Return To Sri Lanka

It has been many years since I Last visited Sri Lanka. Circumstances then,
were very different for both me and Sri Lanka, (The Pearl Of The Indian Ocean).
In those days it was engulfed in an abysmal civil war. A Nation that was once destined
to a global jewel, eclipsed by cheerless clouds of bloodshed and sorrow. Myself, I was
emerging from my own personal shadows, one and a half years of hospitalisation
and 52 reconstructive operations had put me on my feet and brought me
to this confluence of paradise and purgatory. I was still in the service and
my presence there was in my official capacity, thus I was not merely an observer
of the disparaging situation. My memories were of nostalgic bonds that only brothers-in-arms know of.
Painfully poignant, in the fact that not a single comrade survives today.

But now, the clouds have faded away. Hope and promise shine on this land of wonder.
But still I caution you. You will be overawed by the plethora of sights sounds and
fragrances that saturates the senses

Mesmerizing by the diversity of scenic beauty from verdant tropical plains,
to rain forests ,to pristine beached unsullied by throngs of tourists, fertile Valleys
and luxuriant Hills

Your palette Intoxicated by exotic cuisine.

Your soul captivated by the unique blending of philosophy,
Buddhist, Hindu, Muslim, Christian. The smorgasbord of historic cultural
influences, ancient and modern Lankan, Portuguese, Dutch, Colonial British
and even a hint of old Arabian and Moorish influences.

Your heart beguiled by the soft spoken friendly people,
Captivated by a country that exudes warmth welcoming and congeniality.

Beware you will lose your heart to the pearl of the Indian Ocean.

As a photographer, my only regret is, that I have not been able to capture
even the minutest fraction of the beauty radiating from this land.

(Re-edited 13-06-2016 because some of the original images are no longer in my portfolio)