1. When was the Kandy Garrison Cemetery established and what is its significance in Sri Lankan history?
The Kandy Garrison Cemetery was established in 1817 during British colonial rule and it holds the graves of soldiers who died serving the British Empire in Sri Lanka. Its significance lies in its role as a remembrance of colonial history and as a symbol of the impact of British imperialism in Sri Lanka.
2. Can you tell us about the architecture and design of the Kandy Garrison Cemetery?
Yes, the Kandy Garrison Cemetery is a historical cemetery located in Kandy, Sri Lanka. It was established in 1817 for the burial of British and Australian soldiers who died during their service in various wars, including the First and Second World Wars.
The architecture of the cemetery reflects that of traditional English cemeteries, with rows of headstones and monuments made of granite or marble. The layout is symmetrical and orderly, with carefully maintained paths and gardens.
One notable feature of the cemetery is the Cenotaph erected in memory of those who lost their lives in World War I. It is a white marble structure with intricate carvings and an eternal flame at its center.
In terms of design, the Kandy Garrison Cemetery also includes several memorial stones dedicated to individual soldiers or groups who perished in different battles. These stones often include poetic inscriptions and symbols representing their military service or regiment.
Overall, the architectural style and design of the Kandy Garrison Cemetery pays tribute to the soldiers buried there, preserving their memory for generations to come.
3. How many graves are located within the premises of Kandy Garrison Cemetery?
There are 197 graves located within the premises of Kandy Garrison Cemetery.
4. What type of maintenance and preservation efforts have been undertaken to keep the cemetery in good condition?
Various maintenance and preservation efforts have been undertaken to keep the cemetery in good condition, including regular cleaning and upkeep of the grounds, repairing or replacing damaged headstones, and implementing measures to prevent erosion or damage from natural elements. Additionally, many cemeteries have dedicated staff or volunteer groups who work to maintain the cemetery and its historical significance. Efforts may also include fundraising for restoration projects and implementing rules and regulations for respectful visitation to preserve the integrity of the site.
5. Are there any specific rules or regulations for visitors to abide by while visiting the Kandy Garrison Cemetery?
Yes, visitors are required to follow certain rules and regulations while visiting the Kandy Garrison Cemetery. These include respecting the sanctity of the cemetery, not littering or vandalizing the graves, refraining from loud noises and music, and obtaining prior permission from authorities for photography or filming. Visitors are also expected to dress modestly and show reverence while inside the cemetery premises. Failure to comply with these rules may result in removal from the site.
6. Can you share any interesting stories or anecdotes associated with any of the graves at the cemetery?
Yes, one interesting story comes to mind about a grave at the cemetery. There is a section dedicated to veterans, and on one particular gravestone, there was an old photograph of the deceased soldier in his military uniform. It turned out that the photo was actually taken during a pivotal moment in history – it captured the soldier’s unit planting the American flag during World War II on one of the beaches of Normandy. The soldier had survived the war and returned home to marry his sweetheart, but sadly passed away a few years later from an illness. Seeing that tangible connection to such a significant moment in history was truly moving and gave even more meaning to visiting that section of the cemetery.
7. Who were some notable figures buried at the Kandy Garrison Cemetery and what role did they play in Sri Lankan history?
Some notable figures buried at the Kandy Garrison Cemetery include:
1. Sir John D’Oyly – an East India Company officer who became the first British Agent to the Kandyan Kingdom in 1802.
2. George Turnour – a British civil servant who is known for his translation of the Mahavamsa, a chronicle of Sri Lankan history.
3. Robert Brownrigg – Governor of Ceylon (Sri Lanka) from 1812 to 1820, who played a key role in defeating rebellions against British rule.
4. Edward Barnes – British Army General who served as Commander-in-Chief of Ceylon from 1819 to 1825.
5. William Henry Gregory – Governor of Ceylon from 1872 to 1877, who introduced various reforms such as expanding education and promoting agriculture.
6. Sir Arthur Hamilton-Gordon – Governor of Ceylon from 1883 to 1890, known for his efforts in improving social conditions and implementing large-scale irrigation projects.
7. Charles Henry de Soysa – a prominent Sri Lankan businessman and philanthropist known for his contributions towards modernizing Colombo and developing Buddhist institutions.
These individuals played significant roles in shaping Sri Lankan history during the colonial era and are remembered through their burial at the Kandy Garrison Cemetery, which serves as a symbol of the impact of British rule on the island nation.
8. Is there a specific tour or guide available for visitors who want to explore the cemetery in more depth?
Yes, many cemeteries offer guided tours or have informative maps available for visitors who want to learn more about the history and notable individuals buried there. It would be best to check with the cemetery directly for more information on their specific tour options.
9. Are there any rituals or ceremonies that take place at the Kandy Garrison Cemetery, especially during special occasions or anniversaries?
Yes, there are several rituals and ceremonies that take place at the Kandy Garrison Cemetery. Some of these include annual or monthly remembrance services for fallen soldiers, wreath-laying ceremonies on important national holidays such as Remembrance Day, and special memorial events to honor specific groups or individuals who have been buried at the cemetery. Additionally, during Buddhist holidays such as Vesak or Poya, offerings and prayers may be conducted at the Buddhist shrine located within the cemetery grounds.
10.Can you tell us about any famous or unique tombstones or monuments found at the cemetery?
Yes, I can tell you about a few famous tombstones or monuments found at cemeteries. One of the most famous ones is the Taj Mahal in India, which serves as the tomb for the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan’s wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Another well-known monument is the Terracotta Army in China, which features thousands of clay sculptures made to honor emperor Qin Shi Huang. In the United States, some notable tombstones include the grave of President John F. Kennedy and his eternal flame at Arlington National Cemetery and Elvis Presley’s Graceland mausoleum and memorial garden in Tennessee. There are also unique monuments such as the Angel of Grief statue in Rome and the eerie Hand of Mystery monument in St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 in New Orleans, Louisiana.
11.How does the location of Kandy Garrison Cemetery reflect its significance in Sri Lankan history and culture?
The location of Kandy Garrison Cemetery is a significant site in Sri Lankan history and culture because it serves as a final resting place for British soldiers who fought and died during the colonial period in Sri Lanka. The cemetery is located next to the Kandy Lake, which was formerly known as “Kiri Muhuda” or the Sea of Milk, and is considered a sacred site in Buddhist tradition. This juxtaposition of the cemetery and sacred site reflects the cultural and historical impact of British colonization on Sri Lanka, as well as the ongoing blending of different cultures in the country. Additionally, many important figures from Sri Lankan history are buried at Kandy Garrison Cemetery, further emphasizing its significance as a symbol of national identity and remembrance.
12.Has there been any controversy surrounding the cemetery, particularly regarding its maintenance and preservation efforts?
Yes, there have been several controversies surrounding the cemetery, including concerns over litter and vandalism, disputes over burial rights and ownership of plots, and debates over funding for maintenance and preservation efforts. In recent years, there has also been criticism of the lack of diversity in representation within the cemetery’s governing bodies and the treatment of historical gravesites.
13.What role did British colonial rulers play in establishing and maintaining Kandy Garrison Cemetery?
The British colonial rulers were responsible for establishing and maintaining Kandy Garrison Cemetery as it was used to bury soldiers who died during the British colonial rule in Sri Lanka. They oversaw the construction of the cemetery and ensured that it was properly maintained, providing a final resting place for their soldiers. Additionally, they also played a role in selecting and honoring those buried at the cemetery, making it a significant site in British military history.
14.How can visitors access Kandy Garrison Cemetery, both from within Sri Lanka and from other countries?
Visitors can access Kandy Garrison Cemetery by traveling to Sri Lanka and then making their way to the city of Kandy. From there, they can take a taxi or hire a private car to reach the cemetery. Alternatively, visitors can also book organized tours that include a stop at the cemetery. For those coming from other countries, they will need to first travel by air or sea to Sri Lanka before following the same transportation methods as mentioned above. Some tour companies may also offer package deals that include international flights and transportation within Sri Lanka for convenience.
15.Are there any nearby attractions or landmarks that visitors can also visit while touring Kandy Garrison Cemetery?
Yes, there are several nearby attractions and landmarks that visitors can visit while touring Kandy Garrison Cemetery. Some popular options include the Temple of the Tooth, the Royal Palace and National Museum, and the Udawattakele Forest Reserve. Additionally, visitors can also explore the scenic Kandy Lake or take a stroll through the bustling streets of Kandy to experience the local culture and cuisine.
16.What steps have been taken to promote awareness about Sri Lankan history through sites like Kandy Garrison Cemetery?
To promote awareness about Sri Lankan history through sites like Kandy Garrison Cemetery, several steps have been taken. These include:
1. Restoration and preservation efforts: The first step was to focus on restoring and preserving the historical sites, such as the Kandy Garrison Cemetery. This involved cleaning, repairing and maintaining the cemetery grounds and tombstones.
2. Education programs: Educational programs have been implemented to educate people, especially students, about the importance and significance of these historical sites in Sri Lankan history. These programs involve guided tours and interactive activities to engage visitors.
3. Signages and information boards: Informational signages and boards have been placed around the Kandy Garrison Cemetery to provide visitors with a brief overview of its history, significance and notable individuals buried there.
4. Online presence: The Kandy Garrison Cemetery now has a strong online presence through social media platforms and websites. This allows for a wider reach and promotion of the site’s historical importance.
5. Collaborations with schools and universities: Collaborations with schools and universities have been made to incorporate visits to historical sites like Kandy Garrison Cemetery as part of their curriculum or field trips.
6. Cultural events: Various cultural events such as exhibitions, lectures, film screenings, and performances are organized at the cemetery to attract more visitors and raise awareness about its historical significance.
7. Collaboration with tour operators: Collaborations with tour operators have also been made to include Kandy Garrison Cemetery as part of their tour packages, thus increasing its exposure to tourists.
8. Support from local authorities: Local authorities play a crucial role in promoting awareness about Sri Lankan history through sites like Kandy Garrison Cemetery by providing resources for restoration efforts and promoting tourism in the area.
Overall, these steps aim to increase public interest in Sri Lankan history, preserve important sites like the Kandy Garrison Cemetery, and educate future generations about their country’s rich cultural heritage.
17.Are there any ongoing restoration projects happening at the cemetery, and how can interested individuals contribute towards them?
Yes, there are ongoing restoration projects happening at many cemeteries around the world. Interested individuals can contribute by volunteering their time and effort to assist with physical tasks such as cleaning headstones, repairing fences, or conducting research on historical gravesites. They can also make donations to organizations or groups dedicated to restoring cemeteries, or participate in fundraisers and events that support restoration efforts. Additionally, interested individuals can spread awareness about the importance of preserving cemeteries and encourage others to get involved in restoration projects.
18.How has cultural tourism played a role in preserving sites like Kandy Garrison Cemetery?
Cultural tourism has played a crucial role in preserving sites like Kandy Garrison Cemetery through fostering appreciation and interest in these cultural landmarks. By attracting visitors to these sites, tourism promotes the maintenance and conservation efforts of these historic sites. Additionally, the revenue generated from cultural tourism can be directed towards preservation projects and rehabilitation of these sites. By creating a sustainable source of income, cultural tourism also ensures that future generations will continue to value and protect these important places.
19.What makes Kandy Garrison Cemetery a must-visit destination for history buffs and cultural enthusiasts?
Kandy Garrison Cemetery is a must-visit destination for history buffs and cultural enthusiasts due to its significance as a resting place for British colonial soldiers and officials. The cemetery dates back to the 19th century and showcases a unique blend of British and Sri Lankan architecture, as well as beautiful statues and monuments that offer insight into the cultural diversity of the region during the colonial era. Additionally, the cemetery holds historical value as it witnessed key moments in Sri Lanka’s colonial history, making it a highly educational and enlightening experience for visitors interested in learning about the country’s past.
20.What message would you like to convey to visitors about the significance and importance of preserving historical landmarks like Kandy Garrison Cemetery in Sri Lanka?
The message I would like to convey is the importance of preserving historical landmarks like Kandy Garrison Cemetery in Sri Lanka. These sites hold immense cultural, historical, and architectural value, and they serve as a valuable link to our past. By preserving them, we not only honor the memory of those who have come before us but also ensure that future generations have the opportunity to learn from and appreciate our rich heritage. Additionally, these landmarks contribute to the local economy through tourism and serve as a source of community pride and identity. Therefore, it is crucial to recognize their significance and take responsibility for their preservation for the sake of our collective history and cultural legacy.