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Sunday, 28 December 2003 |
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The Wickremaarachchi Estate : Key to the philosophy of Ayurveda
The tranquility and charm of the Wickremaarachchi estate in Yakkala, Gampaha was a key to the whole philosophy of the Ayurvedic system of medicine. Pundit Dr. G P. Wickremaarachchi, alas, no longer in our midst, is still a household name in Gampaha district and even further afield. His son Vinayalankara Wickremaarachchi is carrying on the good work by serving the people of the district through his Ayurvedic preparations which they have absolute faith in.
In answer to this writer's question, he said that Ayurveda is in great demand in the country and has no doubt that its popularity will not wane. There is a great demand for Ayurvedic hair oil, Dr. Wickremaarachchi said. He stressed that Ayurveda was very popular among Southern people, extending to Kataragama. Dr. Wickremaarachchi said that 50 per cent of raw materials for the Ayurvedic industry are imported from India.
Every product is manufactured at his home and, it is indeed a 'treatment' for body and spirit to wander through the winding paths of the backgarden and into the old-fashioned kitchen buildings where men and women work diligently, preparing the products by hand, some young women making the traditional 'gulis' by hand, turning it into an almost meditative process, while others get about their various duties with equal diligency. It is easy to see how the natural process of production of these medications are so meditatively done that they may actually induce meditative states in users which facilitate the healing process. Mrs. Wickremaarachchi, meanwhile, refreshed us with the most delicious lovi drink made by her from fruits from her garden. The drink was ruby-pink in colour and looked good enough to wean away anyone addicted to alcoholic drinks for good. Her recipe remains a secret! The Wickremaarachchi's have two daughters - both Western - qualified medical practitioners - who have an increasing interest in Ayurveda. One son-in-law, who is also a Western-qualified doctor, is also convinced of the efficacy of the Ayurvedic system. - KRR |
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