Unemployed Undergrads - Tharuna Aruna

Yes, today I have decided to dedicate my rant to the above mentioned. I do not know much about the "Tharuna Aruna" programme, but I'll give my opinion about it and the fellows anyway.

So C.W.C Kannagara got this brilliant idea of Free Education, and did his part making all Text Books freely available for Students. I think it was Premadasa who gave out Cloth for students uniform, and then some one pitched in with "Milk" and "Banis" for the students too. Hell even Mahinda pledged Lunch for students (I don't know how far it has gone to being implemented on a daily basis). Anyway, all these efforts have been made inorder to support the notion of Free Education. Hell some of these kids who do well in Scholarship get a monthly allowance until they complete University. Not that you'll see those kids, playing pool with that money, but it's something. I knew a few guys back in School who used to get it.

So what am I getting at? Well my thing is that, you get a free education upto Uni (if you make it, unlike me) after that why do you want a Free Job? What do I mean? Well these guys want it easy! They expect to be Educated by the Govt, then to be found a Job by the Govt! Hell, I'm thinking they want the Govt to find them a Wifey too!

Why? So these lazy asses can go to their Govt Job's and live a cool life working probably 3 hours a day, striking every 3 months for various reasons, and when they retire end up with a healthy pension. Talk about giving something back to the Country eh?

IMO, you got a free education, now get off your asses and make your self useful! Don't sit around expecting the Govt to find you jobs! Don't be afraid of the Private Sector! They might work you to the bone, but they'll pay you in return!

"Tharuna Aruna" - According to the minister (I have no respect for) this programme was meant to give a training for Grads to seek jobs in the Private Sector. So now you have buggers who finished their training asking for "Govt" jobs!! What the hell, why can't you guys make it in the Private Sector??

"Monks" - My respect for Buddhist Monks is going down, day by day. I think Mahinda needs to carry out a "Dharma Sangayanawa". Anyways, what's wrong with them? I see a monk on T.V. complaining about the same topic. Geez! I thought they were supposed to get their education in a "Pirivena", go to university follow something in "Buddhist Philosophy" or something in those lines, so that they can use those teachings in their Temples. I don't have anything against Monks teaching in Schools. But thats it. Not politics nor other jobs!

Women-Only Traffic Police Unit

Russians have done it again! They are going to create Women only unit to patrol the streets. Why? Coz the men apparently let the traffic offenders get off in exchange for bribes. So why women? "There is research which proves that women are not inclined to bribe-taking,"

Hmm.. so now do I hear all you ladies shout discrimination? "Women also Except Bribes!, just like our male counterparts!" or just blush away and say how rightoues you are, forgetting about the equality of your fellow males.

Anyways I caught this on GOLD FM, so I did some "Googling" here's what I got.

Yahoo - Only women need apply for Russia traffic police
BBC - Russia to get women traffic cops

Anyways that leads us thinking about one thing. How would this apply to our Beautiful little Island Paradise Sri Lanka? Yes we all know that corruption is high on the streets all over from Cops to Govt Offices.

Think of your self being pulled over by a Female Cop. How are you going to get her to accept a bribe?

Cop - "Ah mahaththaya gamu License eka eliyata"

You - "Ah Madam? (I use Ralahami on males, but Ralahamine aint that hip eh?) Mama awe "Kaha" Light eke ne!

Cop - "Me aiyse boru kiyanna epa, kaha light eka thiyenne enna newey ne?"

You - "Na ethin, kola eka enna hitiye, ewunata eka Kaha wunane"

Cop - "Ehanang eka api Usawiye balagamu!!!"

You (hearing the mention of Court, pullin out your wallet) - "Naha naha, apita monwath karaganna barida me gana?"

.. For you guys to fill the rest ..

Check Points in SL

Not be confused with the Production going on the boards this weekend - Check Point!

What is the practicality of all these check points imposed all over Colombo and the spot checks carried out at entry points to the city?

For most of us affected, it's merely a Traffic Jam and a bloody inconvenience. I mean realistically speaking, you don't find concealed bombs during these checks. Most of these are discovered by tip-off's of vigilant law abiding citizens. There is no way by holding the mirror under a car you are going to discover anything, except maybe the no of dents on your under carriage that you've accumulated going over "over-sized" speed bumps.

It gives the chaps a chance to have a good look at a Hot Chick driving her Maruti or Beemer. Get her to step out, open the boot, and check her "Boot" out.

If your Tamil, your in for trouble. As a ton of questions maybe fired at you, and watching you with skeptical eyes as you winch while answering them. Basically it's safe to get your self a Police Report. I experienced this, when one of my contractors was refused entry at a 5 star hotel, saying high security blah blah during SAG, just because he was Tamil. I know this is going to cause an uproar of people claiming "Discrimination" and all the works. Well taking the situation into account, I think you have to live with it. No I don't think all tamils are Terrorists, and I believe that all Terrorist's AREN'T Tamil either. Gives you something to think abt.

So what do these "Checkpoints" achieve besides the above?

It servers as a deterrent! The effort required to plan an attack would have increased. In some instances even avoid such attacks. Not that it gives you a true sense of peace of mind, but knowing that it wont be easy as the last time, gives you some satisfaction. Specially for people like my self, who are always on the move.

One thing I need to comment on is the Army H.Q. I am a firm believer that the attack on the Army Cmdr was plausible due to the simple fact of the lack of a metal detector at the entrance. This has been rectified (little too late), however additional measure of a ramp being installed in the location, to check vehicles entering the H.Q. is commendable, however the practicality of them will be something for us to see in the future.

On a last note, well I'd like to thank all those manning these checkpoints (I know I might have insulted a few of them, with what I said above, lets not generalize it may be only a few) as our lives are at their hands! So the next time I curse their parents, it's only out of sheer frustration!

Microsoft Get Ass Whipped !!

Patent penalty against Microsoft increased $25 million!

Microsoft willfully infringed on the patents of a small Michigan company and engaged in litigation misconduct in its effort to defend itself, a federal judge ruled Friday.

U.S. District Judge Leonard Davis upped a jury's award against Microsoft by $25 million, plus nearly $2 million in legal costs. He cited several instances of misconduct and "ample circumstantial evidence" that Microsoft viewed the patent-holder, closely held z4 Technologies, as "a small and irrelevant company that was not worthy of Microsoft's time and attention, even if Microsoft was potentially infringing its patents."

Serves you right Mr. Gates, caught with your pants down, thinking you can run over small companies! Although the penalty must be like toffees to you!

We need Google-Fi in Sri Lanka.

Wired News: Putting Google-Fi to the Test - Google has pledged Free Wi-Fi in US, and here's Wired News, putting it to test. They've pleged 1mbps. So far the guys at Wired have experienced 900kbps - 190kbps.

When are they gonna come over here? This is what Sri Lanka needs.

Shit Happens only in Sri Lanka

All Sri Lankans should be proud, of our Lads and Lasses as they are doing the Country proud at the SAF GAMES! Are we 2nd or 3rd? According to GOLD's, we're third?

Medals Table

However there are a few droplets of "Gob" that cant stop hitting the "Milk Pot" as would be expressed in Local Terms. What am I talking abt?

1. Andrew Abeysinghe. There is a lot of controversy regarding this, and myself do not have any links to the Swimming Arena in SL, therefore cant comment on who is right or not.

BUT, I certainly can give you my opinion on how he's being treated. The lad after winning two gold's, gets cat called by the affected parents "Go America, Cmon America", while taking his mark on what ever that thingy they take their mark on, and during the ceremony. This is outright BULL!, and proves how Pathetic we Sri Lankans are. After he's selected to represent Sri Lanka, he is "Sri Lankan". No matter what, whether in disgust, either protest outside or be silent while the boy is taking his mark, not for anything but he's trying to win Sri Lanka a GOLD!

Thats all I'm going to spend on Andrew for now. Further readings.

Poncha taken by surprise by Abeysinghe

VIC's Blog Post that Spiked a bit of controversy

2. A potential Gold Medalist, Sri Lankan mind you, beaten by 6 men, broken limbs and in hospital. He's even is the Marathon scheduled for Monday. So is this the epitome of someone's jealousy towards some others achievements? I don't know the entire story behind this but it's truly saddening to see things like this happen here.

Daily Mirror (Need Registration)

3. Also I read that the Games have been marred by Biased Judging of Officials in the Boxing Arena, giving Pakistan the upper hand. Why couldn't this be avoided, is beyond my comprehension?

Daily News - Winning silver is good as gold - Harsha, Indika

Anyways, please do share your opinions and comments. I don't mean to be a dampener, but these are the Facts behind the SAF GAMES.

Exams Finally..... AREN'T Over

Ok so, whats this all about? By now I thought I'd be flying as free as a Bird. But unfortunately it is not the case. Now I have to live my life, in doubt, fear, anxiety. No I'm not taking part for Miss Universe nor am I a "Terror Suspect". Just that one of my papers got postponed. The one that I was kinda "fit" with. This is how it all happened :

Exam start time Saturday 2.00pm, we are supposed be in the Hall 1.30pm. I get their on time, do some last minute prepping and realize that there are some confusions in some Commands (Linux). Make up my mind to write what ever! So we take our seats and notice an a low turn out. I figured the subject was not a Popular one, but hell people that had places reserved for them, not showing up isn't that common. Then at 2pm, a coordinator announces that a Security Check Point at the Kelaniya Bridge is causing a huge jam, and many students will be getting late. So lets give them Half an hour!!

Arrrgh!! That just what you need. When you've got your self pumped up, turned those nervous growls in your stomach into some sort of Adrinalin. I just lost it. Many of us there were pissed. Half an hour later, people start talking about postponement, giving us full marks (yeah right) and what not. This is killing me as right now I'm not in a position to sit for it, coz I've lost the "oomph" and fear that I wouldn't give it all I got, if I have to write it now. Thankfully, the coordinator dude steps in and announces the Exam is postponed indefinitely, tomorrows papers are on schedule.

So where does that leave me. Pissed that I couldn't finish off this headache that I've been carrying on for 3 years. Knowing the dudes at UCSC they'll give like 3 days notice, and by the time they have it, you'll have to start studying again. Aharrgh!

There you go, any ways the Good news is "I'm Back" and the bad news is you have to deal with my "Ramblings"!

I wish I could rip your HAIR out ?!

Darrell, Darrell, Darrell, what have you got your self into? Is it us South Asians that you fear? Did you think that just because a few Pakistani's were (supposedly) involved in the British Hunt Down for Terro, you could do your part on the Field?

Well this wasn't the first for you? You had to call Murali a "Chucker". Why? Does he scare you? Ok, the first mistake was forgiven, but after the bloke being cleared, you have to write in your little book "you still think Murali is a chucker".

So what you have created history, getting two teams to walk out on Test Matches. Hope you can sleep well in bed tonight, knowing that you have the Indian Team to "play your little games with" and maybe even the Bangladesh team, before you quit.

It'll be a sorry situation though, if the Asian Teams could getogether as "ONE" like they have stood for many things in the past, and demand you apologize publicly (if you can put your self to it) and keep you away from Cricket Pitches that they trod on.

Was there a smirk on your face, when the Pakistani team had to walk into the field among the "Boo's" of the crowd? Felt happy about your self eh? Well sleep well, you lowly bastard, since none of the 26 cameras on the Ground caught some thing

Here's a list of Hair's contributions to the "Gentleman's Game".

Further reading.

About the Bloke.

On a different note, the mighty Mark Boucher say's "BRING IT ON". Oooo we are soo scared!!

Both these guys should be added to the "Google Failure list". If you aren't sure what I'm talking about. Type "failure" on Google and look who's on "Top".

Exams exams.. urgh!!

Some of you must have been wondering why I have been silent for a while. Specially when soo much has been happening around. Well I have no fears as the rest of the bloggers are keeping up with the posts, and whenever I have found time, I've added my little comments on them

No I have not been silenced by the Pussies, with a gun to my head nor have I received any threatening phone calls. (Upto now)

As the Title would suggest, I am sitting for me Finals on Saturday. For those of you who are wondering what? where? Well I started this External Course at University of Colombo in IT, what they call "BIT". Well while I thought it would be something I'd do on the weekends and keep it on the side, I got more than what I've bargained for, and on many occasions wanted to quit.

Kudos, to my girl friend who kept me at it, hopefully finishing what I started this week. There fore please except my humble apologies for the emptiness of this blogspace, if you miss my posts (yeah right?) go through my archives or check my blog roll.

Anyways, this is over and out from me, in my vein attempt to study, for what would seem like a monumental moment in my life.

PS - I forgot.. pls wish me luck! That's the only thing I can count on at the moment.

Kandy (Asela) Perahera - Online!

This is two days late, but thought I'd put it down anyways. While watching Rupavahini on the 9th, I happened to see an Ad : "Live Web Cast of the Perahera". About time I thought, that some thing as beautiful as this, boasting the cultural heritage of our little island be broadcasted for the rest of the world.

Since I'm stuck with a Dialup at home, I wasn’t able to enjoy the experience, so I cant comment on the actual "Web Cast". However I feel that not enough publicity was given, not that anybody in SL is going to bother to Watch the Perahera online, while it was been shown Live on 2/3 TV Channels. But it would have given a chance for the Local's to call up their relations abroad and
inform them. I wonder what the international publicity was like, as the web cast was catered to the Foreign Audience as well with narrations in English, Japanese, French and German.

Wonder whether they'll release a Streaming Video of the "Perahera". This coming at a time, where international media sees Sri Lanka once again as a Country full of conflict, would be an ideal, to show that it's only in a part of the country and as indi says, the country is still going on, and there are many things to see in this beautiful country.

Proper undergarments should be worn but not visible.

While going through one of V-I-C's posts I stumbled upon another story. "Cleavage Ban in Arlington School". Thought I'd post the Dress Code, so you guys can compare and let me know what you guys think. I for one, wasn't lucky enough to be placed in "Mixed School".

Now isn't this a crime against Humanity? (Seems to be the in thing, in SL - I meant crimes against humanity) Human Rights violation? Not letting them nice girls wear what they want. Googling more on this issue I found this : Panty Ranting. I'm sure, attendance rates are gonna drop in School.

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THE STUDENT DRESS CODE

A student’s conduct is related to his/her clothing. Therefore, the school is directly concerned with the student’s clothing. The appropriateness of a student’s clothing for the school environment should dictate the choice of clothing and grooming practices on each given day.

Some campuses have implemented a uniform requirement pursuant to AISD policy FNCA (Local). See p. 56-60. Parents and students should check with the campus to confirm whether uniforms are required.

All students are expected to adhere to common practices of modesty, cleanliness and neatness; to dress in a respectful manner within the acceptable standards of the community and in such a manner as to contribute to the academic atmosphere, not detract from it. Students who fail to comply with this dress code may be sent home and be subject to disciplinary actions.

Any clothing, accessories, symbols, jewelry, or other paraphernalia, which depicts or suggests association with a gang, secret society, or fraternity, shall not be brought to school, worn at school, or in any way be present at any school-sponsored event.

ANY OTHER CONSIDERATIONS WILL BE DETERMINED BY THE INDIVIDUAL SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS. THE SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION SHALL HAVE THE RIGHT TO CONSIDER ANY CURRENT FASHION TO DETERMINE ITS ACCEPTABILITY FOR SCHOOL WEAR.

Clarification regarding apparel should be obtained PRIOR TO WEARING IT TO SCHOOL; this can be obtained from the school administration. Students in violation of this policy will be subject to disciplinary action as determined by the school’s administration.

Teachers are charged with the responsibility of enforcing student dress code in their classes as well as on campus. Administrators and other school personnel share the same responsibility. Teachers shall follow building procedure for discipline referral regarding dress code violations.
No attempt will be made to dictate fashion styles as long as they are in keeping with district policies. It should be noted, however, that it is the responsibility of the student and parent that the student adhere to the dress code, as follows:

GENERAL:

1. a. Any clothing, jewelry or accessories with decorations, patches, lettering, advertisements, etc., that may be considered obscene or offensive are not to be worn to school. This includes any clothing, jewelry, accessories that may be used as weapons, accessories having drug, sexual emblems, tobacco or alcoholic beverage references or designs.

b. Form-Fitting garments such as spandex may only be worn with another layer of clothing, which meets the dress code.

SHIRTS & BLOUSES

2. a. Crop tops, tube tops, halters and spaghetti straps are unacceptable (anything less than 2 inches is considered a spaghetti strap.) Strapless dresses without jackets are unacceptable.

b. The display of cleavage is unacceptable. Low cut blouses, tops, sweaters etc. with plunging necklines are not allowed.

c. The length of an untucked shirt must be no longer than the tip of the longest finger with the student’s hand fully extended down the side of the student’s leg.

d. Transparent and/or see through material is considered unacceptable. Shirts/tops must touch the waist of pants/skirts at all times (i.e. when in movement, when arms are extended or raised, and when in seated position, etc.)

e. At the secondary level, a boy’s shirt should cover the entire crown of the shoulder.

f. Tall T-Shirts are not permitted.

DRESSES, SKIRTS:

3. a. The length of a skirt/dress must be a minimum of half the distance between the fingertips and the top of the knee when the student’s hand is fully extended down the side of the student’s leg.

b. When measuring skirts, dresses, or shorts/skorts that have slits, the length will be determined by measuring from the top of the slit.

SHORTS, SKORTS

4. a. The minimum length of shorts/skorts must be no shorter than the tip of the longest finger with student’s hand fully extended down the side of the student’s leg.

PANTS:

5. a. Intentionally torn or cut/slashed pants are considered inappropriate.
Manufactured boot-cut slits are acceptable.

SAGGING PANTS:
6. a. No Sagging.
b. Students shall wear their trousers or overalls properly at the waist.

ACCESSORIES:

7. a. All students must wear shoes.
b. Students should wear athletic footwear in order to participate in any physical education class.
c. Hair should be kept neat, clean, and reasonably styled.

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Blast in Colombo - Humanitarians @ Work!

Just minutes ago, a blast was reported in Dickmans Road, Bambalapitiya Sri Lanka... land like no other!

I'm waiting for it to hit the net, according to the radio (Sirasa), they've seen a Vehicle caught fire, and the injured been taken to Hospital.

Hmm.. maybe the vehicle caught fire on it's own.



UPDATE :

Reports are that it's an EPDP member with the name of P. Sivadasen. The blast has happened (reportedly) come from within the Vehicle it self.

LTTE making it clear that, they are the Only voice for Tamil People. After all when you keep bumping members of other Tamil Political parties, your bound to be the ONLY representitve, now aren't you?


UPDATE # 2

Sivathasan NOT dead.. only injurred! An innocent School Girl, and a passenger in the Vehicle are identified as the victims.

Entire story below :

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka (AP) - A car bomb exploded in front of a girls' school in the Sri Lankan capital of Colombo on Tuesday, killing at least two people and wounding seven, the Media Centre of the Defence Ministry and police said.

Among the dead was a girl who was walking past the car when it exploded, said Rienzie Perera, a police spokesman. The identity of the other victim, whose body was inside the vehicle, was not immediately known.

Dr. Anil Jasinghe of Colombo's National Hospital said at least seven people have been admitted with injuries.

The apparent target was S. Sivathasan, a former legislator for the Eelam People's Democratic Party, which bitterly opposes the country's separatist Tamil Tiger guerrillas, according to party leader Douglas Devananda.

Sivathasan, who was injured and admitted to a hospital, was near the school when the explosion occurred, Devananda said.

Officials say they suspect Tamil Tigers were behind the attack.

The EPDP renounced violence decades back and joined the country's political mainstream. The Liberation Tiger of Tamil Eelam, who are campaigning for a separate homeland for the country's 3.2 million Tamils, oppose the EPDP.

In July 2004, a suicide bomber targeted Devananda, who is also a government minister. The bomber detonated explosives that killed four.

Here's the Tamil Net version of it.

A senior EPDP official and six others were wounded in a bomb explosion in Colombo around 2:00 p.m. Tuesday. The EPDP official, Sankarapillai Sivathasan, a long time EPDP advisor, a relative of EPDP leader Douglas Devandanda, and a former parliamentarian of the EPDP, was rushed to Colombo hospital. The explosion took place opposite a restaurant on Dickmans Road in Bambalapitya.

Further details are not available at the moment.

EPDP is a paramilitary group working with the Sri Lanka Army military intelligence in the Northeast SLA controlled territories and an ally of Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapakse.


Just glancing through both articles, you'd say they are pretty much the same. But if you read it carefully you'll notice, LTTE chose a Restaurent as a Land Mark, while the other chose a School. If your familiar with Dickmans Road, you'd realize that both are relatively close and opposite each other.

Oh also they forget to mention the loss of a School Girls life. How very HUMANITARIAN of them?

Mavil Aru belongs to the LTTE or GoSL?

There has been a notion put forward by many that Mavil Aru, is under Tiger Controlled area, and the offensive launched by the GoSL is a clear violation of the Cease Fire. However the Govt, claims that it has always been under them, and the maintenance of the dam, has been carried out by Govt. Engineers.

If this is the case, a huge unjust has been done, as a different picture has been painted for the International Community courtesy Mr. Erik Solheim. Also the fact that, the deprivation of water, equals an act against humanity hasn't been highligted at all by the foreign media. Only headlines that amount to "GoSL launches offensive into Tiger Controlled Areas" are seen.

While we debate on these issues, a nation is waiting for a Miracle in Buddhist Temples, and it's sons are fighting a fierce battle with the LTTE, on different battle fronts.

There is absolutely no news (Released to the public) regarding the exact situation at Mavilaru, from both parties. From what looks like it, the GoSL troops find it difficult to proceed, as they have to cross a bare land, which is heavily mined/booby trapped, amidst LTTE artillery fire, 300 meters away from the anicut. They have been stagnant in this position for over a day, either waiting for reinforcements, or the perfect time to strike.

On a different ground the LTTE launched an attack on Muttur, attempting to claim the village, however it is reported that the Govt. Forces managed to successfully retaliate. According to the Govt. the mission saw the demise of two senior leaders of the LTTE are "Muttu Selvi" and "Purachchi" who had led the attack on the unsuccessful capturing of Muttur area along with several other cadres .

The LTTE were further discouraged, when one of their boats were blasted off by SLN Multi Barrel Launches, and found their second boat fleeing the scene.

However they(LTTE) chose to retaliate, by pointing their artillery in the direction of 2 Muslim schools "Arabic College" and "Nuriya Muslim School" where civilians were temporarily sheltered. As a result over 20 civilians have been reported dead, and many more wounded. Among them are Children as well.

The very same allegation has been landed on the GoSL, by the LTTE as well.

Test of Faith?

This post comes along with a host of others on the local Blogsphere. Since this is holy ground I don't want to tread on anything in my attempt to gravel at this mystery with my limited knowledge of Buddhism. Yes yes, I'm a Buddhist too.

So we all know that there have been "rays" in many Buddha statues around the country, causing many traffic jams and an insurgence of people to temples. There have been many arguments presented, and I'm merely going to give you my opinions on those, rather than side with one party.

What do 'they' see?

1. The most simple is that it's a trick of the mind, when you stare at the Statue, around the region of the neck of Lord Buddha. This can be true as the robe is of "Orange" colour, and the skin of the Lord Buddha, is depicted in a "light yellow" colour. So experts argue that, staring at these two colours, your bound to see "green". Which supposed to be the colour of the "rays" that people see.

Scientific Explanation (Copied off an Email I got)

The sensitive area in eye is known as retina. This retina consists of large number of small sensitive cells. When you look at the edge of the two colors, the cells in the orange area saturates to the color orange while the cells in the yellow area saturates to the color yellow. When a cell is saturated to a color, it takes some time to come to the normal state. If you look at some other color before that cell get normalized, the cell would not be able to identify that color immediately. As a result of this you would see a different color in that region.

Basically if you stare long enough at the center line between the 2 colours, you see a shade of green invading from the center line towards the yellow side. Looks like it's rising from the center line.

2. People have seen the air floating around/up the same area of the statue. People argue the same happens when you see a "mirage". So is this all a mirage?

What is the symbolism behind all this?

1. Something "Good" happening :

Well Sri Lankan folk law states that the birth of "Diyasena Kumaraya*" will be marked with such unusual happenings like "Budu Ras" from all the Temples and a "Sal Mala" of a notable size (As big as a cart wheel) on the Tree near the "Kirinda Devale" are a few. Arguments against this are that he's due, 2500 years after the birth of the "Lord Buddha". In other words he's 50 years late. Well my opinion is how sure are we of the counting and tracking of years, after all our history is just a bunch of folk tales, written into "Mahawansa".

* For those who aren't familiar with "Diyasena Kumaraya" he's supposed to be a prince that will bring Buddhism to what it was, rescue the faith, maybe unite the country, and also future "Lord Buddha" some argue. (Some argued it was Mahinda, coz he was born in 1946, fat lot he has achieved..)

Anyways there's a nice song detailing the wait for the prince and the situation of Buddhism in this country by Gunadasa Kapuge. I've included the lyrics for you guys to go through. Gives you something to think about.

These happenings have also been justified by some saying it's the Perahera period.

2. Something "Bad" happening :

Well there is reportedly a "Buddha Statue" in the "Maligawa" that sweats** when something "Bad" is going to occur. This was supposedly the case just before the "Maligawa" was attacked by the LTTE. Inside sources say that there is no change in this "Buddha Statue".

**Sweat/Perspire means the statue gets a moisture covering of some sort. I believe the statue is a relatively small statue made of stone, kept inside the chambers of the tooth relic it self.

With the waging war, it could be easily argued that its a sign of "Bad" things to come, rather than "Good" things to come.

After all rumours are that, the LTTE want another uprising like the '83 to justify their cause, and hope to ignite it, by setting off something close to all Sinhala/Buddhist hearts and souls. Many of my friends and I have debated possible targets like "Anuradhapura", "Polonnaruwa", "Maligawa" again, or massacring of "Several Bikkhus".


Unanswered Questions ?

1. Many are asking how come this is not seen in statues made of stone? Eg: "Awkuna", "Samadhi", these statues are also considered heritage and high in religious value. Many people have seen "Budu Ras" emitting from the "Samadhi" statue but those people have been meditating nearby and in some sort of an attained state, not the common folk. So is that "Budu Ras" and the one seen these days different?

2. Smart Observers have claimed that the phenomenon can also be observed in other statues. Eg: "Sariyuth Thero"?

3. If this is only a phenomenon in the eye .. how come nobody saw this before? It's been like that for centuries. A answer maybe that, one person would have noticed this recently, and got people to stare long enough to see it, and basically it spread like a wild fire. (A similar argument is being formalized for the Alien sighting in SL, people actually didn't know till they saw "Bhavatra"). A priest has come forth an stated that "Green" isn't the colour for "Budhu Ras".

4. What is the actual Colour of "Budu Ras" is it the stereo type "yellow"? I have a few friends who've seen similar rays, in "Ruvanvalisaya" where they conduct a "Pichcha Mal Pooja" with an offering of 100,000 flowers.

5. Is this only happening in Temples? Nope. This phenomenon have been taken place in churches, kovils all over the world, not only is Sri Lanka. However some have been proved as hoax.


My conclusion
Although some might argue that we are soo easily fooled by such things, specially the innocent "Upasaka Amma's", I believe that if something increases your faith towards something there is not harm in it. However Lord Buddha him self has taught us not to believe everything you see, and get rid of all those illusion, or "mithyadushtikathwaya". You can argue on both sides, so I'll let you guys decide on your own, for your selves. I just wanted to present my thoughts on this issue. Not to make you a believer, or a non-believer. (ok.. ok.. maybe I wanted you to listen to the song.. you got me there!)

Listen to the Streaming of "Dampiyawa" - (Real Player Req. - 11th Song on the list.)

Humanitarian Efforts - Part II

Since my previous post -Increased Humanitarian Efforts by the LTTE, the chappies have realized that their efforts have been recognized, and decided to further increase them. How is it possible to further increase? Well take a look at our Fuel Prices, just when you think there's no way you can increase the price, they just mock you and make you look pretty dumb.

Anyways LTTE have a few chappies who like swimming and diving besides the usual tiger sports (like blowing themselves up) who call them "Sea Tigers". So they decided to help out some of the blokes at SL Navy when they were transporting troops, thought they'd pull up close and say "hi", maybe tag along to the Trinco Harbour as well, just 25-50 meters away from where they were. Our edgy Sailors decided to shoo them away, coz they weren't too friendly the last time - Perl Cruiser incident. Well the tiger chappies didn't like being shoo'ed, and each side decided to pull out their guns, and play "Cow Boy" in the sea. Well unfortunately the tigers had to swim back to their hommies in "Ealam Land", so the totally biased GoSL reports.

Now how can I not talk about Humanitarian and not talk about the "Mavilaru" incident. As I stated in another blog, this was totally blown up by the GoSL. This actually wasn't a Humanitarian effort by the LTTE. They were doing their rounds, and saw them gates, and since they hadn't been checked for a while (open and close them), thought they'd do it then and there. Unfortunately some bloke got it stuck, so they had to wait for the Tigers who are good with their hands to resolve the issue, (Engineers they call them). Now why didn't they let the Army Engineers help em out, coz their mummies had told em when they were cubs "Clean your shit, your selves!" Now you at home thinking where am I making such a baseless argument. Well I have my facts, from none other than Tamil Net. Unbiased media reporting. Wonder why they didn't get the award for "Best News" along with Rupavahini and Sirasa.

Anyways this is what is said on Tamil Net :

Serunuwera Raja Maha Viharaya Chief Priest

Serunuwera Raja Maha Viharaya Chief Priest the venerable Saranakeerthi Serunuwera Thera told the Daily Mirror he was informed the LTTE was preparing to re-open the Maavilaru anicut just hours before the military operation was launched and believed the confrontation could have been avoided.

See, if only those 30,000 odd families waited a measly hour more..??

Swedish Major General Ulf Henricsson(SLMM) :

"“It is definitely the wrong method. It is definitely overkill if you want the water,"

““We sat talking and got clearance from the government and tried to convince the LTTE to have confidence in the government,” he said. “[Then] they dropped a bomb in the vicinity. That's not the right signal.”

See, our chappies at SLAF sent the wrong signal, and mind you "over kill". After all the tigers were getting ready to open the gates. And why couldn't they do it?

Elilan told the Daily Mirror :

“Even if we are to open the anicut how can we go there with a military operation going on. They will first have to stop the military operation and only then can we discuss other issues,”

Why did all of this start. Some say (besides my accurate justification) that it's coz the GoSL was planning to build tanks in Govt. controlled areas. How rude!?! To leave out the Tigers, to fend for them selves. After all their "Ealam Home land" has to be built by the GoSL with the money ADB approved for "Sri Lanka". Well more thoughts/justifications are discussed in following posts (I hope you guys don't mind me linking):

• holding water hostage
• We closed Mavil Aru to protest against EU ban - LTTE

On a more serious note.. (now you guys know I was joking... he he) The situation remains unknown to many of us as both parties remain tight lipped about the current proceedings, as this is a crucial point of the "Beginning of the End".

If the GoSL troops manage to secure the anicut, and drive away the LTTE, the LTTE would be forced tp increase the intensity in other areas, and even drop a big ass bomb in city, to asertain their dominance, and lost pride.

If the LTTE manage to keep the GoSL at bay, the GoSL will increase air strikes on other LTTE strong holds and keep on trying to regain MavilAru.

No matter what happens, I don't see both parties sitting back for discussions after this, as the Foreign Community (Norwegians and SLMM specially) have lost hope, and the EU countries pulling out, would weaken the SLMM, and sooner or later the entier SLMM would pull out and declare the proceeding as a failure.

How to know of a Fuel Price Hike, a week before?

There are many ways to get to know this.

1. Insider info.
2. Use your own intuition.
3. In SL. A politico will claim that he will make sure Fuel Prices wont go up.

Yes yes. From the horses mouth. There be a chap called Fowzie by name, and Transport be his game. Well he's being given the task to play mind games with dumb Sri Lankans.

The last time, (ok not the last time but the time before) he went on to say that he will not let a price hike for another year. I mean we all know thats ridiculous, like you have control over all events happening in the World. Eg: As if you can control the Strikers in Nigeria. (Ofcourse they can, they have good experience back home.. what was I thinking?). So before a week went by we heard the same fool say, "Since the Winter, (at the time in US and Europe)we are forced to increase the price since the high demand, we have no choice".

Ok so learnt your lesson Mr. Fowzie? No! This chappi goes on record saying there is no reason for the Ceypetco to raise prices, although the Indian buggers will be selling at a high price.

Well what do you know, 5 days later... today.. from midnight.. Fuel goes up by 3 bucks.....

If by chance you pay for fuel by CC, add another 3.5 odd percent for Fuel Surcharge and 10 bucks for every 1000 bucks. Add another 10 bucks for every thousand if by chance you pay your CC by cheaque or withdrawal from a Bank.

*CC - Credit Card

Thank god we have our own Nostradamus.

Superman Returns -> Lt. Gen. Fonseka

Lt. Gen. Fonseka : "I, as the Commander of the Army on the day of my return to work after surviving the recent gruesome suicide terrorist attack, wish to extend my sincere gratitude and tribute to all Religious dignitaries of Major denominations, His Excellency, the President, Prime Minister, Government Ministers and Members of Parliament, Secretary Defence, Medical Specialists and Doctors, Nursing Staff and Paramedics, members of the Army, Navy, Air-Force and the Police, Media Personnel, Foreign dignitaries, Principals and Teachers of schools, various Associations and Public Forums, School Children, Members of the Public, Friends and former colleagues, Relatives and well-wishers who remained a tower of strength behind myself as well as members of my family ever since I was hospitalized after the attack. I also regret that I may not be able to express my gratitude individually to all those who visited the hospital and sent messages, as it was not possible to remain acquainted due to the tragic circumstances prevailed at that time". "Your prayers and blessings by way of Bodhi Poojas, Special Poojas and Holy services, no doubt enormously contributed to expedite my path to recovery after the dastardly crime that took 11 lives and injured another 28. It is your thoughts and consideration that inspired and provided much required solace to me as well as members of my family to rise to the challenge enabling me to return to work. So did all greeting cards directed to me." "Let me also assure you that I will proceed from here to fulfil my responsibilities undeterred by the dastardly act. I strongly believe your blessings and sentiments will provide me with the necessary strength to complete that unfulfilled mission for a better tomorrow. Thank you."

Courtesy : Daily News

The man of the moment has made his return. I'm not too sure of his health condition but he seems preety fit in the pic. Despite claims/rumours, that he'd lost his leg, arm etc.

The need of the hour is a stong leadership, and since I dont see much of that around, I hope the return of the Lt. Gen will bring balance to the Force (as they would call it in Star Wars). It's nice to see a Military Toughy returning to the seen rather than bowing out, while he had a good excuse.

Kudos to you sir!