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by Irangika Range

Sri Lankans should protect the heritage and the country, said former Vice Chancellor of the Rajarata University, Professor of the Department of History of the Peradeniya University Indrakeerthi Siriweera.

He was speaking as the chief guest at the launch of "Wallipuram Ransannasa Saha Hela Urumaya" by the Archaeological Department's Deputy Director Sirisaman Wijethunga. A veteran writer himself, Prof.Indrakeerthi said we should study the "Wallipiuram Ransannasa Saha Hela Urumaya" at the ceremony of the Mahaweli centre on Tuesday.

Senior journalist, author of Child and Youth Encyclopedia and former Chief Editor of the Nawaugaya Percy Jayamanne said he knew Wijethunga from childhood.

He wrote articles, short stories and poetry to newspapers from a young age. He is a renowned writer. Wijethunga is popular among journalists. He said the publisher of the book Dayawansa Jayakody began his career as a writer and took to printing later. His patriotic mind and contribution to national literature could be reflected from the books published.

Director General of Archaeology Dr.W. H. Wijepala said there are only a limited number of people who have written about Sri Lanka's history and Archaeology. He knew Wijethunga while studying at the Peradeniya University. He joined the Department of Archaeology in 1982. He is not only an archaeological and scholastic writer, but also a famous lyricist. Knowledge about Sri Lanka's history and identity is getting lost. We should teach our history to children, said Dr. Wijepala.

Students could use the book to improve their general knowledge. The book can prove our identity. Articles on Pre-historic places can be read in the book. Information about the pre-historic era, the advent of Arhath Mahinda and homage to the Buddha are also included in the book.

Puravidhya Chakrawarthi and Puravidhya Dharshanasuri Ven. Ellawela Medhananda Thera said "Wallipuram Ranpatha was found while the foundation was laid to construct the "Vishnu Dewalaya" in Jaffna.

There were a lot of Archaeological ruins. Only a little historical research has been carried out in "Wallipuram'. The Thera said according to Pali books "Wallipuram Ranpatha" was found during King "Wasambha's period. Rock inscriptions which were done by King Wasambha have been found in all districts. Jaffna is the only area that still could not be inspected.

Writer, former secretary of the Ministry of Religious and cultural affairs Amarahewa Madduma said a person who does not have any interest of literature is not human. The Cultural heritage is ruined daily, he said. The government should implement a programme to protect our heritage. We should teach customs and religious activities to our children. Otherwise our history, cultural heritage and traditions will be destroyed, he said.

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