Category Archives: Travel

IMPROVING SELF MANAGEMENT SKILLS OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES

Travel seeks to improve the self-management skills of people with disabilities in their daily routine, since the travelling and its planning are used as a tool to practicing in collaboration with the travel team to take a step forward. For example, emphasis is placed on the management of the finances available to the team for each trip, the creation of concept maps about “what, when and how to decide to participate in a leisure activity during the #travel ”, the preparation of materials adapted to people with diverse #disabilities. 

Manique Gunaratne created an opportunity for a group of persons with disabilities to visit the Ibbankatuwa Cemetery in Dambulla of Mathale district May 2022.

Ibbankatuwa Megalithic Cemetery (also known as Ibbankatuwa Proto-historic Burial Site) is an ancient burial site situated in Dambulla in Matale District, Sri Lanka. Extended in an area of about 13 hectares, the site comprises a large number of burials in cists made of stone slabs dating to the 7th century B.C. The cemetery is considered the biggest and the best-preserved proto-historic burial site in the country. 

The cemetery site is located on the left bank of the Dambulu Oya, a tributary of Kala Oya. It generally consists of stone cist type burial graves of the Megalithic tradition. The burial chambers are square and rectangular in shape and have been constructed by placing granite slabs vertically erected Several chambers were covered with capstones and some of them were visible on the surface even before the excavations. In 1984, surface explorations performed at the site exposed a few non-Brahmi symbols (pictograms) inscribed on three separate cist capstones 

Large and small clay pots containing human ashes were found placed inside the chambers. Certain clay pots were cylindrical in shape and smaller containers were discovered inside some of these clay vessels. Some tombs consist of multiple urns. A few pots contained minute bone fragments but none of the tombs contained complete or partial skeletons.

During the excavations, a large number of beads made of minerals such as clay, carnelian, onyx, agate were found inside the chambers. A majority of beads discovered in Ibbankatuwa are said to be exotics that originated hundreds of miles away in peninsular India. Cloth pins, bangles, leaf-shaped diadem, and metal objects such as iron, copper alloy, and gold were among the other findings of Ibbankatuwa. 

Pottery discovered from the site
Pottery discovered from the site
Burial garden
Burial garden
Inside the cemetery
Inside the cemetery
At the cemetery
At the cemetery
Team Members
Team Members
Group Photograph
Group Photograph
Items discovered from the site
Items discovered from the site
Direction name board
Direction name board
 Beads discovered from the site
Beads discovered from the site
 Beads discovered from the site
Beads discovered from the site
Pottery discovered from the site
Pottery discovered from the site

MANIQUE GUNARATNE
Blog: http://efcnetworkondisability.employers.lk/

OVERCOMING CHALLENGES FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES THROUGH TRAVEL

When persons with disabilities travel to another location, especially if it is unknown, you are forcing your brain to deal with a continuous problem-solving process and overcoming challenges. Traveling mainly requires learning and memorizing the unknown until it becomes normal and familiar. This is a challenge for  the brain and is like intense training. It is important to train and stimulate the brain because, over time, the more connections mean the greater cognitive reserve, thus making your brain more resistant to age-related decline or the symptoms of neurological disorders.

Manique Gunaratne created the opportunity for a group of persons with disabilities to visit the Nishshanka Latha Mandapaya in Polonnaruwa in January 2022.

Nishshanka Latha Mandapaya is a unique structure in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa in Sri Lanka. A màndapa is a pillared structure that is open on all sides and protects the person(s) inside from the sun with a roof. By definition, as of the 20th century, mándapas, as temporary structures, are built inside a house or a building and serve as recitation platform during remembrance ceremonies for the dead.

Built by King Nissanka Malla (1187-1196) and named after him, it is located near the western entrance of the Dalada Maluva, the area that contains the oldest and most sacred monuments in the city. A nearby stone inscription identifies this as the building used by Nissanka Malla to listen to pirith (chanting of Buddhist scriptures) 

The structure is an elevated stone platform with a number of stone columns and surrounded by a low stone wall. These stone columns are the unique feature about the Nissanka Latha Manadapaya, since they are carved in a manner that is found nowhere else in the country. The eight granite columns are arranged in two rows, with four in each row. Presumably used to support a roof, each of them is approximately 8 feet 4 inches (2.54 m) in height. In each of these columns, the crown is carved in the shape of a blossoming lotus bud. The rest of the column is elaborately carved to resemble the stem of the flower.Unlike stone columns commonly seen in the architecture of this period, these are not straight, but are curved in three places. According to archaeologist Senarath Paranavithana, the stone columns at the Nissanka Latha Mandapaya are the best examples of this feature of ancient Sri Lankan architecture. 

At the center of the platform, flanked by the stone columns, appears a small stupa. This is also made from stone, but the top part of it has been destroyed. Its base is decorated with a carved design. The platform is surrounded by a stone railing. The structure is entered through a single stone doorway. In contrast to the elaborately carved stone pillars, these have an undecorated and plain finish. 

Team members at the entrance.
Team members at the entrance
Manique near the Mandapaya
Manique near the Mandapaya
Team Members climbing the Stairs
Team Members climbing the Stairs
At the entrance
At the entrance
Manique near the Mandapaya
Manique near the Mandapaya
Nameboard
Nameboard
Stone Pillars
Stone Pillars
Nameboard
Nameboard
Stone Pillars
Stone Pillars
Climbing the stairs
Climbing the stairs

MANIQUE GUNARATNE
The Employers’ Federation of Ceylon,
385 J3 Old Kotte Road,
Rajagiriya,
Sri Lanka.

PROMOTING BRAIN HEALTH OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES THROUGH TRAVEL

Travel promotes brain health and there are  benefits to the brain functioning.  

Science has recently shown that the adult brain can form new neural connections but, obviously, this works like everything else, if you want to have biceps of steel, then you must train hard at the gym. Nowadays, we all know that brain training games can fight the ravages of aging video games designed to improve memory). All this results from what is known as “brain plasticity”, the ability of the nervous system to undergo structural and functional changes throughout life, in response to different environmental stimuli.

MANIQUE GUNARATNE CREATED THE OPPORTUNITY TO A GROUP OF PERSONS WITH DIVERSE DISABILITIES TO VISIT THE ADISHAM BANGALOW IN BADULLA DISTRICT IN AUGUST 2022.

The Adisham Bungalow was once the country house of Sir Thomas Lester Villiers, but today it houses the Adisham Monastery of the St. Benedict. Found just 3km away from Haputale town, the Adisham Bungalow is one of the most picturesque corners in the region.

Sir Thomas Villiers spared no expense when it came to his home, but what’s even more splendid than the actual house is its surroundings. Adisham Bungalow is perched on the edge of a cliff which is flanked by a larger outcrop fringed with tall pine trees, which somehow dwarf the house. The country home also has a wonderful view of the Uva valley, as well as a beautiful garden and orchard that you can stroll through.

Team Members
Team Members
Outside view of the bungalow
Outside view of the bungalow
Outside view of the bungalow
Outside view of the bungalow
 Team Members along the pathway
Team Members along the pathway
 Team Members at the Entrance
Team Members at the Entrance
Manique in the Garden
Manique in the Garden
Manique at the Natural Fruit Shop
Manique at the Natural Fruit Shop
Manique outside of the Bungalow
Manique outside of the Bungalow
Manique in the Garden
Manique in the Garden
 Team Members at the Entrance
Team Members at the Entrance
Manique at the Entrance
Manique at the Entrance
 Team Members at the Entrance
Team Members at the Entrance
 Team Members along the pathway
Team Members along the pathway
Pets at the Bungalow
Pets at the Bungalow
Team Members
Team Members

MANIQUE GUNARATNE
Board Member Navajeevana Rehabilitation

TRAINING PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES IN TASK MANAGEMENT

People with disabilities, both physical and intellectual—often need external stimuli to improve their psychosocial skills, as well as their cognitive capacities and management of everyday tasks. Traveling, in light of the above, opens up a wide range of possibilities when it comes to training each of these areas.

Ms. Manique Gunaratne gave the opportunity to a group of persons with #disabilities to visit the #Gadaladeniya Raja Maha Vihara Temple in Kandy in October 2022.

Built in 1344 by King Buwanekabahu IV, the Gadaladeniya Raja Maha Viharaya stands on the border of Udunuwara and Yatinuwara in the Kandy district. Located very close to the town of Pilimathalawa, the Gadaladeniya Temple (which had been named after the village in which it was built) was also called Gadaladeniya Gramaye Viharaya, Gadaladeniya Gramaye Saddharmakirthi Vihayara and Dharma Kirthi Viharaya. Saddharmakirthi was the name of the founding monk.

The Temple’s history:

According to historical evidence the chief architect of this Viharaya was Ganesvarachari, south Indian. This explains the predominantly south Indian influence in its design. It is also reported that the Viharaya fell into neglect over a period of time until King Viraparakrama Narendrasinha (1707 – 1739) handed its care over to Velivita Saranankara Thero and it was maintained thereafter by his students and generations of students that followed.

The main shrine which has a distinctive south Indian design stands on a rocky outcrop at the top end of the monastery premises. Inside one comes across a fine statue of the seated Buddha framed by a Makara Torana or Dragon Arch. This is surrounded by numerous images of deities such as Brahma, Suyama, Santhusthika, Maithri and Natha. Standing statues of the Buddha can be found on either side of the seated Buddha statue.

The seated Buddha statue encompasses the unique style of Buddhist sculpture of the Gampola period. Made of brick and mortar with plastering of lime and sand, it shows the Enlightened One in a pose known as the ‘Dhiyama Mudra’ or highest level of meditation. The body is painted in gold while the robe is red in colour. Other unique features which also reflect the influence of south Indian Buddhist sculpture are the eyes which are wide open while the brow and neck are clearly marked with wrinkles.

Furthermore, the serenity and calm depicted in early Buddha statues are absent from this one. The pedestal on which the statue rests is called the ‘Asana’ and the ‘Mal Asana’ is where floral offerings are placed. This ‘Mal Asana’ is decorated with floral designs said to have been the work of folk artists of the Kandyan era.

A secondary shrine sits in the middle of the Temple site. This has little ‘wings’ extending in cruciform angles, with each one forming small individual Buddha shrines. Each small shrine has its own Sikhara (dome) with proportions and weight consistent to all four. The main Sikhara sits on the hub of the four wings. History reveals that the chamber within the main Sikhara once housed a Buddha statue, but this had been destroyed during the Portuguese occupation. This structure has been named the ‘Vijayothpaya’ or ‘Vijayantha Prasada’ after the mythical palace of Deity Indra.

Adjoining the shrine is a Vishnu Devale. The island’s historic chronicle, the Mahavamsa relates that this deity was selected as the guardian of the land and Buddhism within its borders at the time of the Buddha’s passing away. Thus he is looked upon with special reverence among people of this country.

There are two more buildings on the site, the Digge and Bera Maduwa (for drummers to perform their thevaya at various times during the day when offerings are made), both built of stone and clay with lime and sand plaster. The traditional Sandakadapahana or Moonstone lies at the entrance. These buildings are full of remarkable stone carvings depicting drummers, dancers, raban players, wrestlers and flautists, while designs of Lotus petals make up the artistic borders.

Another feature is the array of dwarf figures or Vaman Rupa in different positions carved on the rock surface. Furthermore, make sure to look out for the three sided twin pillars of the Mandapaya. These pillars are so unique that the only other place they are found is in Yapahuwa.

It is very evident that the Gadaladeniya Raja Maha Viharaya reflects a strong Pandyan and Vijaynagar influence in terms of architectural and artistic design, making it a unique site to visit.

Entrance of Gadaladeniya
Entrance of Gadaladeniya
Front View
Front View
Inside the Shrine Room
Inside the Shrine Room
Walking towards the Temple
Walking towards the Temple
In front of the Temple
In front of the Temple
Entering the Shrine Room
Entering the Shrine Room
In front of the Temple
In front of the Temple
Team Members
Team Members
Entering the Shrine Room
Entering the Shrine Room
Entrance of Gadaladeniya
Entrance of Gadaladeniya

MANIQUE GUNARATNE
Vice President – Sri Lanka Foundation for Rehabilitation of the Disabled

ENHANCING CREATIVITY OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES

Travel enhances creativity for persons with disabilities.  It is important to organize tours focused on finding inspiration. travel can be used as a stimulus to become inspired, turning the new ideas experienced during traveling into sources of inspiration when creating new projects.

Ms. Manique Gunaratne created the opportunity to group of persons with disabilities to visit Arugam bay Beach in November 2022.

Arugam Bay known locally as “Arugam Kudah”, is situated on the Indian Ocean in the dry zone of Sri Lanka’s southeast coast, and a historic settlement of the ancient Batticaloa Territory (Mattakallappu Desam). The bay is located 117 kilometres (south of Batticaloa, 320 kilometres (due east of Colombo. While traditionally fishing has dominated the local economy, tourism has grown rapidly in the area in recent years. Tourism in Arugam Bay is dominated by surf tourism, thanks to several quality breaks in the area, however tourists are also attracted by the local beaches, lagoons, historic temples and the nearby Kumana National Park.

Beach View
Beach View
Walking on the Beach
Walking on the Beach
Group Photograph
Group Photograph
Manique at the Beach
Manique at the Beach
Group Photograph
Group Photograph
Manique with friends
Manique with friends
Manique with friends
Manique with friends
Manique at the Beach
Manique at the Beach
Group Photograph
Group Photograph
Walking towards the beach
Walking towards the beach
Manique at the Beach
Manique at the Beach
The view of the beach
The view of the beach
Walking towards the beach
Walking towards the beach
 Beach View Hotel
Beach View Hotel
Group Photograph
Group Photograph
The view of the Beach
The view of the Beach

MANIQUE GUNARATNE
Executive Committee Member – Asia Pacific Women with Disability United

MAKING PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES SOCIABLE

Traveling provides you with memories and knowledge that can be used whenever you must defend your position, make your case, or deliver a presentation in front of your boss or clients.

Traveling makes you more sociable and social. It teaches you to start a conversation and is a good resource for over coming shyness.

Manique Gunaratne created the opportunity for a group of persons with diverse disabilities to have an ice cream at “Rio Ice Cream” in Jaffna in April 2022.

Group Photograph
Group Photograph
Manique and Iresha (Sign-language Interpreter)
Manique and Iresha (Sign-language Interpreter)
Manique with project members
Manique with project members
Selfie at the table
Selfie at the table
Ice cream at RIO
Ice cream at RIO
Manique with the girls
Manique with the girls
Manique inside RIO
Manique inside RIO
Group Photograph
Group Photograph

MANIQUE GUNARATNE
Country Representative – World Disability and Rehabilitation Professionals’ Association (WDRPA)