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| Sunday, 26 December 2004 |
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Freedom A gigantic monument sits in the heart of Matara city, attracting many an interested and curious folk. People were terror- stricken during the time of the southern insurgency.Fear lurked in every nook and corner, making mothers terribly worried about their children.Having lost their off-spring during the era of terrorism in Sri Lanka, many mothers still weep for their loved ones whom they lost during this time.
During the southern insurgency, people of the south were terror-stricken. Gun shots would incessantly pierce the silence of silent nights. Nilvala Harasara celebrations were specially organised by the People of Matara, to commemorate President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga's decade in office and the freedom from fear that she has ensured for everyone. The celebrations were held during one whole week and the building of the monument was among one of the three major events in the Nilvala Harasara agenda.
The monument is the latest addition to the few gigantic monuments in Sri Lanka. It symbolises peace and freedom. "It actually depicts the freedom that our children now have to move around in society without any fear" says Sarath. The monument is built opposite the Matara main bus stand and stands out tall and strong, giving out a vital message. |
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"This monument is simply a symbol of freedom. It's for all mothers
and mothers-to- be, symbolising that the future generation can step into a
fear-free society," says Sarath Kumarasiri, the sculptor speaking
about the 20 foot tall monument.
It was the brainchild of Minister Mangala Samaraweera, Minister of
Media, Ports and Aviation and the idea was further developed by Sarath, to
incorporate the expression of freedom. Having sculpted the monument in a
short space of 15 days, he says, it is the only monument in Sri Lanka that
depicts a theme. "Unlike other countries, we don't have monuments in
Sri Lanka that symbolises an idea, we always tend to sculpt
individuals".
