(The entrance view to Nelligala. Pic cred: the author)

My photography escapades in Kandy 

For the last long weekend, my family and I had a road-trip to Kandy. Kandy, a popular tourist spot in Sri Lanka, is lush with history and astounding sites to visit. Since my family planned on visiting some very historical places (such as the Dalada Palace, Nelligala, etc.). Therefore, I planned to take some pictures of these places in order to exhibit Sri Lanka’s history through them.

First, when visiting Nelligala Temple, I took some pictures of the amazing scenery. I think that this was the most beautiful temple I have ever been to and was blown away by the amazing structures and the gorgeous views.

(A large statue of one of the Buddhist “vitarka” sign. Photo cred: the author)

After some walking around the area, the next prominent site we went to was the Dalada Maligawa (Sacred Palace of The Tooth), named as such because it is where Gautama Buddha’s tooth relic is placed – an invaluable religious and historical symbol for Sri Lanka. According to the history of the palace, this tooth was transported to Sri Lanka by Princess Hemamali and Prince Dantha, her husband.

The entrance pathway to Dalada Maligawa also had statues of prominent figures in Sri Lankan history – ranging all the way from royals to activists during the time of British colonization. I admit, one statue in particular – of the child hero Madduma Bandara – moved me more than I thought it would. Madduma was hailed a legendary hero of Sri Lanka after his immense courage in the face of death by execution (due to political conflicts by his father), aged only 9.

And I found myself unable to express its greatness in simple pictures.

(Statue of Madduma Bandara. Photo cred: the author)

Translation: In memory of the lion-hearted child hero, Madduma Bandara. Aged 9 years old, who on 17th May 1814 faced his executioner’s sword with supreme courage, exhorting his elder brother with the words: “Fear not brother, I will show you how to face death.”

Additionally, Dalada Maligawa also had a museum comprised of endless artifacts, paintings, and statues of the Sri Lankan royal family and their advisors. I was surprised that they even had priceless treasures such as one of the king’s advisor’s outfits (from hundreds of years ago), and intricately carved elephant tusks gifted by a Burmese king in the past. Unfortunately, taking photographs inside this museum was not allowed.

Later on, we went to Peradeniya Gardens, and more around Kandy’s bustling shops and tourist sites.

(At Peradeniya Garden’s – not entirely historical, but a great view nonetheless. Photo cred: the author)

I think that this trip to Kandy was highly valuable for me, especially in hearing more about the history of Sri Lanka – something which I usually would not think of much when going on a trip such as this. I was also able to practice my photography a bit more and refine my attempts in conveying emotion through pictures.

Learning outcomes:

• LO1 – Strength and growth 
  • I was clearly able to see my growth in understanding of my own culture’s history and thus felt as if I connected more with my identity as a Sri Lankan. Especially considering that Sri Lankan history is not quite taught in international schools, I believe that this information will be invaluable for me. 
  • Additionally, my strength in creative areas such as photography was definitely exercised more throughout the duration of this trip – as this was one of my primary focuses on this trip. Practice makes perfect!