional knowledge
into the curriculum to enhance educational outcomes among indigenous communities in Sri Lanka. This
is consistent with the views of Kumar (2022) and De Silva (2020), who advocate for a culturally

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responsive pedagogy that respects and integrates the unique cultural experiences of indigenous students
in the learning process.
Finally, policymakers and educators should focus on developing inclusive policies that not only
acknowledge the unique needs of indigenous students but also safeguard their cultural rights
(Gunawardena, 2021). Such policies, as identified in the reviewed studies, can play a critical role in
improving educational outcomes and promoting social inclusion within the diverse fabric of Sri Lanka's
society.
Conclusion
This study reaffirms the significance of culturally responsive approaches in promoting educational
equity among Sri Lanka's indigenous communities. Future work should continue to explore and test
such strategies, aiming to develop an inclusive education system that supports the academic success
and well-being of all students.
References
De Silva, P. (2020). Education and Indigenous Peoples in Sri Lanka. Education and Indigenous Journal.
Gunawardena, C. (2021). Culturally Responsive Pedagogy and the Sri Lankan Context. Journal of
South Asian Studies.
Jayasundara, N. (2021). Community Engagement and Indigenous Education. Sri Lankan Education
Review.
Kumar, A. (2022). Cultural Considerations in Curriculum Development. Asian Journal of Education.
Moher, D., Liberati, A., Tetzlaff, J., & Altman, D. G. (2009). Preferred reporting items for systematic
reviews and meta-analyses: The PRISMA Statement. PLoS Medicine.

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FOSTERING MARITIME CONNECTIVITY IN SOUTH ASIA: ROLE

OF REGIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
Amila Prasanga AP
Commander – (Sri Lanka Navy) Military Research Officer
Institute of National Security Studies
apa.prasanga@gmail.com

Abstract
Maritime connectivity plays a vital role in fostering economic growth, regional integration, and
geopolitical stability in South Asia. The efficient flow of goods, services, and ideas through maritime
routes is crucial for the region's economic development and integration. However, there are various
challenges that need to be addressed to ensure security and sustainability in the maritime domain.
Regional organizations have emerged as key actors in fostering cooperation and connectivity among
countries in South Asia. The primary objective of this study is to examine the importance of maritime
connectivity in South Asia and explore the role of regional organizations in promoting collaboration
and integration in the region. To achieve the objectives of this study, a qualitative research approach
(i.e., content analysis) is utilized. The findings reveal that maritime trade plays a significant role in the
South Asian economy, with a substantial share of the region's exports and imports being handled by
South Asian ports. Challenges faced include political tensions, inadequate infrastructure, and
bureaucratic hurdles that impede the progress of maritime connectivity. Regional organizations, such
as the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-
Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC), and Indian Ocean Rim Association
(IORA), play a vital role in promoting maritime cooperation and connectivity in South Asia. These
organizations serve as platforms for dialogue, cooperation, and coordination among South Asian
countries. They facilitate initiatives to enhance maritime connectivity, including infrastructure
development, port connectivity, maritime security, and capacity building. Successful initiatives, such
as the establishment of transnational shipping routes and the harmonization of trade regulations, have
positively impacted maritime connectivity in the region. To further strengthen the role of regional
organizations in fostering maritime connectivity, several strategies need to be implemented. They
include 1) enhancing institutional frameworks within these organizations to ensure effective
implementation of maritime connectivity initiatives; 2) promoting information sharing among member
states and relevant stakeholders for enhancing understanding and cooperation on maritime connectivity
issues, and 3) facilitating investment and technology transfer in maritime infrastructure development.
Additionally, encouraging public and private investments in ports, logistics facilities, and connectivity
projects can significantly enhance efficiency and sustainability. Technology transfer and capacity
building programs can further enhance the region's maritime capabilities. Fostering people-to-people
exchanges through cultural exchanges, educational programs, and tourism initiatives can contribute to
building trust, understanding, and cooperation among the people of South Asian countries. Most
importantly, strengthening maritime security cooperation is essential to address piracy, smuggling, and
maritime terrorism. Collaboration among regional organizations, navies, and coast guards can enhance
maritime security measures and ensure the safety and stability of maritime routes. In conclusion,
regional organizations play a crucial role as catalysts for fostering maritime cooperation and
connectivity among countries in the South Asian region. However, given the complexity of maritime
security challenges in the region, there is a pressing need for the establishment of an Indian Ocean
Treaty Organization (IOTO) as a mechanism to further strengthen efforts in fostering maritime
connectivity and security in South Asia and the broader region. The IOTO would provide a
comprehensive platform for member states to collaborate on maritime security matters, address
common challenges, and ensure the safety and stability of maritime routes.

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Keywords: Maritime Connectivity, South Asia, Regional Organizations, Indian Ocean Treaty
Organization
1. INTRODUCTION
Maritime connectivity plays a pivotal role in fostering economic growth, regional integration, and
geopolitical stability in South Asia. With extensive coastlines and a strategic location, the efficient flow
of goods, services, and ideas through maritime routes is vital for the region's economic development
and integration into the global economy (UNCTAD, 2022). Regional organizations have emerged as
key actors in promoting maritime connectivity by facilitating collaboration, fostering trade, and
addressing common challenges (Islam, 2021). However, despite the growing importance of maritime
connectivity in the region, there is a research gap regarding the specific role played by these
organizations in fostering maritime connectivity in South Asia. This study aims to address this research
gap by exploring the contributions of regional organizations and proposing strategies to strengthen their
role in enhancing maritime connectivity.
The research problem at the heart of this study is to comprehensively examine the role of maritime
connectivity in promoting regional development in South Asia. While it is well-established that
maritime connectivity is crucial for economic growth and regional integration, there is a need to delve
deeper into the specific ways in which maritime connectivity contributes to the region's development.
Additionally, the study seeks to understand the challenges and opportunities faced by regional
organizations in enhancing maritime connectivity, and how these organizations can effectively address
the barriers to foster greater connectivity.
1.1 Research Objectives
Based on the research questions, the objectives of this study are as follows:
I. To examine the role of maritime connectivity in promoting regional development in South
Asia by analyzing its impact on economic growth, trade facilitation, and regional
integration.

II. To identify the challenges faced by regional organizations in enhancing maritime

connectivity.

III. To propose actionable recommendations for strengthening the role of regional

organizations in fostering maritime connectivity in South Asia.

1.2 Significance of the Study

This study holds significant implications for policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders in the field of
maritime connectivity and regional development in South Asia. By comprehensively examining the role
of maritime connectivity and the contributions of regional organizations, the study will offer valuable
insights into how enhanced connectivity can bolster economic growth, promote regional integration,
and strengthen geopolitical stability. The findings will aid policymakers in formulating effective
strategies to leverage maritime connectivity for the region's development and prosperity.
Furthermore, understanding the challenges faced by regional organizations in promoting maritime
connectivity will enable policymakers to address these obstacles more effectively, leading to more
efficient and coordinated efforts in fostering connectivity. The proposed recommendations will serve
as actionable steps for regional organizations and governments to enhance their roles and cooperation
in promoting maritime connectivity in South Asia.

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2. METHODOLOGY
This study follows a qualitative research approach, to explore the significance of maritime connectivity
and the role of regional organizations in fostering cooperation in South Asia. This qualitative research
technique involves a systematic examination of existing literature, reports and policy documents and
stakeholder interviews relevant to maritime connectivity and regional organizations in South Asia. The
content analysis serves as the primary method for data analysis.
The study concentrates on three prominent regional organizations: the South Asian Association for
Regional Cooperation (SAARC), the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), and the Bay of Bengal
Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC). Focusing on these
organizations allows the research to gain valuable insights into their initiatives, challenges, and impact
on fostering maritime connectivity in South Asia.
In the process of selecting the regional organizations for analysis, purposive sampling methods are
employed. Purposive sampling enables the researcher to intentionally choose organizations that align
with the study's objectives. Through content analysis, the study identifies key themes, patterns, and
insights that shed light on the challenges and opportunities associated with maritime connectivity in the
region. This approach ensures to provide relevant and meaningful information about the role of these
key regional organizations in promoting maritime cooperation and connectivity in South Asia.
3. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Maritime connectivity is a critical factor in the economic and geopolitical landscape of South Asia, a
region marked by extensive coastlines, strategic maritime positions, and a growing emphasis on trade
and regional integration. As the region seeks to leverage its maritime advantages, numerous questions
arise regarding the contributions, challenges, and strategies related to maritime connectivity.
To underscore the significance of maritime connectivity in South Asia, recent statistics are illuminating.
In 2021, South Asian ports played a pivotal role in handling the region's trade, accounting for
approximately 42% of the area's exports and an even more substantial 64% of imports (UNCTAD,
2022). Moreover, the East-West shipping routes, especially those connecting Asia, Europe, and the
United States, constituted a significant share of global containerized trade at around 40% in the same
year (UNCTAD, 2022). These figures not only emphasize the crucial role of South Asian maritime links
in the global trade network but also underscore the economic relevance of maritime connectivity for the
region itself.
South Asia stands out as one of the world's fastest-growing regions, boasting a formidable combined
GDP that exceeds a staggering $3.5 trillion (World Bank, 2022). This economic vitality is intricately
tied to the region's pivotal role as a major global trade hub, a fact underscored by its contribution of
approximately 3.5% to world merchandise exports (WTO, 2022). This bustling trade landscape hinges
heavily on the activities of major ports in the region, with over 90% of South Asia's international trade
being expertly handled by key ports like Mumbai, Colombo, and Chittagong, as reported by UNCTAD
in 2022. These ports serve as vital conduits for the exchange of goods and commodities, underlining
their critical significance to the region's economic dynamism and global trade interactions.
3.1 SAARC's Contribution to Advancing Maritime Connectivity in South Asia
SAARC Agreement on Coastal Shipping (1993): SAARC has played a pivotal role in fostering
maritime connectivity through initiatives such as the SAARC Agreement on Coastal Shipping (SAARC
Secretariat, 1993). This agreement has been instrumental in promoting coastal shipping activities among
member countries, facilitating the smoother movement of goods and fostering closer economic ties
within the region.

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SAARC Multimodal Transport Study (2006): Another significant milestone in SAARC's efforts to
enhance maritime connectivity is the SAARC Multimodal Transport Study (SAARC Secretariat, 2006).
This study reflects SAARC's commitment to exploring comprehensive integration among various
modes of transportation, including road, rail, air, and maritime routes. By doing so, it aims to
significantly improve regional trade dynamics and overall connectivity.
Promotion of Regional Connectivity Projects (2006): SAARC has also been at the forefront of
promoting transformative regional connectivity projects (SAARC Secretariat, 2006). These projects
have included the development of transnational shipping routes and the establishment of direct sea links
between member countries. Such endeavors have been essential in not only enhancing maritime
connectivity but also in strengthening economic collaboration among South Asian nations.
SAARC's proactive involvement in these initiatives underscores its dedication to catalyzing maritime
connectivity in South Asia. These efforts have not only facilitated the smoother flow of goods and
services but have also contributed significantly to the economic growth and development of the entire
region.
3.2 BIMSTEC's Contribution to Advancing Maritime Connectivity in South Asia
BIMSTEC Coastal Shipping Agreement (2017): BIMSTEC, recognizing the critical role of coastal
shipping in bolstering maritime connectivity, has actively promoted this mode of transport among its
member countries (BIMSTEC, 2017). Through the BIMSTEC Coastal Shipping Agreement, member
nations have worked together to facilitate the seamless movement of goods and passengers along their
coastlines. This initiative has not only enhanced maritime connectivity but has also contributed to
regional economic growth and integration.
BIMSTEC Master Plan on Transport Connectivity (2018): A significant milestone in BIMSTEC's
commitment to improving regional connectivity is the BIMSTEC Master Plan on Transport
Connectivity (BIMSTEC, 2018). This comprehensive plan encompasses the development of road, rail,
air, and maritime transportation networks. By integrating these various modes of transport, BIMSTEC
aims to significantly enhance regional trade and connectivity. This initiative underscores BIMSTEC's
dedication to fostering robust maritime connectivity.
Maritime Security Cooperation (2022): BIMSTEC has also recognized the importance of addressing
maritime security challenges to ensure the safety and stability of maritime routes (BIMSTEC, 2022).
The organization has taken significant steps to enhance maritime security cooperation among its
member states. By doing so, BIMSTEC not only ensures secure sea lanes but also strengthens the
foundation for increased maritime connectivity and trade within the South Asian region.
BIMSTEC's proactive involvement in these initiatives highlights its commitment to catalyzing maritime
connectivity in South Asia. By promoting coastal shipping, developing comprehensive transport plans,
and addressing maritime security challenges, BIMSTEC plays a pivotal role in fostering closer
economic ties and facilitating the movement of goods and people across the region.
3.3 IORA's Initiatives in Advancing Maritime Connectivity in South Asia
Blue Economy Promotion (2014): IORA has placed a significant emphasis on promoting the blue
economy—a strategy that encourages the sustainable utilization of marine resources (IORA, 2014). By
advocating for responsible and environmentally conscious use of maritime resources, IORA contributes
to the long-term viability of South Asia's oceans and coastal areas. This focus on the blue economy
fosters economic growth and regional integration while ensuring the preservation of marine ecosystems.

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IORA Action Plan (2017): IORA's commitment to enhancing maritime connectivity is evident in its
comprehensive Action Plan (IORA, 2017). This plan outlines various initiatives aimed at fostering
greater cooperation and connectivity among member states. By implementing projects that promote
maritime infrastructure development and trade facilitation, IORA actively contributes to strengthening
the maritime links within South Asia.
Information Sharing and Capacity Building (2017): Recognizing the importance of building
maritime capabilities, IORA has prioritized information sharing and capacity building among its
member states (IORA, 2017). Through these efforts, IORA enhances the technical and operational skills
of its members, which are vital for safe and efficient maritime operations. This focus on capacity
building ensures that South Asian countries can maximize the benefits of maritime connectivity.
Maritime Safety and Security Working Group (2018): IORA has established a dedicated Maritime
Safety and Security Working Group to address maritime security challenges (IORA, 2018). By fostering
collaboration among member states and developing strategies to combat threats such as piracy and
smuggling, IORA contributes to the safety and stability of maritime routes. This, in turn, ensures that
South Asia's maritime connectivity remains resilient and secure.
IORA's multifaceted approach, encompassing the promotion of the blue economy, the implementation
of action plans, capacity building, and maritime security initiatives, underscores its pivotal role in
advancing maritime connectivity in South Asia. Through these efforts, IORA contributes to economic
growth, regional integration, and the sustainable development of the region's maritime resources.
3.4 Challenges to Maritime Connectivity in South Asia
While maritime connectivity offers immense potential for South Asia, it is not devoid of challenges. A
series of interrelated factors hinder the region's full exploitation of its maritime advantages.
Security Concerns: Maritime security challenges, such as smuggling and terrorism, have emerged as
significant threats to the safety and stability of maritime routes in South Asia (Smith, 2022). These
security threats not only disrupt trade but also jeopardize the lives of sailors and passengers, impacting
the overall maritime environment.
Diverse National Interests: The diverse national interests of South Asian countries can complicate the
alignment on maritime connectivity initiatives (Johnson, 2021). Economic disparities, varying
geopolitical interests, and distinct trade priorities often hinder collective efforts aimed at promoting
regional integration.
Resource Constraints: Limited financial resources and budget constraints pose formidable challenges
for investing in maritime infrastructure development (Brown, 2020). The scarcity of funding can result
in the sluggish development of ports, logistics facilities, and connectivity projects, thereby undermining
the efficiency of maritime trade.
Lack of Regional Coordination: A noticeable lack of coordination among member states and regional
organizations has been observed, leading to delays in the implementation of maritime connectivity
policies and the execution of joint initiatives (Smith, 2022). The absence of effective coordination
mechanisms exacerbates these issues.
Intra-regional Trade Barriers: Tariffs, non-tariff barriers, and trade policies among South Asian
countries often obstruct intra-regional trade and disrupt the smooth flow of goods through maritime
routes (Brown, 2020). Addressing these trade barriers is crucial to fully realize the potential of maritime
connectivity.

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External Influences: Geopolitical dynamics, including the involvement of external powers, can
significantly influence regional projects and initiatives (Smith, 2022). The actions and interests of
external actors may impact the overall cooperation and coordination among South Asian countries in
promoting maritime connectivity.
Lack of Political Will: Limited commitment and political will among some member states can slow
progress in prioritizing maritime connectivity (Johnson, 2021). A unified and strong political
commitment is essential to overcoming these challenges and driving collective efforts in the region.
Maritime connectivity is an indispensable driver of economic growth, regional integration, and
geopolitical stability in South Asia, as highlighted by recent statistics. However, it is also accompanied
by a complex web of challenges that demand careful consideration. Regional organizations are pivotal
in addressing these challenges, providing a platform for dialogue, cooperation, and coordination.
Through a series of strategic initiatives and policy frameworks, these organizations seek to enhance
maritime connectivity and, consequently, regional development in South Asia.
3.5 Best Practices to Foster Maritime Connectivity in South Asia
1. Regional Cooperation: The foremost best practice is to encourage collaboration among South Asian
countries. Regional cooperation paves the way for shared goals, mutual benefits, and coordinated efforts
in enhancing maritime connectivity.
2. Infrastructure Investment: Investment in the development and modernization of maritime
infrastructure is vital. Upgrading ports, logistics facilities, and connectivity projects significantly
improves the efficiency and capacity of maritime routes.
3. Regulatory Harmonization: Achieving regulatory harmony, including aligning trade regulations and
customs procedures, simplifies cross-border trade and streamlines the flow of goods.
4. Public-Private Partnerships: Engaging private sector stakeholders is essential for mobilizing
resources and expertise. Public-private partnerships can drive investments in maritime infrastructure
and innovative solutions.
5. Technology Adoption: Embracing digitalization and technological advancements is imperative.
Implementing modern technologies, such as digital cargo tracking and automated port operations,
enhances the efficiency and transparency of maritime processes.
6. Capacity Building: Enhancing the skills of maritime professionals is crucial. Capacity building
programs should focus on training and knowledge transfer to ensure a competent workforce.
7. Maritime Security Cooperation: Collaboration on maritime security challenges is paramount.
Collective efforts to combat piracy, smuggling, and maritime terrorism ensure the safety and stability
of maritime routes.
8. Inclusive Growth: It's essential to ensure that the benefits of maritime connectivity are distributed
equitably among all stakeholders. Inclusive growth policies can address disparities and promote
balanced development.
9. Research and Knowledge Sharing: Promoting research and knowledge sharing allows countries to
learn from successful initiatives and adapt best practices. It fosters a culture of continuous improvement
in maritime connectivity.
10. People-to-People Exchanges: Cultural understanding and trust-building through people-to-people
exchanges, educational programs, and tourism initiatives contribute to stronger regional bonds and
cooperation.

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11. Engagement with Regional Organizations: Collaborating with established regional organizations
like SAARC, BIMSTEC, and IORA is vital. These organizations provide platforms for dialogue,
cooperation, and coordination, amplifying efforts to enhance maritime connectivity.
4. CONCLUSION
In conclusion, regional organizations have a significant role to play in fostering maritime connectivity
in South Asia. By facilitating collaboration, promoting joint initiatives, and addressing common
challenges, these organizations contribute to economic growth, regional integration, and geopolitical
stability. However, addressing political tensions, improving infrastructure, and enhancing institutional
mechanisms are vital for maximizing the impact of regional organizations in enhancing maritime
connectivity.
Recommendation: Indian Ocean Treaty Organization (IOTO) to Foster Maritime Connectivity
Establish a Comprehensive Maritime Security Framework: IOTO should create a robust and
comprehensive maritime security framework, drawing inspiration from NATO's successful collective
defense approach. This framework should address piracy, maritime terrorism, and other security
challenges specific to the Indian Ocean region. By implementing these recommendations, the IOTO
can play a pivotal role in fostering maritime connectivity, security, and cooperation in South Asia and
the broader Indian Ocean region, mirroring the successful model of NATO in the Atlantic region.
References
BIMSTEC. (2017). BIMSTEC Coastal Shipping Agreement. https://www.bimstec.org/bimstec-
coastal-shipping-agreement/
BIMSTEC. (2018). BIMSTEC Master Plan on Transport Connectivity.
https://www.bimstec.org/bimstec-master-plan-on-transport-connectivity/
BIMSTEC. (2022). Maritime Security Cooperation. https://www.bimstec.org/maritime-security-
cooperation/
Brown, A. (2020). Enhancing Maritime Connectivity in South Asia: Challenges and Opportunities.
South Asian Journal of Global Business Research, 3(1), 53-68.
Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA). (2014). Blue Economy Promotion. https://www.iora.int/blue-
economy-promotion
IORA. (2017). IORA Action Plan 2017-2021.
https://www.iora.int/documents/20182/0/Action+Plan+2017-2021.pdf/f1a7c52b-cedd-46d7-bde5-
3b81b650d48b
IORA. (2018). Maritime Safety and Security Working Group. https://www.iora.int/maritime-safety-
security-working-group
Islam, M. S. (2021). Understanding Maritime Connectivity in South Asia: The Role of Domestic and
External Actors. Journal of Governance, Security & Development, 12, 45-57.
Johnson, E. (2021). Maritime Connectivity in South Asia: A Comprehensive Analysis. South Asian
Journal of Economic Geography, 21(3), 405-421.
SAARC Secretariat. (1993). SAARC Agreement on Coastal Shipping. https://www.saarc-
sec.org/downloads/pdf/coastal-shipping-agreement.pdf
SAARC Secretariat. (2006). Promotion of Regional Connectivity Projects. https://www.saarc-
sec.org/downloads/pdf/promotion-of-regional-connectivity-projects.pdf

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SAARC Secretariat. (2006). SAARC Multimodal Transport Study. https://www.saarc-

sec.org/downloads/pdf/multimodal-transport-study.pdf
Smith, J. (2022). Advancing Maritime Connectivity in South Asia: The Role of Regional
Organizations. South Asian Journal of International Relations, 24(2), 215-232.
Smith, J. (2022). Maritime Connectivity in South Asia: Challenges and Opportunities. Journal of
Maritime Studies, 25(2), 123.
UNCTAD's Review of Maritime Transport 2022: Facts and Figures on Asia and the Pacific. Retrieved
from: https://unctad.org/press-material/unctads-review-maritime-transport-2022-facts-and-figures-
asia-and-pacific.
World Bank. (2022). World Development Indicators 2022.
https://databank.worldbank.org/reports.aspx?source=world-development-indicators

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VAMANA FIGURES: AN ARTISTIC REPRESENTATION OF

ACHONDROPLASIA AND THE UTILITY OF ACHONDROPLASTIC
PEOPLE AS A THEME TO ARTISTICALLY ILLUSTRATE THE
CONCEPTS OF VAMANA AND BHAIRAVA (A STUDY BASED ON DWARF
CARVINGS IN INDIA AND SRI LANKA)
1
Subasinghe WTIM and 2Karunarathna HHA
1
Ministry of Health Sri Lanka
2
University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka
indulamethmal1994@gmail.com

Abstract

Dwarf carvings identified as Vamana or Bhairava figures are seen in both Indian and Sri Lankan contexts.
Most of the artistry and the context of those carvings were appreciated by scholars. A focused, objective
anthropometric assessment was not done in view of interpreting Vamana figures. In the current study, Vamana
carvings from different sites in India and Sri Lanka were examined. Upper body segment to lower body
segment ratio was manually calculated in Vamana figures carved in standing position with minimal postural
obliteration of segmental heights and preserved anatomical details. Specific observable clinical features of
achondroplasia were also examined in the Vamana carvings. Calculated upper to lower body segment ratios
of the selected Vamana figures were compared with that of achondroplasia and observed anatomical features
of Vamana figures were correlated with clinical parameters of interest in achondroplasia. The mean value of
the upper segment to lower segment ratios of the selected figures was 2.0. The upper to lower segment ratio of
an adult person of average stature is 1.0 but in adults with achondroplasia the ratio reaches 1.7 at skeletal
maturity. Results of the study indicate that the range of upper segment to lower segment ratio of selected
Vamana figures is between 1.8-2.27. This range and mean value are above the mentioned ratio for adults with
achondroplasia indicating short lower body segment. The current study’s findings objectively justify that these
Vamana figures are artistic representations of adults with achondroplasia, with a slight exaggeration of limb
shortness compared to the upper segment to clearly represent the intended population. The Vamana figures
examined are an artistic representation of achondroplastic adults during ancient times. Rather than a depiction
of hypothetical beings, achondroplastic adults engaged in security or guarding duties and aesthetic activities
were retrospectively utilized as a theme to artistically illustrate the concepts of Vamana and Bhairava in
literature.

Key words: Vamana, Bhairava, Achondroplasia, Carvings

Introduction
The Vamana concept is extensively illustrated and discussed in the literature. In works of art in western world,
Greece, Egypt as well as China both proportionate and disproportionate dwarfism can be examined including
works from earliest times (Emery and Emery, 1994; Wu et al., 2021). Dwarf carvings identified as Vamana/
Bhairava figures are seen in both Indian and Sri Lankan contexts. Mostly the artistry and the content of those
carvings were appreciated by scholars subjectively even with extreme interpretations. A focused objective
anthropometric assessment was not done in view of interpreting Vamana figures. The aim of the current study
is firstly to objectively assess the upper body segment to lower body segment ratio which is used to assess and
categorize the proportion of short stature, of selected Vamana figures alongside specific observable clinical
features of achondroplasia and correlate them with clinical parameters of interest of achondroplasia, and
secondly to explain how and why achondroplastic people have been utilized as the subject to artistically
illustrate Vamana and Bhairava concepts in literature finally aiming to provide an objective interpretation to

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Vamana/Bhairava figures and their context and to provide an objective basis for preexisting and future
interpretations on Vamana carvings.

Methodology

Firstly, a thorough literature survey was conducted. The historical background of Vamana figures in India and
Sri Lanka was explored thoroughly. Dwarf figures carved in standing position with minimal postural
obliteration of segmental height and with preserved anatomical details whose segmental ratio can reliably be
assessed were included in the study. The upper segment to lower segment ratio was assessed in Vamana figures
of vertical pillars of the gateway of number three stupa of Sanchi, the northern vertical pillar of gateway of
number one stupa of Sanchi, Padma guard stone at Abhayagiri Vihara Anuradhapura, guard stone Rajagiri
Lena at Mihinthalaya, Padma guard stone of so called palace of I Vijayabahu at Anuradhapura, Śaṅkha guard
stone of so called palace of I Vijayabahu at Anuradhapura, No 3 Guard stone at Archeological Museum,
Anuradhapura, Padma Nidhi Guard stone at “Mahasen Maligaya” , Abhayagiriya, Anuradhapura and Śaṅkha
Nidhi Guard stone at “Mahasen Maligaya” , Abhayagiriya, Anuradhapura. To maintain the reliability and
consistency of results, figures carved in a seated position or in specific postures where segmental heights
cannot be reliably assessed, as well as figures with significantly obliterated anatomical features, were excluded
from upper-to-lower segment ratio measurement. In addition, a subjective interpretation was provided to such
figures found in Lowamahapaya, Madirigiriya Vatadage, Lankaramaya ,Polonnaruwa Vatadage, Korawakgala
construction, outer walls of Polonnaruwa Thiwanka Image House, basement of Raja-waishya-Bhujanga-
Mandapaya Polonnaruwa, return columns of Mihinthalaya Kantaka Chethiya premises, door frames of
Devundara Devalaya- The Fane Of Devundara, stairs of Bisomaligaya, Niyangampaya patimagruha basement
and a pantheon of Gadaladeniya Vihara based on visually identifiable clinical features including comparative
sizes of limbs and other physical characteristic of this disorder including large head, prominent forehead,
depressed nasal bridge, maxillary hypoplasia, lumbar hyperlordosis which is manifested as the belly is
extensively protruding out and bowed legs as extensively discussed in preceding sections. Color photographs
were converted to the gray scale to enhance easy visualization of features. Images were enlarged and
printed. As the measurement is a ratio, height and upper segment were measured using vertical ruler and upper
to lower segment ratio was manually calculated (upper segment height/ total height-upper segment height). In
all figures most possible highest point of head was marked after visually excluding the additional added height
attributed to the headdress. Level of feet marked. Level of the pubic symphysis was determined by examining
dress lines and visually identifiable possible level of anterior superior iliac spine. To maintain consistency, all
levels were marked in the same plane, parallel to each other. The level at which the 1:1 upper segment to lower
segment ratio achieved was indicated separately. Following manual assessment printed images were scanned
included as JPEG images.

Results and Discussion

The mean value of the upper segment to lower segment ratios of the selected figures was 2.0. The upper to
lower segment ratio of an adult person of average stature is 1.0 but in adults with achondroplasia the ratio
reaches 1.7 at skeletal maturity (Hoover-Fong et al, 2008). Results of the study indicate that the range of upper
segment to lower segment ratio of selected Vamana figures is between 1.8-2.27. This range and mean value
are above the mentioned ratio for adults with achondroplasia. The current study’s findings objectively justify
that these Vamana figures are artistic representations of adults with achondroplasia, with slight exaggeration
of limb shortness compared to the upper segment to clearly represent the intended population.
Kalidasa, in his Megaduta, in the description to the cloud messenger, of the characteristics of the mansion
where the beloved of the exiled yaksha was pining for her absent lord in the fairy land of Alaka, two features
by which the cloud messenger would have identified his target were the forms of Śaṅkha and Padma painted
on either side of the wall of the doorway (Kale, 1934, pp.200–202; (Subasinghe; Karunarathna, 2022).
Representations of Śaṅkha and Padma motifs, both as actual conch shells and lotuses in early representations
of the third and fourth centuries A.D. and as dwarf figures have been found at various sites in India including
marble carvings of the Ikshvaku period, Chalukyan temples and specimens from Kaveripakkam
(Sivaramamurti, 1999, p.11).Personification of Śaṅkha Nidhi and Padma Nidhi has been mentioned in South

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Indian texts on iconography as figures with short limbs attached to a large trunk (Rao, 1997, p.536).Silpa-
sastras have also provided a nearly similar account on Śaṅkha Nidhi and Padma Nidhi.

As extensively discussed above though the achondroplastic adults are having disproportionate short stature,
their cognitive development is not significantly affected by the disease condition (Hecht et al., 1991; Thompson
et al., 1999) thus making an adult with achondroplasia a short with average cognitive function. That can be
postulated that they were considered more proficient in guard duties due to special perquisites gained by them
from their specific physical attributes in the presence of normal cognitive functions. There is evidence in the
literature that Dwarfs have been assigned to protect the people of Zenana. The chance of standing unnoticed
compared to adults with average stature would be high and they could hide easily due to their short physical
attributes. They can be deployed in comparatively minute spaces. As the definitive terminal space where a
treasure hidden was traditionally a smaller place during ancient times those achondroplastic guards might
have been employed in such places for dedicated protective assignments i.e. a small chamber with the treasure
inside a large facility like a cave, a pagoda or underground bunkers. The real time employment of people with
achondroplasia in security tasks throughout the history might have stimulated sculptors and carving artists to
consider achondroplastic population as a proposition for carvings of dwarf figures called Vamana figures.
Taking four dwarf figures of the western pantheon of Sanchi Archeological Complex-India into consideration
which were carved standing on the top of the two vertical pillars facing the four directions, it can be logically
postulated that those Vamana figures were an artistic expression of an already existing tradition of deploying
achondroplastic guards in service chambers of pantheons and gates rather than carving them in the form of
carrying the whole weight above them. The explanation that Vamana figures have been carved in such
instances in the form of carrying or holding the weight does not give a valid explanation for why a Vamana
figure should carry the whole weight above them.
In Sri Lankan context similar postulation can be advanced to explain how Vamana figures entered carvings of
Sri Lanka. According to Wijesekara, the development of indigenous arts and crafts may not have been entirely
free from direct or indirect conflict with the dominant influence of the cultural and social forces of the
neighboring continent, India. Therefore, it is justified to consider that this subject of sculpture is inspired by
Indian concepts and techniques (2015, p1). The context of Vamana figures seen in pilaster heads found in
Mayura Pirivena, Medirigiriya Vatadage, Lankaramaya, Jetawanaya, Rajagala (Karunarathna, 2021),
Abhayagiriya and Lowamahapaya can also be explained by the logical suggestion proposed for Vamana figures
carved in pantheons of Sanchi. During the fourth stage of development of Muragala/ Guard stone, before the
development of Nagaraja image, its entire space was lined by Vamana figures. This depiction strongly suggests
the fact that achondroplastic adults had a greater reputation as guards. In Meghadutha kuvera was described as
an ugly being with a short stature, three legs and extremely protuberant belly but features of Śaṅkha and Padma
were not clearly mentioned (Amarasekara, 1967, p.165). Owing to the fact that achondroplastic adults might
have been assigned as guards of treasures in ancient times by masters who were comparably prosperous to have
achondroplastic or dwarf guards to appoint as immediate guards of treasures, engravers might have initiated the
tradition of sculpting Vamana/achondroplastic figures to structurally illustrate the concept of Śaṅkha Nidhi and
Padma Nidhi. According to Kulathunga there is a notion that the dwarf figures seen in relic mansion- Dhāthu
Mandiraya building of Abhayagiriya monastic complex were of the people shielded the premises as guards.
(2014, p.560). Dwarf figures carved in dancing like poses can be seen in places like Niyamgampaya, Kantaka
Chethiya in Mihinthalaya, an engraving panel displayed in Isurumuni museum and Polonnaruwa Lankathilaka
image house premises. Figures carved as dwarfs playing instruments and as performing a drama act are seen in
Niyamgampaya. Those depictions lead to assume that the achondroplastic adults were engaged in entertainment
activities. In modern era also dwarfs are also performing in circuses. Due to their highlighted physical attributes
they might have drawn the attention of the audiences. Their ability to entertain others with such activities can
be partially explained by their average cognitive function. With the rarity of the achondroplastic people having
a group of them might be considered a privilege by monarchs. Vamana figures found in Lowamahapaya,
Madirigiriya Vatadage, Lankaramaya ,Polonnaruwa Vatadage, Korawakgala construction, outer walls of
Polonnaruwa Thiwanka Image House, basement of Raja-Waishya-Bhujanga-Mandapaya, Polonnaruwa, return

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columns of Mihinthalaya Kantaka Chethiya premises, door frames of Devundara Devalaya- The Fane Of
Devundara, stairs of Bisomaligaya, Niyangampaya patimagruha basement and a pantheon of Gadaladeniya
Vihara show comparatively short limbs, lumbar hyperlordosis which is manifested as the belly extensively
protruding out , large head and distorted facial features to various extents. Therefore, those figures can also be
considered as an artistic representation of achondroplasia.

The face and head of one of the dwarf figures in “Bisomaligaya” complex resemble features of a mask rather
than those of a normal human face (Wickramasinghe, 2007, pp.136–137). This opinion would have been
emerged due to the afore-mentioned syndromic features of achondroplasia. Disproportionateness of the limb
and torso lengths of Vamana figures of interest can be compared in places where dwarf figure carved with
figures of normal average stature. Comparably short figures of Vamana form in Guard stones at Vatadage,
Polonnaruwa and guard stone seen at Ratnaprāsādaya, Polonnaruwa can be compared with the body
proportions of the Nagaraja figure carved with where limb and torso lengths of dwarf figures were seen
disproportionate while Nagaraja was carved maintaining proportions. This observation fortifies the notion that
the Vamana figures are an artistic representation of achondroplasia. Carvings of female dwarf figures and
dwarf like figures indirectly promote the fact that those carvings were an artistic expression of achondroplasia
persons rather than female figures of imaginary being. For sculptors that was not difficult to artistically
represent actual living beings which is evident by examining female Vamana like figures sculpted on the
Korawakgala construction of the gate of Polonnaruwa Lankathilaka Image House where those figure carved
as two dwarf figures escorting a noblewoman in which comparative indication of heights can be seen. That
must be stated carefully that all carvings with short stature do not represent typical achondroplasia. This
category of carvings can reliably be named Vamana like/achondroplasia like figures. The characteristics of
Vamana like figures can be attributed to modifications made by ancient artists to representations of initial
figures or modified figures carved artistically editing typical features of objective population. This is evident
by examining Vamana like figures including the figure in Kantaka Chethiya Mihinthalaya where the belly is
not protruding out rather sagging down. The sculptor might have intentionally reduced the conspicuousness of
the protruding belly to protect his perspective.

Conclusion

The Vamana figures examined are an artistic representation of achondroplastic adults during ancient times.
Rather than a depiction of hypothetical beings, achondroplastic adults engaged in security or guarding duties
and aesthetic activities were retrospectively utilized as a theme to artistically illustrate concept of Vamana and
Bhairava in literature.

Reference

Amarasekara, D. (1967). Ape Devi Dewathawo. colombo: M.D. Gunasena and corporation, p.165.

Hecht, J.T., Thompson, N.M., Weir, T., Patchell, L. and Horton, W.A. (1991). Cognitive and motor skills in
achondroplastic infants: Neurologic and respiratory correlates. American Journal of Medical Genetics,
41(2), pp.208–211. doi:10.1002/ajmg.1320410215.

Hoover-Fong, J.E. et al. (2008) “Age-appropriate body mass index in children with achondroplasia:
interpretation in relation to indexes of height,” The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 88(2), pp.
364–371. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1093/ajcn/88.2.364.

Kale, M.R. (1934). THE MEGADUTA OF KALIDASA WITH THE COMMENTARY OF MALLINATHA.
3rd ed. BOMBAY: D.V & B.D MULGAOKAR, pp.200–202.

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Karunarathna, H. H. A. (2021). A Study on the Cultural Landscape of Rajagala Monastic Complex in the
Eastern Province of Sri Lanka. Archaeology. South Asian History, Culture and Archaeology, 1(1), 35-
49.

Kulathunga, T.G. (2014). Purāna Abhayagiri Viharaya. Colombo: Central Cultural Fund, p.560.

Thompson, N.M., Hecht, J.T., Bohan, T.P., Kramer, L.A., Davidson, K., Brandt, M.E. and Fletcher, J.M.
(1999). Neuroanatomic and neuropsychological outcome in school-age children with achondroplasia.

Subasinghe, W. T. I. M., & Karunarathna, H. H. A. (2022). Chronological Age Limit of Female Figures
Portrayed In Sigiriya Fresco Pockets.

Subasinghe, W.T.I.M., & Karunarathna, H.H.A. 2022. Chronological Age Limit of Female Figures Portrayed
in Sigiriya Fresco Pockets. South Asian History, Culture and Archaeology, 2: 1, pp. 195-217.

Wijesekara, N. (2015). EARLY SINHALESE SCULPTURE. Colombo 10: S. Godage and

brothers pvt.ltd, pp.1, 107, 109, 281

Wickramasinghe, M. (2007). Eththayuththa.Rajagiriya: Sarasa pvt.ltd, pp.136–137.

Wu, L., Zhou, Y., Zhang, D., Shen, Y. and Liu, A. (2021). The portrayal of people with dwarfism in
Chinese art. American Journal of Medical Genetics Part C: Seminars in Medical Genetics, 187(2),
pp.192–198. doi:10.1002/ajmg.c.31906.

Emery, A.E. and Emery, M. (1994). Genetics in art. Journal of Medical Genetics, 31(5), pp.420– 422.
doi:10.1136/jmg.31.5.420.

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IMPACT OF NEW MEDIA ON INTERPERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS:

A CROSS-CULTURAL PSYCHOLOGICAL APPROACH
Dissanayaka DDNN
School of International Journalism and Communication,
Beijing Foreign Studies University, China
nirosha@spc.cmb.ac.lk

Abstract

Psychology has conventionally situated itself as universally applicable science. Cross-cultural

psychology is a broad term for the scientific study of human behavior and mental or cognitive processes
among cultures. We depend critically on cultural learning in virtually all aspects of our lives. The people
are also keeping interpersonal relationships with others through chat rooms and other social media. This
research highly focused on the perceptional impact of new media to communicate with each other.
Furthermore, it focuses on the psychological impact of new media among peers and relatives, as a result
of using chat rooms to communicate with each other. Research question derived as the influence of
New Media text on Interpersonal Relationships. In this study, to measure the impact of new media on
cross-cultural interpersonal relationships, 200 respondents were selected by implementing a snowball
sampling method. The mix method was applied and accordingly, questionnaires, intensive interviews
and focus group discussions were used to collect data and information. The research employed uses and
gratifications theory in order to examine the psychological impact of new media on interpersonal
relationships. The research has found that there are significant differences on the impact of new media
on gender, age, educational, geographical, religious and economical background. Furthermore, this
study shows that when respondents can frequently communicate with their relatives and networks they
can manage stress, anxiety, home sickness and other disturbing factors of their daily life in a better way.
The analysis strongly indicates that the younger generation is attracted to virtual reality than the older
generation.

Key words: Media psychology, Culture, Virtual reality, Interpersonal relationships, Impact of New
Media

Introduction

Media includes all forms of mediated communication, interaction and experience. Media psychology is
a fundamental aspect to the development, design, and use of media technologies (Routledge, 2010).
Most new media production of information by capitalist principles, advertisements, email, search
engines as Yahoo and Google are all produced through capitalism and for income (Apuke, 2017). The
interaction within the virtual environment is mediated through technology rather than face-to face
interaction (Hartley, 2002).
The main aim of the research is to explore how new media impacts on interpersonal relationships of
migrated people using chat rooms. The objectives of the research are; to examine how new media makes
psychological influence on the Sri Lankan society and to analyze how new media have become a tool
of interpersonal relationships.

Methodology

This study used quantitative and qualitative methods such as literature review, focus group discussions,
case studies, interviews and questionnaires. In this study, the questionnaire is designed in Sinhala and
translated to Tamil and English in order to collect accurate and representative data from every ethnic
group in Sri Lanka. Each interview took 15 to 30 minutes and all interviews were recorded. The total
sample size of the data collection was between 200 local and international workers who were selected
from immigrant workers and their family members. The snowball sampling was used for data collection

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in this study. Accordingly, those questionnaires were sent via social media such as Facebook, WeChat
and Viber.

Results and Discussions

The respondents of the study were scattered in twenty districts across Sri Lanka. The majority of
respondents are from the Kandy district that is about 20%. The next highest respondents are from
Kaluthara, Colombo, Galle and Gampaha which is higher 10% for each area. The rest of the respondents
are from other districts, which is about 33%
The respondents are identified to six different age categories. Majority of 49% fell to the age category
of 20 to 29 years and the second highest percentage found from 30 to 39 years. A significant percentage
can be found from the age category of 40 to 49 years. Lowest representation is from the lowest age
category of 10 years to 19 years and only 4% represent the eldest age category. The females are
dominating in the selected sample as it represents 65% of the total respondents. Males represent 35%
of the total sample.

Table 1: Frequency table of connecting via new media

Valid
Frequency Percent Percent
Valid Voice 15 8.0% 8.2%
Texts ending and incoming 4 2.1% 2.2%
Audio and visuals via webcam 61 32.4% 33.3%
Reduce the feeling of being away from family
34 18.1% 18.6%
members via social media
Visual feels at home 12 6.4% 6.6%
Reduces sadness when chatting 30 16.0% 16.4%
Problem solving 9 4.8% 4.9%
Reliable data access 18 9.6% 9.8%
Total 183 97.3% 100.0
Missing System 5 2.7%
Total 188 100.0%

As per the above frequency table 1, the majority of the respondents use new media such as Wechat,
Imo, Skype and Facebook through webcam to have audio and visual contact. Further 18.6% believe
usage of social media will reduce the feeling of being away from family members via social media. On
average 16.4% of respondents believe chatting via social media reduces the sadness.
The study found that 55% of the respondents are connecting with their respective foreign counterparts
through mobile. Using computers and mobile is the second-best choice as it consists of 22% of the
respondents. Traditional methods such as communicating via letters is only about 1%, while over the
phone has 13% representation.

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3% 7% 3%
9% Other contacts All Love
Business Relationships

16%
Relationship
62%
Friendship

Figure 1: Types of Relationships

As shown in Figure 1, It is being identified that, respondents who answered on the type of relationships
that was developed are mostly towards friendship (62%), basic relationship (16%) and business
relationships (9%), all relationships (7%), other contacts (3%), and love contacts (3%).
Length of the duration of communication is examined and found that 32% of the respondents used to
spend 15 to 29 minutes. Out of total respondents, 27% used to spend more than 45 minutes with their
foreign counterparts.
The majority of the respondents use new media such as WeChat, Imo, Skype and Facebook through
webcam to have audio and visual contact. Further 18.6% believe the usage of social media will reduce
the lack of membership. On average 16.4% of respondents believe chatting via social media reduces
sadness.

Conclusions

This study shows that new media has an impact over interpersonal relations between Sri Lankan
immigrant workers and their families. There are significant differences on the impact of new media on
gender, age, educational, geographical, religious and economical background.
This research shows that if respondents can frequently communicate with their families they can
manage stress, depression, anxiety, home sickness and other disturbing factors of their daily life in a
better way. They feel that they are very close to their families and contributing to decision making in
their families.
Meanwhile, they also make relationships with their family and others such as country mates who are
working in the same country and also with those in their motherland. This is similar to making
relationships in the real world.
The foreign employees who have facilities available to chat with others have potential to extend their
period of employment further than those who do not have such facilities. This study also shows that
uses and gratification theory is one of the best to study new media impact over interpersonal
relationships.

References

Apuke, O. D. (2017). Another Look at the Political Economy of the Mainstream and New Media: The
Capitalists Influence, Journal of Mass Communication & Journalism. Available
https://www.omicsonline.org/open-access/another-look-at-the-political-eco nomy-of-the-
mainstream-and-newmedia-the-capitalistsinfluence-2165-7912-1000341. php?aid=91944
&view=mobile
Hartley, J. (2002). Communication, Cultural and Media Studies: The Key Concepts, (3rd Edition),
London and New York: Routledge.
Routledge, P. (2010). What is Media Psychology? And Why You Should Care. Retrieved from
http://mprcenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/What-is-Media-Psychology.pdf.

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 Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences
Nāgānanda International Institute for Buddhist Studies (NIIBS)

ISSN 3021-6516