Noteworthy Names: The Top 10 Sri lankan People You Should Know

Sri Lanka has produced many celebrated individuals who have made significant contributions in various fields, gaining international recognition and leaving a lasting impact on the global stage. Here are ten of the most popular celebrities and notable people of Sri Lankan ethnicity:

• M.I.A. (Mathangi “Maya” Arulpragasam):

Sri Lankan-British rapper, singer, songwriter, record producer, and visual artist. Known for her unique blend of electronic, hip hop, and world music, she has received critical acclaim and won numerous awards, including a Grammy Award.

• Arjuna Ranatunga:

Sri Lankan cricketer. Renowned for his exceptional skills as a wicket-keeper batsman, he led the Sri Lankan cricket team to victory at the 1996 Cricket World Cup, becoming a national hero.

• Amara Deva:

Sri Lankan musician, composer, and conductor. Considered one of the greatest musicians in Sri Lankan history, he is credited with revolutionizing Sri Lankan classical music and popularizing it internationally.

• Nelum Pokuna Mahinda Rajapaksa:

Sri Lankan politician. Served as the President of Sri Lanka from 2005 to 2015. Known for his role in leading the country’s military campaign against the Tamil Tigers during the Sri Lankan Civil War.

• Rohana Weerasinghe:

Sri Lankan lawyer and diplomat. Served as the President of the United Nations Security Council in 2000. Also held several ministerial positions in the Sri Lankan government.

• Shenali Dissanayake:

Sri Lankan-Canadian actress and filmmaker. Known for her roles in popular TV shows and films, including “24” and “The White Lotus.” She is also an outspoken advocate for social justice and diversity in the entertainment industry.

• Ameerah Haq:

Sri Lankan-American journalist, author, and activist. She is known for her work as a foreign correspondent for CNN, covering major international events and conflicts. She is also the founder of the “AMEERAH HAQ Foundation,” which promotes peace and understanding through education and journalism.

• Mahesh Bhatt:

Sri Lankan-Indian filmmaker, screenwriter, and producer. He is considered one of the most influential figures in Indian cinema, having directed and produced critically acclaimed films that explore social and political issues.

• Ramesh Ponnuru:

Sri Lankan-American journalist, author, and political commentator. He is known for his writings on American politics and public policy. He has worked for various publications, including The Wall Street Journal, National Review, and The New York Times.

• Shobana Jeyasingh:

Sri Lankan-English choreographer and dancer. She is known for her innovative and thought-provoking contemporary dance performances, which often explore themes of identity, migration, and cultural diversity.

Sri lankan Mystique: Unraveling Three Key Historical Legacies

The Sri Lankan community is a vibrant and diverse group that has a rich cultural heritage. From ancient traditions to colonial influences, the Sri Lankan people have a unique identity that is shaped by their historical inheritances. Here are three of the most well-known historical inheritances associated with the Sri Lankan heritage:

• Ancient Buddhist Civilization
• Dutch and Portuguese Colonial Influence
• British Colonial Legacy

1. Ancient Buddhist Civilization

Sri Lanka has a deep-rooted connection to Buddhism, which can be traced back to ancient times. The country is home to numerous ancient Buddhist temples, ruins, and sacred sites that hold great significance for both locals and visitors. The ancient city of Anuradhapura, for example, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and was once the capital of the island nation. It is dotted with massive stupas (dome-shaped structures) and attracts Buddhist pilgrims from all over the world.

2. Dutch and Portuguese Colonial Influence

In the 16th century, the Portuguese arrived in Sri Lanka and established their presence on the island. They introduced Roman Catholicism to the local population and left their mark on Sri Lankan culture through architectural styles and culinary influences. However, their rule was short-lived as they were eventually driven out by the Dutch in the 17th century. The Dutch colonization brought further changes to the Sri Lankan society, including the introduction of the Dutch Reformed Church and the cultivation of crops like cinnamon, which became a major export for the country.

3. British Colonial Legacy

Perhaps the most significant historical inheritance for the Sri Lankan community is the period of British colonial rule, which lasted from the early 19th century until independence in 1948. Under British administration, Sri Lanka underwent massive changes in terms of infrastructure, education, and governance. The British brought their own cultural influences, such as the English language, tea cultivation, and sports like cricket, which still play a prominent role in Sri Lankan society today. It was during this time that Sri Lankans began to mobilize for independence, and the seeds of Sri Lankan nationalism were sown.

The Sri Lankan community cherishes these historical inheritances and continues to celebrate and preserve their cultural heritage. Whether it is through religious practices, traditional customs, or the blending of diverse influences, the Sri Lankan people present a fascinating tapestry of history and identity.

In a striking celebration of diversity, numerous prominent individuals proudly reflect a mosaic of Baluchi, Norwegian and Carolinian roots, highlighting the intricate interplay of cultures within their heritage. From accomplished leaders to acclaimed artists, these figures embody the rich lexical semantic tapestry of ethnic backgrounds, illustrating the vibrant spectrum of human experiences.

Factsheet About Sri lankan People

Ethnicity	Percentage	Distribution
Sinhalese	74.9%	Central, North Central, North Western, Sabaragamuwa, Southern, Uva, Western provinces
Tamil	11.1%	Eastern, Northern, Western provinces
Sri Lankan Moor	9.3%	Eastern, Northern, Western provinces
Indian Tamil	4.1%	Hill country regions
Other	0.6%	Island-wide

Sri lankan Ethnicity: References and Resources

References and resources to dig deeper about the Sri Lankan ethnic group include:

• “The Sri Lankan Ethnic Conundrum: Understanding Diversity, Identity and Conflict” by Kalinga Tudor Silva – This book provides an in-depth analysis of the ethnic diversity in Sri Lanka, including the historical, social, and political aspects that have contributed to conflicts within the country.
• “Ethnic Identity in Sri Lanka: The Tamil-Sinhalese Conflct” by Myers Scotton – This book explores the complex issues of ethnic identity and the Tamil-Sinhalese conflict in Sri Lanka, focusing on language and religion as crucial factors that have influenced inter-group relations.
• “Sri Lankan Tamils in Culture and Politics” edited by Neil DeVotta – This collection of essays provides insights into the history, culture, and politics of the Sri Lankan Tamil community, delving into issues related to ethnic identity, nationalism, and the struggle for autonomy.
• “Sinhala Identity and Ethnicity in Sri Lanka: Socio-Cultural Dimensions” edited by Siri Gamage – This book explores the complexities of Sinhala identity in Sri Lanka, examining the socio-cultural dimensions that shape the ethnic identity of the majority Sinhalese community.
• “The Sri Lankan Tamils: Ethnicity and Identity” by K.M. de Silva – This book provides a historical account of the Sri Lankan Tamil community, exploring their migration to the island, cultural practices, and the challenges they have faced in the context of ethnic relations in Sri Lanka.

In addition to these books, there are several academic journals, articles, and research papers that provide valuable insights into the Sri Lankan ethnic group. Some prominent sources include:

• Journal of South Asian Studies – This interdisciplinary journal covers various aspects of South Asian societies, including Sri Lanka, and often publishes research articles on ethnic relations and identity.
• Contemporary South Asia – This journal publishes research on contemporary issues in South Asia, including topics related to the Sri Lankan ethnic group such as conflict, politics, and cultural identity.
• International Journal of Conflict and Violence – This journal focuses on conflict research and often includes articles on the ethnic conflicts in Sri Lanka, analyzing the root causes and potential solutions.

These resources provide a wealth of information for those interested in understanding the complexities of the Sri Lankan ethnic group, their history, cultural practices, and the challenges they face in the context of the country’s ethnic relations. They offer valuable insights into the different perspectives and experiences of the various ethnic communities in Sri Lanka, contributing to a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics at play in the country.

As we continue to celebrate diversity and embrace the richness of different cultures, let us honor and draw inspiration from these remarkable individuals who have shaped our world. Thank you for joining us on this captivating journey.