Xerophytes for sale, Waters Edge, Colombo.

Xerophytes - Plants thriving in water-scarce dessert conditions are easy to look after in flats. These come in a variety of shapes and sizes and add colour to a living room. They need minimal attention.

Traditions of a 'House-warming' ceremony, Sri Lanka.

Lighting-up the brass lamp.

Placing the pot of milk on a make-shift hearth.

Lighting-up the hearth.

The pot of milk boiling over.

Entry to a new residence is associated with so many traditions in Sri Lanka. An auspicious day and time are chosen by an astrologer. The brass-lamp is lighted at the specified time. The pot of milk is placed on a make-shift hearth and the hearth lighted up. The milk boiling over equally all round the rim of the clay pot is considered a good sign. The table covered with sweet-meats already prepared is uncovered and the guests enjoy the meal.

Boating on the Diyawanna Oya, 'Water's Edge', Colombo, Sri Lanka.

Canoeing

Sailing

The 'Water's Edge' near the Parliament is a hive of activity now. This beats the old 'Galle Face Green' for leisure activities.
Video:-
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_smQdqG1ESo

'Thooku Kaavady' - Acts of penance, Avissawella, Sri Lanka

Suspended in a cradle of ropes.

Suspended on hoos throush the skin.

A procession from one 'Paththini Kovil' to another in Avissawella. These acts are done to fulfil a vow to the Goddess 'Paththini'. The 'Paththini cult' was introduced around the 2nd Century of the Present Era into Sri Lanka. It is a very-much live cult in this area now.
Video:-
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NLQAINZfwYI

Two flowers, Sri Lanka.

An orchid in our garden.

A dahlia at The Waters Edge, Colombo