Invaluable guide to Sigiriya

Sigiriya: City-Palace-Gardens-Monasteries-Paintings

Author: Senake Bandaranayake

Published by Central Cultural Fund, 11 Independence Avenue, Colombo 7

Price: Rs. 125

Review: Sirinimal LAKDUSINGHE

HERITAGE: One more publication on Sigiriya has recently been released by the Central Cultural Fund.

The book is written by none other than a renowned archaeologist and art-historian who has devoted many years of his life to exploration, excavation and conservation work at Sigiriya, one of the Sri Lanka’s most complex and fascinating archaeological sites and a World Heritage city, founded in the 5th century A.D.

Writers who publish books on Sigiriya are many. In recent years there has been a plethora of writing and publication on Sigiriya, especially in Sinhala, but not all of it as rigorous, scholarly and well written as we would like.

The rapid development and expansion of modern electronic printing techniques has resulted in a publishing explosion, greatly appreciated by an equally rapidly expanding reading public.

However one often wonders whether quality has not suffered with this massive increase in quantity.

It is a pleasure, therefore, to encounter this little book of 71 pages, which nevertheless gives one a great deal to read and digest.

A publication on this famous, favourite and much-written about site by Prof. Senake Bandaranayake, who has been responsible during a long period of years for directing the multi-disciplinary archaeological research at that site by the University of Kelaniya, Postgraduate Institute of Archaeology and Cultural Triangle team, has become a gem in the hand of the reader to whom what matters most is authentic and objective information presented in a clear, systematic, logical and easy-to-read style.

Historical background

The book provides at the outset, a brief historical background to the site, and its re-discovery in modern times. Then it outlines a working periodization of the history of Sigiriya, dividing it into twelve distinct phases.

We were previously aware through the works of the earlier writers, including the great savant Prof. Senerat Paranavitana, of only three periods at Sigiriya.

These were the earlier monastic period, the Kasyapa period and the post-Kasyapa or Graffiti period. Based on his twenty years of excavation and research at the site, the present author has been able to reconstruct a comprehensive historical periodization of twelve sequences, extending from prehistory to the present day.

After outlining the historical background and discussing the urban plan of inner and outer city, and the different elements of the overall Sigiriya complex, the book goes on in an extremely systematic way to present the main features at Sigiriya in the order that the visitor would follow when entering from the Western Entrance or the Southern Gate.

This sequence is as follows: (1) ramparts, moats and gateways; (2) water gardens and mooted palaces; (3) citadel wall and the early and later Buddhist monastery; (4) boulder and terrace gardens; (5) Mirror Wall and lion staircase; and finally (6) the palace on the summit.

Every stage in one’s progress across the site is succinctly described, and an accompanying plan or photograph appropriately placed in order to illustrate or exemplify the textual description, so that the reader or visitor can test or experience for himself what is being presented.

Interspersed with these field descriptions and interpretations are sections on the Boulder Garden paintings, the famous paintings on the main rock itself, and the graffiti poems on the Mirror Wall.

The selection of poems in English translation include poems which describe not only the ladies in the paintings, but also the lion, the palace and the natural environment. To present the graffiti, the author has selected breathtakingly beautiful examples of epigrammatic Sinhala poetry at its best.

Archaeological finds

The final section of the book contains succinct descriptions of archaeological finds, the extraordinary phenomenon of terracotta sculptural souvenirs produced in ancient times for visitors to take away with them as mementos of their visit to view the paintings, that astonishing piece of ancient jewellery, the Sigiriya earring, a very useful and revealing map of the archaeological sites of the Sigiriya hinterland, including short descriptions and informative plans of the neighbouring Buddhist monasteries at Pidurangala and “Ramakale and a brief entry on the inscriptions found in an around Sigiriya.

Throughout the book, we come across interesting short and meaningful descriptions, provided we might say in the same spirit as that of the Sigiriya painters who created the beautiful damsels with only a few sharp and sure brush strokes.

Each verbal description is well illustrated by one or several illustrations, consisting of photographs, maps, plans, and drawings, some of which contain very rare material. Altogether there are 48 illustrations in this small book of 71 pages.

All in all, this book will be invaluable as a guide to Sigiriya, in the real sense of the word.

It is not a mere description of many outstanding architectural and artistic creations connected to this magnificent rock and garden city, but a virtually an elegantly concentrated and crystallized analytical and critical study of this ancient archaeological site, the World Heritage city of Sigiriya.

We hope that the Sinhala and Tamil versions of this book will not be too long in the making and that the hundreds and thousands of Sri Lankan visitors to Sigiriya will be able to have access to this book in Sinhala and Tamil.

Controversial work of fiction

The Davinci Code

Author: Dan Brown

Vijitha Yapa Bookshop, Colombo 4

Review: Dr. Ruwantissa ABEYRATNE

FICTION: Few books in recent times have generated the contention caused by The DaVinci Code, a fictitious mystery/detective novel by American author Dan Brown, published in 2003 by Doubleday Fiction.

The book opens with the claim by Brown that “all descriptions of artwork, architecture, documents and secret rituals in this novel are accurate”. However, this claim has been vehemently disputed by many academic scholars.

The most disturbing aspect of this book is that it is calculated, arguably deliberately, to confuse the reader as to what is fact and what is fiction.

Although the book is readily identifiable as a thriller - a work of fiction - and not as a historical tome, the author makes confusion worse confounded by prefacing his work with a page he calls “Facts” which could well mislead the reader.

However, it is important that “” facts” should not be confused with “truth” which the author by no means lays claim to.

A fact is a mere statement, where as the truth can be authenticated. Additionally, the author’s website makes use of words such as “alleged,” “rumoured,” and “seem to be,” making these qualifiers misleading.

Bestseller

As of January 2007 The DaVinci Code had sold more than 80 million copies in print and had been translated into 44 languages, making it a worldwide bestseller. Unofficial reports identify the book as being the seventh biggest selling book of all time.

Some of us who have read Dan Brown’s book Angels and Demons, published in 2000 and which introduced the main character Robert Langdon, are aware that The DaVinci Code is part two of a trilogy.

Where The DaVinci Code takes the reader to Paris, Angels and Demons takes place in Rome and concerned the Illuminati, which translates to ‘enlightened ones’ in Latin Although Angels and Demons is centered on the same character, it is not necessary to read the book in order to understand the plot of The DaVinci Code.

The third book, The Solomon Key, which is understood to concern Freemasonry, is expected to be released in 2007.

The DaVinci Code is based on the dubious and controversial premise that there is a conspiracy within the Catholic Church to cover up the true story of Jesus.

This premise presupposes the fact that the Vatican, which is the bulwark of the Roman Catholic Church, knows it is propagating a falsehood but continues to do so in order to retain its control and power over the Church.

The book also queries the role of Mary Magdalene in the history of Christianity. Proponents of the book and fans have lauded the book as creative, action-packed and thought-provoking, while its detractors have attacked it as being poorly written, inaccurate and calculated to create confusion between speculation and fact.

From a religious point of view, some critics consider it sacrilegious, and decry the many negative implications about the Catholic Church and Opus Dei.

The DaVinci Code takes the reader through a series of attempts of fictional character Robert Langdon, Professor of Religious Symbology at Harvard University, to solve the murder of renowned curator Jacques Sauniere of the Louvre Museum in Paris.

The title of the novel refers, among other things, to the fact that Sauniere’s body is found in the Denon Wing of the Louvre naked and posed like Leonardo DaVinci’s famous drawing, the Vitruvian Man, with a cryptic message written beside his body and a Pentagram drawn on his stomach in his own blood.

The interpretation of hidden messages inside Leonardo’s famous works, (which relate to the concept of the Sacred feminine) including the Mona Lisa and The Last Supper, figure prominently in the solution to the mystery.

Different characters

The author skilfully weaves several concurrent storylines that follow different characters throughout different parts of the book, only to bring together all the storylines and characters and resolve the puzzle in the denouement.

One of the striking features of the book is its appeal to the IQ of the reader, with its presentation of a series of brain-teasers, including anagrams and number puzzles. These are presented in relation with the possible location of the Holy Grail with intimate inter-connections that leave the reader quite engaged.

The solution is also linked to a mysterious society called the Priory of Sion, as well as to the Knights Templar. The story also involves an exaggerated rendition of the Catholic organization Opus Dei, which is identified in opposition to the Priory.

The fundamental premise presented in the book is that at least symbolically, the Priory of Sion which involves and comprises male and female membership and leadership is “good” and the Opus Dei which comprises only male leaders, is “bad” and are at opposite sides of the scale.

Fictional interpretation

The main area in which this book is contentious lies in the propositions of the fictional interpretation of the life of Jesus Christ, that the secrets of the Holy Grail, as kept by the Priory of Sion, which is an alleged thousand-year-old cabal featured in various conspiracy theories, as well as being listed as a factual ancient society in the book itself, are that the Holy Grail is not a physical chalice, but a woman, namely Mary Magdalene, who carried the bloodline of Christ and that the ancient French expression for the Holy Grail, San greal, actually is a play on Sang real, which literally means “royal blood” in old French.

Brown also brings to bear his ability to put forward various seemingly credible, or thought provoking propositions when he mentions in the book through his characters that the relics of the Grail consist of the documents that testify to the bloodline, as well as the actual bones of Mary Magdalene. and that the Grail relics of Mary Magdalene were hidden by the Priory of Sion in a secret crypt, perhaps beneath Rosslyn Chapel.

There is also the Leonardo DaVinci dimension in the book which will undoubtedly take the reader into a world of bewilderment. It says that Leonardo was a member of the Priory of Sion and knew the secret of the Grail.

This secret, according to the book, has been revealed in DaVinci’s painting of The Last Supper, in which no actual chalice is present at the table.

Also, it is said that the figure seated next to Christ is not a man, but a woman, interpreted to be his wife Mary Magdalene.

Again, for most of us who have wondered what the Mona Lisa represents through the eyes of the painter, the book offers the theory that the Mona Lisa is actually a self-portrait by Leonardo as a woman and that the androgyny reflects the sacred union of male and female which is implied in the holy union of Jesus and Mary Magdalene.

In its very basic sense The DaVinci Code affects the faith of Christians. Faith implies a transpersonal rather than interpersonal relationship with God or a higher power. The object of faith can be a person or even an inanimate object or a proposition or body of propositions, such as a religious credo.

Fith can also mean believing unconditionally and accepting as true something that one has been told by someone who is believed to be trustworthy.

The basic truth about the book however, is that it is a work of fiction. It seems obvious why the author did not say this at the outset of the book.

Ideal for armchair travellers

Nile Nimnaye Charikavak

Author: Nimal Sedera

Ratna Poth Prakashakayo, Colombo 10

164 pp Price Rs. 260

Review: R.S. KARUNARATNE

TRAVELOGUE: Very few of us have the chance of visiting Egypt, although we may have studied its history extensively. As we know Egypt is a tourist attraction. And its attraction can be irresistible.

Egypt has become a tourist attraction because of its spectacular ancient monuments. Its climate and attractive beaches on the Mediterranean and Red Seas provide a sportsman’s paradise.

Many new tourist hotels have come up over the years giving Egypt an unenviable position. Sedera’s book shows how tourist guides are trained and transport system is streamlined.

The dry desert climate has preserved many antiquities. Dead bodies air sealed in tombs have been saved from the destruction of the elements.

The book gives a graphic account of the Egyptian Museum located in the heart of Cairo. It is one of the biggest museums in the world.

The museum authorities have classified all the items on display with a written text beside each exhibit in Arabic, English and French.

Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country. A tourist can visit many beautiful old mosques which are architectural showpieces. Meanwhile, Egypt is home for many Christians.

There are many sites commemorating the advent of Joseph and Mary with infant Jesus. The Christian Museum in Cairo shows the growth of Christianity in the country.

Sedera writes on his memorable trip in a luxury ship along the Suez Canal. He says it is a constant fascination to see ships coming and going, carrying flags from every part of the world.

Although Sedera has not written in so many words, Egypt too has its own problems. A State Information Service bulletin says that population growth is the biggest problem. This has led to other problems such as housing, food supplies, communication and education.

However, Egypt stands tall as an excellent tourist destination. Nimal Sedera’s book is so delightful that after reading it I too felt like visiting this marvellous country.

A biography in an autobiography

Janasetha Sedu Janapati Sevane

Author: Evans Gunalal Cooray

Review: Professor Chandima WIJEBANDARA,

BRS Graduate School of Buddhist Studies Singapore

BIOGRAPHY: The moment I saw the word Janapati in the title I thought Evans has written a biography of President Ranasinghe Premadasa whom he associated with for more than four decades. And he is the most qualified journalist in the world to write the life story of that unique leader of twentieth century Sri Lanka.

Then I read the title in full and thought this is a book on the achievements of Evans himself during his times with the late President.

As a matter of fact I knew that the life story of Evans would definitely be profitable reading to any reader as he himself also was as unique as the leader that the marched forward with.

He never left his leader unassisted and continue to work with him till his last few seconds. Sunshine or rain, he was there every time the President wanted him. So I was getting ready for a double benefit, two biographies of two men who created history together.

When I started reading the book, however, I realized that this book would offer much more than that.

While presenting biographical information of President Premadasa in a context of an autobiography of Evans Cooray, it actually presents us a very interesting study of the social and political history of Sri Lanka during the last half of the twentieth century. As a mater of fact, I always enjoy reading autobiographies.

This book of Evans, however, was much more enjoyable than any other autobiography that I have read as it brought more knowledge and insight into inside politics and the complex nature of the problems our politicians face.

The author begins with a humble yet mature note of flashback. He compares the days that he had immense power and a lot of friends and enemies around. Now that he holds no administrative post in the government and has no political influence, the number of friends has gone down.

The enemies have definitely forgotten him. Free and happy, he lives in London with the family, content with what he earns there and finds time to write. He seems to have thoroughly enjoyed writing his memoirs.

And he claims that he is convinced that the reader may not only get educated but also “cultured”. (Sanyata, the term he used in Sinhala, is a very positive and rich word which I find difficult to find a suitable English word for).

Actually this unique book could make the reader a little more mature and wiser after reading it. It brings a new insight and a world outlook to us.

The author is actually not up to any eulogizing President Premadasa or whitewashing his (or his own for that matter) weaknesses. With a mature and restrained approach he focuses on strong points and shortcomings also.

Discriminative wisdom, will power, philosophical insight, generosity and friendship of President Premadasa is beautifully described by him. At the same time, however, he regrets for the late President’s weakness in uncompromising addiction to his own views and listening to petty minded talebearers.

People with ulterior motives could compose and publish a eulogy to the President and get closer to him. He would then extend to them unjustifiable favours and even listen to their poison mouths to the extent of getting suspicious of the most faithful and devoted friends.

The writer compares the days of Mr. Premadasa before becoming the president and after that. Prime Minister Premadasa was, according to him, much wiser and restrained than the President Premadasa.

Evans was not in a position, it seems, to put any corrective to what was going on and therefore had to sadly witness how the downfall of the great leader was inevitable.

Most of the political decisions of young Mr. Premadasa were wisely taken and it was owing to such correct steps that he managed to ascend to the top which was not accessible to ordinary men in Sri Lanka.

In a context that was believed to be a power struggle between Senanayaka family and Bandaranaike family, he wanted to have his democratic right of becoming the leader of the country. His penetrative wisdom convinced him that he would choose the party which is less aristocratic.

He chose the United National Party at a time many others were thinking of Sri Lanka Freedom Party as the most progressive camp a person from a common origin should contemplate joining.

He was sharp enough to feel the pulse of Sri Lankan culture to predict that Marxists would never grab the power during his life time. He with his winning qualities and methodical approach managed to manipulate democratic procedure and establish his position in the party.

Evans Gunalal Cooray joined him, being himself just a lad then and marched forward with him until the dream became a reality.

There, of course, were ups and downs but the duo courageously accepted all challenges together determined to hit their target. Evens does not show any anger or hatred when he depicts those tough experiences the enemies had made them have.

This book, I strongly believe, is compulsory reading for budding politicians and social thinkers.

It exemplifies positive thinking as many other biographies in Sinhala do not. It could provide enriching reading pleasure to any reader in spite of political prejudices he may have.

The Evolution of Constitutional Governance in Sri Lanka

CONSTITUTION: A study on the history of the constitutions of Sri Lanka by an eminent authority, Professor Lakshman Marasinghe will be launched at the Mahaweli Centre, Colombo 7 on Saturday March 10 at 4.00 p.m. The book is published by Vijitha Yapa Publications.

In this landmark book, Professor Lakshman Marasinghe traces the evolution of Constitutional governance in Ceylon/Sri Lanka from the Colebrooke-Cameron Reforms, through the Crewe-MacCallum Reforms, the Temporary Constitution, the Manning Reforms, the Donoughmore Reforms, Soulbury Reforms, the 1972 Constitution and including the 1978 Constitution.

The socio-political compacts which underpinned each of the Constitutional reforms have been discussed in detail.

As for the examination of the 1978 Constitution, the exposition centers on certain important aspects, including. Fundamental Rights, Directive Principles of State policy, Aspects of Executive Presidency, Legislative and Constitutional Amendments and their legal implications.

Important recent decisions of the Supreme Court including the P-TOMS, the 2005-2006 Presidential Election issue, The Galle Face Environmental Issue, The Singarasa Decision, the De-Merger decision and the recent decision of H.E. President Mahinda Rajapaksa vs Chandra Fernando (IGP) have been included in this book.

In the next instalment he plans to be more discursive of the 1978 Constitution (subject to any constitutional changes) and Constitutional theories including Kelsen, Doctrine of Necessity and Federalism and their relevance to constitutional jurisprudence.

The chief guest at the book launch will be Professor Tissa Vitharana, Minister of Science and Technology. The keynote address will be delivered by Judge C. G. Weeremantry - formerly the Vice President of International Court of Justice.

The book will be reviewed by Professor Carlo Fonseka - Emeritus Professor of Medicine and Dr. Shivaji Felix - Attorney-at-law.

Dr. Lakshman Marasinghe is an Emeritus Professor of Law of the University of Windsor in Canada. He is currently the Chairman of the Sri Lanka Law Commission. He had been a Visiting Professor of Law at a number of African, Asian, Australian Universities and of the University of London, in the UK.

He has published ten books and nearly 70 refereed articles in a number of important areas of law. Among them are: International Trade Law, Private International Law, Law in Aid of Development, Jurisprudence and Constitutional Law. These have obtained the respect and recognition internationally among various Academic circles.