Rajah Rutnam (1934 – 2009) Ceylonese Pioneer First Ceylonese Migrant to the United States under the Mc Carrann Act of 1952
Rajah Rutnam (1934 – 2009) Ceylonese Pioneer First Ceylonese Migrant to the United States under the Mc Carrann Act of 1952
“I loved Ceylon, but I was ‘in love’ with the United States.”
“………and I became an American” by Staff Sergeant Rajah Rutnam USMC
______________________________
In the coolness of a fresh and bright September morning in 1954, from my hotel in downtown, Los Angeles, California,
I walked to City Hall. As my anxious feet carried me through its portals I could almost hear the throb of my exuberant
heart. A rare sensation, so obvious that even the elevator boy, sensing it, smiled mirthfully as he greeted me.
I stepped out on the third floor to discover that I was not alone. There were about a hundred of us, representing many nations. With those who belonged to the same alphabetical category as mine, I took my place at the end of a long line. From this position I gazed into a sea of glowing faces, and could feel exuding from them an excitement kin to mine. There were some who endeavored to appear nonchalant, while others were anxious to share their stories with everyone.
We had been standing for quite awhile, and in my impatience I was getting rather restless. When the clerk waved us into a court room, I sighed with relief as I seated myself upon the bench to which I had been directed. I was bent over reading some pamphlets when I heard the rap of a gavel announce His Honor the Judge. The court arose in one accord. Ordinarily he might not have been considered a very impressive person, but on this day his presence was remarkably commanding. The court was seated and he began to speak. His voice projected in a mild manner, warm and friendly, commanding our fullest attention. In strange unity we listened as he spoke of the imperativeness of our understanding the change in ourselves. His clear voice relayed the full significance of his words.
The austere environment of that courtroom was the stage for a great drama. The peoples of many nations, colors and religions, sensing a kindred feeling of belonging, discarded the dark cloak of prejudice to bring into vogue the handclasp of friendship. A common perk representative of the unity that makes the United States. Together “we”, the peoples of the old worlds, rose to face the colors of the new. With the right hand raised, in the roar of a hundred voices, a hundred hearts pledged their allegiance to the flag of the United States and to what it represented.
In the calm that followed the judge looked on us gravely. “Congratulations”, he said, “You are now citizens of the United States. With new privileges you have new responsibilities. Bear them well, for in your hands you hold the freedom and the future of America. Your country”. My country America! an ‘ALIEN’ walked into a courtroom and an ‘AMERICAN’ walked out. Bursting with the sense of pride and joy which is a part of becoming an American, I stepped out into the streets of America, an American among Americans.
It seemed it was all a dream. But then, that was how it all began. A dream that no fourteen year old boy had the right to dream. But he did. The dream that was impossible had culminated in reality. Where did it begin?
In the Indian Ocean, reposing like a teardrop, off the south point of India, lies the emerald island of Ceylon. On this former British colony, in the capital city of Colombo, I was born. Reclining on her luxuriant beaches at Mount Lavinia and Negombo, often looking far beyond the horizon, I dreamed a million dreams. Dreams of youth, of adventure, of romance. I dreamed of the United States. I learned to love her and her people.
The passage of time added fuel to the fire of my very imaginative mind, and I saw an American that no one else could see. It was a very strange “romance”. I loved a country I had never seen, except in the movies, in the books I read, and in the people I met. I studied her great constitution, and believed in her ideals. Living within myself I discovered the glamor of Hollywood, the excitement of Broadway and New York and the adventure of a nation of many peoples. I loved Ceylon, but I was ‘in love’ with the United States.
In 1949, I was a resident student at St. Thomas’ College in Gurutalawa, a beautiful estate, on which I spent the exciting years of youth. There were times, when my friends and I, with the strategy of generals, invaded the school orchards, evading the caretaker, and braving Principal Hayman’s heavy cane. A campus cloaked in the blanket of natural beauty, where flowers blossomed all year round, and birds of variety sought sanctuary with the protection saint of the school chapel, St. Francis of Assisi. Here in an environment of nature’s luxuries I made a decision that affected my entire life. I decided that I would become an American.
The seeming impossibility of my ambition, made me the object of mild ridicule among the professors and students. I was subjected to the jocular criticisms of my friends and relatives. “Why don’t you give up this crazy notion?”, some would say, “you will only be disappointed”. “get yourself into reality”, said the Principal, “this obsession is a sign of immaturity”.
They might have all been right. I probably was immature, but I could not cast out my dream. With stubborn perseverance I held on. It might not have happened, if I had once said to myself that it was impossible. I prayed. In the afternoons when no one was watching, I would sneak into the chapel to say a prayer for a chance to make this dream come true. But dreams and prayers are not enough.
There was need for action, and I did not know how to begin. My mind wandered in uncertainty, till it occurred to me that my question would be well answered by the first gentleman of the United States. In a letter to the President I wrote of my ambitions, and asked him if I could become a citizen of the United States.
My letter was intercepted, presumably by the State Department, and was referred to the American Embassy in Ceylon for reply. In answer to my query the embassy stated that I had first to establish permanent residence in the U. S. to become eligible for naturalization. In turn I requested pertinent information. I was told that I had to be legally admitted to the U. S. on an immigrant’s visa. How? The Embassy regretfully informed me that at that time Ceylon had no quota for immigration to the U.S. , and to my great consternation I discovered that I could not become an American.
In spite of everything my thoughts were not restrained. I stlll believed that I would become an American. This naturally created new problems. My folks were not quite reconciled to the idea of my planning to become an American. My father’s plans for me did not include my migration to the U. S. When he questioned me, I told him of my correspondence with the American Embassy, and of the latest developments concerning a U. S. bill of law which would, if passed by Congress, make me eligible for U. S. citizenship.
The slow fuse had reached a point of detonation. My father exploded in a torrent of angry words. “Do you realize what you are doing?”, he asked, “you are selling your birthright. Many people want to make Ceylon their home, and you want to throw away your heritage for something you know absolutely nothing about”. His own sense of patriotism was great, but he could not understand why I wanted to go to the United States. For this venture he told me in no uncertain words that I could expect no help from him.
During this time, an immigration bill was under fire in the U.S., and my ‘domestic relations’ had not improved. I was working at my father’s export and import business as a junior executive, who was so junior that he was a sort of glorified errand boy. In an air of strained relationships, my resentment of this status created considerable tension at home. I was under 21 years of age and the fact that I needed my father’s consent before I could be issued a passport worried me.
All my schemes to come to the U.S. ended in failure. I had even become a candidate for a Government sponsored scholarship to the U. S. I was interviewed and eliminated from candidature, because I was too young and too inexperienced. When I was ready to throw in the proverbial ‘towel’ , I read a report of the new U.S. immigration bill that had been passed in Congress, which authorized a quota for Ceylon of 100 immigrants each year. I rushed to the American Embassy and submitted my application for a visa. I was told that mine was the first request received, and that in all probability, I would be the first Ceylonese to be legally admitted to the United States for citizenship. I felt like a pioneer, and very proud of myself.
Though the wheels of destiny were in motion, I still had to cover some rough terrain. Not having a sponsor in the U.S., I was required to have with me a substantial sum of money to defray expenses. The knowledge of my father’s sentiments kept me from asking him or my mother for any financial aid. In my hour of need I spoke to my uncles. There were some who could not bear to part with a penny, while others were quite generous. Soon I had added to my savings a small fortune sufficient to carry me through.
I had booked passage on the SS “Orion”. All arrangements had been made, except for a letter from my father authorizing the immigration authorities to issue my passport. I realized that I had a duty to perform, before I ventured any further. I was very much to blame for the animosity created at home. My apology was accepted in good grace, and my father embraced me as the prodigal returned. He knew now how serious I was about going to the United States, and he had no further objections. On the eve of my departure he arranged a gala party. There were as many as two hundred guests. My friends, Americans and local, advised me and wished me well. The party was a tremendous success, and was enjoyed by all.
At dawn the party ended. The guests went their separate ways. We were rather tired, but there was much to do. My relatives and friends helped me to load the trunks in the cars. We rested for awhile, and then in a convoy of cars rushed to the Colombo Harbor. My folks decided to say ‘Goodbye’ at the pier. I embraced them all, and swallowed hard as I saw the tears trickle down their cheeks. The launch put distance between us as it took me to the ship.
The shadows of the evening were about us. The lights of the harbor came on. Soon the loudspeaker sounded ‘Visitors
ashore’, and the friends who came to the ship bade me ‘Goodbye’. The Orion pulled away into the waters of the Indian Ocean, and the bright lights of the port of Colombo faded into memory.
As the “Orion” forged her way through the ocean, I left behind me the sweet memories of delightful ports of call, Aden, Naples, Marseilles and many others. In England I stayed briefly, and sailed on the RMS “Queen Mary” for New York. On this great liner I met many others, who like me, were migrating to the United States. Standing on the deck together, we sighted the famous skyline of New York. The great lady of Liberty guided us with her torch. It was my first glimpse of the real thing. I was in the United States, where the magnificent structures of man challenged the skies, and the nation itself continued in a constant bustle of activity, ever progressing. Here in New York, city of giants, I set my foot upon the land that I would call – home.
My cousin, an itinerant poet, met me, and we rode in a taxi through the streets of a cold, grey New York. Though the air was musty, the breath of the United States was grand. I spent two months in New York touring the largest city in the world. I saw the elegant symmetry of the Empire State Building soaring a mile into the sky. I took in the refinement of Long Island, the jazz of Harlem, and the grime of the Bowery where one could still discern beneath the dirt the remains of a past gay era.
Away from the hustle and bustle of New York, the plane took me to sunny California. To Los Angeles, a romantic city of romantic people. Here too I languished touring the city and her suburbs. I was in glamorous Hollywood where fantasy had become a reality, and reality in turn had become fantasy.
I was finding great joy in my idleness, when it suddenly occurred to me that my finances were rather low. Though the thought was appalling, I had to find a job. The idea of becoming a travelling salesman was appealing and I was soon selling Bibles for a firm in Texas. In a few days I discovered that even the Bible selling business is quite a racket. Unfortunately I was not a very good operator, and had sold only one Bible in the two weeks I had spent at this job. I was discouraged, and so I gave it up.
One day the blue uniform of a U.S. Marine confronted me with my responnsibility to the country that I had adopted. To preserve this way of life a war was being fought in Korea. I had no immediate plans, and only $50.00 in the bank, so I marched through the open doors of a recruiting office into a career as a United States Marine.
With other Americans I endured the gruelling training at boot camp, where I was primarily trained for the defense of the United States. Though I was not placed in a position I had wanted, I was assigned to a rather important phase of Marine combat. I was a supply clerk and an integral part in the nation’s defense. I have pride in my work, knowibg that in a little way I am giving something to the country of my adoption. I have been promoted to the rank of Staff Sergeant, and with the help of the Marine Corps, become a citizen of the United States of America.
The six years I have spent with the Marine Corps have not all been easy years, but they certainly have been good years. I have learned much. The dreams of youth are not all easily forgotten. The dream worthwhile remains. The United States was such a dream, and I became an American.
Note from Rajah’s brother Jayam Rutnam of Los Angeles, Ca.
My eldest brother, Rajah, saw his dream come true when he became an American citizen. He spent ten years in the United States Marine Corps, during which time he was promoted to the rank of Staff Sergeant and later retired with an Honorable Discharge. After his military service, he became an executive with a large steamship company in Long Beach.
Rajah married Patsy Bolling, and together they had two children, Vanessa and Dennis André. Upon retiring, he fulfilled another lifelong dream by returning to Ceylon (now Sri Lanka), where he represented a major garment exporter. He eventually returned to the United States and passed away in 2009 at the age of 75.
Rajah sponsored all his brothers and sisters to come to the United States. He will be remembered as a pioneer, being the first Ceylonese to migrate to the United States under the McCarran Act of 1952.
Good News From Jayam November 15, 2025 Pls Scroll Down 35 items
Good News From Jayam November 15, 2025 Pls Scroll Down 35 items
Thanksgiving Day – November 27th
John Amirthiah’s “J Med Supply” Honored at Inc. 5000 Gala in Phoenix as one of America’s fastest growing companies
At a recent black-tie gala and cocktail reception held in Phoenix, AZ. J Med Supply was officially honored as one of the companies named to the prestigious Inc. 5000 list—a recognition of the fastest-growing private businesses in the United States. J Med CEO, John Amirthah, accepted the award on behalf of the company, joined by members of the J Med team who have been instrumental in this journey. The event brought together a vibrant network of entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders, offering a powerful reminder of the impact that purpose-driven growth can achieve.
In Loving Memory Indrani (Rutnam) Wye
Passed away on June 6th, 2025 “I’ll forever cherish the memories we made and the love we shared” Birthday remembrances on November 15th
Aruni Boteju’s 4th Annual Ceylon International Film Festival (CEYIFF) in Santa Barbara, Ca. (Photos by Moran Moran
Mover and shaker, Aruni Boteju Founder and Chairman of CEYIFF with sister Ruwani.
President Aruna Krishantha of the Sri Lanka America Association of Southern California presented “a token of appreciation” to Aruni Boteju, Founder of the Ceylon International Film Festival (CEYIFF), in recognition of her hard work and dedication. This honor stands as a testament to how deeply her efforts have impacted and inspired the community.
CEYIFF Chairman Aruni Boteju speaks.
Sri Lankan movie producer/director Sumedha Jayasena.
TSt Joseph Hospital in Negombo For Children and Adults
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Tourism arrivals to Sri Lanka cross 1.9 million strong start to November boosts optimism for record year
Sri Lanka’s tourism industry has crossed the 1.9 million visitor milestone so far in 2025, with over 32,000 tourists arriving in the first five days of November, signalling a robust lead-up to the winter travel season and renewed confidence in the island’s recovery as a premier destination.
During the corresponding period in 2024, the country had welcomed 1.65 million visitors. The average daily arrivals in the first days of November stood at 6,563, up from 6,124 in the same period in 2024.
If you are visiting Sri Lanka during the Christmas Season, you must not miss the New Year’s Eve Dinner Dance at the Colombo Hilton (organized by Upul Dharmadasa)
Niro World Cruises www.niroworldcruises.com (Please click on arrow)
Empowering Down South and the Central Highlands
Sri Lanka’s digital economy development needs to enter the next stage to focus on bringing fintech services to the underdeveloped Down South coastal belt and the Central Highlands region of Ella. The two destinations welcome numerous international tourists monthly but their economies still operate mainly on cash transactions which results in operational problems and money loss and unnecessary foreign currency depletion. The local economy of Mirissa to Ella operates through small cafes and homestays and surf schools and transport services. Tourists from all over the world visit these microbusinesses to experience genuine local culture but most of them function without accepting digital payments.
Sri Lankan delegation strengthens trade and sector partnerships on Canada mission
A delegation of Sri Lankan businesses, is in Canada, exploring opportunities in investment and partnerships in education, agriculture, information technology and tourism.
The delegation is led by, Sri Lanka–Canada Business Council of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce President M.H.K.M. Hameez. Prior to departing, members met with Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Minister Sunil Handunnetti, who expressed his support for the mission acknowledging it as part of a broader effort to connect Sri Lankan enterprises with international partners and bring home new opportunities for growth.
Business Portraits by Prishan Pandithage
Dr Yasantha Rajakarunayake interviewed by Sajee Pe on FINN TV in Los Angeles
Jayam’s Choice The Beach Boys “Good Vibrations” (Please click on arrow)
Sri Lankan sprinter Fathima Shafiya Yamick Returns South Asian Athletic Championship in India
Sri Lankan sprinter Fathima Shafiya Yamick received a grand welcome in her hometown in Kandy following her historic performance at the 2025 South Asian Athletics Championship in Ranchi, India. Yamick, 26, made history by winning gold in the women’s 100m, 200m, and 4x100m relay events, setting new championship records in all three. She clocked 11.53 seconds in the 100m, 23.58 seconds in the 200m, and anchored the relay team to a 44.70-second finish—marking one of the most outstanding individual performances by a Sri Lankan athlete at the regional meet.
Mangala Jayakody and family visited friends Arosha and Isu in Santa Barbara, Ca.
Join the other Sri Lankan Expatriates Worldwide to ring in the New Year 2026
Join the other Sri Lankan Expatriates Worldwide to ring in the New Year 2026 Join the other Sri Lankan Expatriates Worldwide to ring in the New Year 2026
I WANT YOU AT HILTON COLOMBO ON THE 31ST DECEMBER FOR THE DINNER DANCE
ORGANIZED BY UPUL DHARMADASA CHAIRMAN OF UD PRODUCTIONS & OWNER OF UPUL’S GROUP OF COMPANIES
MUSIC. MEMORIES. MAGIC WITH
GYPSIES | MYSTY
FALAN ANDREA
Venue – HILTON COLOMBO GRAND BALLROOM
Time – 7.30PM
LIMITED AVAILABILITY
CONTACT US
+1 626 761 4299
+94 77 726 3830 (SL)
+1 626 967 0960
Going Back to Sri Lanka? Ship your Household Goods in a Shipping Container ! From anywhere in the United States We have the lowest prices in town!
Going Back to Sri Lanka? Ship your Household Goods in a Shipping Container ! From anywhere in the United States We have the lowest prices in town!
Good News From Jayam November 1, 2025 Pls Scroll Down 35 items
Good News From Jayam November 1, 2025 Pls Scroll Down 35 items
Happy Diwali 2025
Upul Dharmadasa Productions Presents High Five to 2026 at the Hilton Colombo New Years Eve – Dinner Dance
Romanian, Andre Bidi Pianist Extraordinaire on the “Island Princess” – visited friends Fay and Terry Herft – Gina and Jayam in Palos Verdes, Ca.
Thusitha and Dr Lakshman Makandura Celebrated their 40th Wedding Anniversary in Arcadia, Ca. (Photos by Moran Moran)
Dr Lakshman Makandura his wife Thusitha and daughter Sarah
Dilip Jayasekara and his son Randil
Dr Makandura, Aeshea Jayasinghe, Dilip Jayasekara and Dr Walter Jayasinghe
Dr Sarath and Vajira Gunapala, Venerable Aparekke Punyasiri and Denzil Ratnasoma
Venerable Piyananda, Venerable Kolitha, Venerable Siriniwasa
Aloma Ratnasoma, Anoma Halgama and friends
Denzil Ratnasoma, Ranjanie and Malraj de Silva
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Buddhist Action To Feed the Hungry
(Please click on link www.buddhistglobalrelief.org
At the Thomian Old Boys Dance Hilton – Glendale, Ca.
George Rutnam, Tony Marino and George Wed
With Dr Ahamed Jiffry
Lankan Realtor Nilmini Senanayake of Denver, Colorado honored in the U.S.
Nilmini Senanayake Hecox, a Sri Lankan-born real estate professional based in Denver, Colorado, has been recognized with the prestigious 2025 RealTrends Verified + The Thousand award, placing her among the top 1.5% of real estate professionals in the United States based on closed sales and transaction volume.
USA Sri Lanka Businessman Sunil de Silva had an audience with His Eminence Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith in Colombo, recently
Drishantha and Ishani Wedding Parents of the Groom – Dushantha and Malkanthi Kurera of Eastvale, Ca. at the Pacific Palms Resort, Industry Traditional wedding ceremony by Prasanna Yamasinghe (Photos by Moran Moran)
Jayam’s Choice “The Blue Sapphire Tour” Cliff Richard
Premiere of the Movie Sunny’s Mansion starring Niva Perera at the Dandenong Drum Theatre in Melbourne, Australia
Ramona “Carr” Schneider (74) of Beverly Hills, Ca. Passed Away on October 9th, 2025
Ramona “Carr” Schneider (74) of Beverly Hills, Ca. Passed Away on October 9th, 2025
Ramona Carr Sings “Stardust” (2013) (Please click on arrow)
“It is with profound sadness and broken hearts that we share that God has called our beautiful light, Ramona, to reside alongside her parents Albert Mellican and Olga Bolling Mellican – her light is dimmed but never will be extinguished as her beauty and voice will forever ring brightly in so many hearts around the world including sisters’ Ingrid and Yasmin, her nieces and nephew Shiranee, Jarrod, Shakira, Nile and all their families, Aunt’s Yolanda Morley and Lucy Bagot and families, cousins Deborah Nedrlk, Dilip Tambinayagam, Christine Jayawardene, Mignonne Amerasinghe, Cleone Amerasinghe, Patsy Rutnam, Kenneth Reeves and all their families and numerous close friends worldwide including Turkey, Sri Lanka and New York. She was – is – our hero – a true testament to what survival in the face of adversity looks like.
Rest In Peace our beloved Child of God.”
Celebration of Life will be at a later date.
Good News From Jayam October 15, 2025
Good News From Jayam October 15, 2025
Special Dinner Reception Hosted by US President for World Leaders Attending the 80th Session of the UN General Assembly
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake attended the special dinner reception hosted by US President Donald Trump and the First Lady on the 23rd September at the Lotte New York Palace Hotel, in honor of the heads of state who had arrived in New York to participate in the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly. On this occasion, President Donald Trump extended a very warm welcome to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. Following a cordial exchange, the two leaders also posed together for a photograph.
Sri Lanka – President Addresses United Nations General Debate, 80th Session “Keep up the good work President AKD, It was an excellent speech” (Please click on arrow)
Alston Koch appointed as Commonwealth Union Envoy to Australia and Pacific Region
The Commonwealth Union (CU) has announced the appointment of Alston Koch, internationally recognised artist, award-winning entertainer and global influencer, as its Envoy to Australia and the Pacific Region.Commonwealth Union President, Nirj Deva said: “Alston Koch’s appointment reflects our commitment to engaging visionary leaders who can connect with people, inspire collaboration, and strengthen the Commonwealth Union’s presence globally. His role as Envoy will be vital in extending our outreach in Australia and the Pacific Region.”
“Project Roots”
www.projectrootsglobal.com
Beira Lake opens for sea plane landings
The Government aims to stimulate the tourism industry by enhancing domestic air services, offering support and facilities to companies willing to start new operations to regional airports in Sri Lanka in compliance with all safety regulations,” Transport, Highways, Ports and Civil Aviation Minister Bimal Rathnayake said. He said this while participating in the launch of flight services between Katun- ayake and Colombo using Beira Lake as a water aerodrome.
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Dennis Rutnam celebrated his 79th Birthday at the Studio City Rehab Center in Studio City, Ca.
Dennis celebrated his 79th birthday with family and friends at the Studio City Rehabilitation Center.Varini Wanigatunga, Roger Weerasinghe, George Rutnam, Sonali Tucker, Kshirabdhi Page, Patrick, Jayam, Gina and Gavin Rutnam, Louis and Lewis Tucker. Seated are Dennis and Granville Perera.
Mrs. World 2024 in Sri Lanka
Mrs. Tshego Gaelae of South Africa, the reigning Mrs. World 2024, arrived in Sri Lanka to serve as the head judge of the Mrs. Sri Lanka World 2025 pageant. She was welcomed at the “Gold Route” Special Guest Lounge. Among those present to receive her were Miss Sri Lanka Ishadi Amanda, runner-up at the 2024 Miss World Married Beauty Pageant, National Organizer Chandimal Jayasinghe, and pageant coach Rukmal Senanayake. The Mrs. Sri Lanka World 2025 pageant is scheduled to take place in Colombo from September 30 to October 2.
St. Joseph Hospital Negombo, Sri Lanka Children’s Day was on October 1st, 2025
Sri Lankan Food in Los Angeles! Apey Kade in Tarzana, Best Sri Lankan Restaurant in LA (Please click on arrow)
Jayam’s Choice “Almost Heaven” by John Denver
Shani Diluka Highlights Warner Classics Exclusive Artist (Please click on arrow)
Internationally acclaimed pianist Shani Diluka, Exclusive Artist with Warner Classics, and hailed by the press as “one of the great pianists of her generation” (Piano Magazine) , is preparing for an exceptional season. Her recordings, regularly distinguished with the Diapason, 4FFFF Telerama Choc de Classica, Gramophone recommandation, and the Japan Arena Award, have earned her a worldwide reputation. Shani Diluka’s parents are Gilbert and Shivanthi Abeygooneratne, who are from Sri Lanka. They ensured that Shani and her sister Rika knew about their Sri Lankan heritage while they were growing up in Monaco.
Beautiful Naomie Ranatunge and Mark Morrison Wedding at the Four Seasons in Westlake Village, Ca. Daughter of Dr Bandula and Shyama Ranatunge of Lancaster, Ca. (Photos by Moran Moran)
Keys of Passion – LA Sunshine – Thaminie Perera #finntvusa (Please click on arrow below)
Clarendon Foundation’s Donor Appreciation Celebration
Kaleidoscope with Savithri Rodrigo October 9th, 2025 (Please click on arrow)
Young contemporaries unite, a legacy of culinary excellence, many firsts and more! On the show today – Dharshan Munidasa of Nihonbashi | George Keyt Foundation’s Young Contemporaries 2025| Quick News Round up | Markets | World’s Firsts | Best Gin | & more!
Obituaries – Sad News
Brian Rambukpotha – Son of the late Victor (Rate Mahathya) and Hema Rambukpotha (nee Weragama) Kumarihamy, brother of late Anton Rambukpotha, son-in-law of late Reggie and Wimala Halangoda, husband of Kanthi Rambukpotha (nee Halangoda), father of Arjuna, Sanjeewa and Samudra Rambukpotha, Nawinna, father-in-law of Renuka (nee Gangoda), Shalika (nee Amarasekera), and Jaliya Nawinna (Entrepreneur), grandfather of Thanuja Dinal (Software Engineer), Keshiya Draupadi, Trevin and Nikki (students at Deakin Unversity, Melbourne), Dr. Lakshika, Dr. Theekshana (University of Glasgow), Dhanika (student at University of Melbourne). Cremation was at Mahaiyawa Cemetery on October 2nd, 2025.
Recipes From Roma’s Kitchen
JAPCHAE (Korean Noodle Speciality)
Ingredients
- 4 cooked potions of dangmeon cooked sweet potato starch noodles
- 1 Carrot, peeled and julienned
- 1/2 Onion, cut into 1/4″ slices
- 2 cups oyster mushrooms, cut into bitesized pieces
- 1 1/2 TBSP white granulated sugar
- 3 TBSP Soya Sauce
- 2 tspn. vegetable oil
- Pinch of Black Pepper (optional)
- 1 tspn. roasted Sesame seeds (optional)
STEP 1
If Danmyeon noodles are long, carefully cut the noodles with scissors to make them fit the diameter of the diameter of the inner pot. Lay the nodles in a criss-cross pattern to prevent clumping.
STEP 2
Lay the Carrots, Onions and mushrooms on top of noodles.
STEP 3.
In a small bowl, whisk sugar, soy sauce, vegetable oil, and 3/4 cup of water until well combined. Drizzle liquid over the vegetables and noodles. These quantities are sufficient to serve four or you can serve it as a side dish. I once served it with a
Sri Lankan Shrimp Curry and it was very nice.You can even put some sauteed Shrimp in a little Chilli
Sauce (not too much) or just drizzle with a spoon on top of the whole dish. Should you have any questions or requests, please email me and I will be happy to help you.
This Korean Dish is absolutely lovely to look at and a treat in it’s light but interesting flavors. I am answering the first question which you will send. The DANGMEON (sweet potato starch noodles) is not
difficult to find in the Asian Markets and are sold in packets.
Simple to make and is not drowned in different flavors.
Enjoy!
Upul Continues Commitment to Travel Business honouring decades of Service to the Sri Lankan Community in USA*
|
Los Angeles, CA – In a statement today, Upul Dharmadasa expressed his ongoing dedication to the travel industry, reinforcing his commitment to serving the travel needs of the Sri Lankan community in the United States. With over 40 years of experience in this vibrant sector, Upul remains a pivotal figure for travellers seeking guidance and support.
His involvement in the travel business is as steadfast as it has ever been. He noted that “It has been an honour to serve our community and facilitate their journeys, and will continue to do so with greater commitment.”
In addition to his work within the travel sector, he has recently had the privilege of contributing to Sri Lanka’s aviation and hospitality industries as the Chairman of the Sri Lanka Civil Aviation Authority and Chairman of the Colombo Hilton. Upul has recently been awarded a Master’s degree in Business Administration from Teesside University, Middlesbrough, Tees Valley, United Kingdom upon successful completion of the program.
His leadership during the critical covid-19 pandemic has further solidified his role as an influential advocate for progress within the travel and hospitality sectors. Through his extensive knowledge of the international flight connections and routes during pandemic period from 2020-2022 he spearheaded the Sri Lankan repatriation programme. Being the Chairman of the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka at the time. He was responsible for bringing home 138,000 stranded Sri Lankans around the globe.
At the same time, he was vigorously restructuring his travel agency operations in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, which brought the global aviation industry to its knees. Thankfully, the industry has now revived, and so has Upul’s Travel Service back in business at full strength.
Upul’s Travel has proudly served the Sri Lankan community, earning their trust as a reliable travel professional since its inception in 1984. Today, Upul’s Travel Service has expanded to operate round the clock, with 24/7 service by establishing a call centre in Sri Lanka. Upul personally oversees the entire operation of Upul’s Travel Service in both the USA and Sri Lanka.
Further he is the owner of “Upperclass Travel Inc.” selling discounted First/Business class wholesale airline tickets to over 150,000 Travel Agents in USA. Upperclass Travel is a well-known brand name among the travel agents in the USA. It was established in 2002 in California.
It is with pride that Upul shares the news of the Agency’s expansion by launching a sister company Uholidays Pvt (Ltd) to handle both inbound and outbound travel, ensuring a complete range of services for all your travel needs, mindful that you will always be in the safe hands of professionals.
CONTACT : 800 918 9770, 626 967 0960 & Info@utravel.com
Good News From Jayam October 1, 2025 Pls Scroll Down 35 items
Good News From Jayam October 1, 2025 Pls Scroll Down 35 items
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This poem was written by the famous Sri Lankan Singer/Composer Desmond Kelly in 2015. Desmond was a big fan of ‘Good News From Jayam’
The World’s in turmoil, but who really cares?
The pot’s on the boil. no smiles only stares.
But really, there’s no need for “singing the blues”
Just sit yourself down and read “Jayam’s Good News”
For stories that matter, with “fotos” to match
There are no sudden curves, no rotten eggs hatch
He picks out the good ones, bright colors and hues
This is the content of “Jayam’s Good News”
Autumn Has Arrived – In California
(Yosemite National Park in fall)
Please click on link below for website and past issues
63rd Independence Day in Long Beach, Ca. (Circa 2011). “It was the best celebration in the USA”
The Best Consul General to Los Angeles –
Jeff Goonewardena – Director, Thilanka Group.
Video Produced and Directed
by Don Mangala Jayakody,
The Fabulous Carpenter Long Beach Auditorium arranged by
Dr. Sarath and Hemanthi Gunatilaka
(Please click on arrow and bring back memories!)
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Dr Melanie Wanigatunga Weds
Dr. Patrick Sweeney in Atlanta, Georgia
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Old Joes Association of California Presents ” A Walk Down Memory Lane” Saturday, February 21st, 2026 Save The Date!
New Movie About Marlon Brando “Waltzing with Brando” (Billy Zane looks just like Brando) (Please click on arrow)
Prishan Pandithage Studios “a polished photo builds trust and credibility instantly”
At the Famous Peabody Hotel in Memphis, Tennessee
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Nice picture of a dynamic couple! Tony and Rosemary Foenander of Burbank, Ca. taken last year at the Taj Mahal in India
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Exports exceed $ 11.5 b in first eight months (exports to the US increased by 3.78 %)
Sri Lanka’s export sector continues to show strong resilience, registering over $ 11.54 billion in total exports during the first eight months of 2025, a 6.61% year-on-year (YoY) growth, alongside the strongest performance recorded for the month of August. August 2025 marked a notable performance, with total exports, including both merchandise and services, climbing to over $ 1.6 billion, registering a 2.57% YoY increase. The US, Sri Lanka’s largest single export destination accounting for 23% of the country’s merchandise exports, increased by 1.03 % to $ 304.07 million in August 2025 compared to August 2024.
Furthermore, exports to the US increased by 3.78 % over the cumulative period from January to August 2025, reaching $ 2,013.13 million. (Daily Financial Times)
St Joseph Hospital – Negombo “To Live is a Privilege”
Happy 50th Birthday Bill Rutnam of Toronto, Canada
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Celebrating Rohan Hatharasinghe’s 70th Birthday in Agoura Hills, Ca. were his wife Manomi and world travellers, Aloma and Denzil Ratnasoma of Sierra Madre, Ca. |
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Jayam’s Choice “Sound of Music” Danielle de Niese (Please click on arrow)
Victor Melder of Melbourne, Australia Celebrates 90th Birthday
(In 1993, the Government of Sri Lanka bestowed on Victor the National Title ‘Sri Lanka Ranjana’, in recognition of his then twenty five years meritorious service to Sri Lanka in Australia.)
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Jayatilaka Clan Celebrate in London – Children of R. E. Jayatilaka – Ceylon Government Minister of Transportation and MP for Nawalapitiya
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“Pinga” by Priyanka Chopra and Deepika Padukone (Don’t miss this one) (Please click on arrow)
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Kaleidoscope With Savithri Rodrigo September 11th, 2025 (Please click on arrow)
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Obituaries – Sad News
Robert Redford (89) the dashing actor and Oscar-winning director who eschewed his status as a Hollywood leading man to champion causes close to his heart, has died.
“Robert Redford passed away on September 16, 2025, at his home at Sundance in the mountains of Utah–the place he loved, surrounded by those he loved. Known for his starring roles in “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid” and “All the President’s Men,” Redford also directed award-winning films such as “Ordinary People” and “A River Runs Through It.”
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Recipes From Roma’s Kitchen
Tangy Crab Salad Sandwiches
Ingredients
- 8oz (250g) Japanese or baby cucumbers
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (150g) cooked or canned crabmeat
- 2 tablespoons lemon or lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper
- 4 fresh tofu buns or poppy seed bread or all
- grain bread rolls
- 1 teaspoon finely sliced Thai basil leaves, to serve.
CHILLI DRESSING
- 1 to 2 tablespoons minced red finger- length
- chilli
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 shallots or 1 small onion, minced
- 1/2 cup (125ml) water
- 1 1/2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons fish sauce
METHOD
1.Make the Chilli Dressing by combining all the ingredients in a saucepan and simmer over high heat for about 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture has thickened. Remove and set aside to cool.
2.Peel the cucumbers, then slice very thinly. If using larger cucumbers, cut in half lengthwise first, scrape out the seeds with a spoon before slicing the cucumbers. Rub the salt into the cucumber slices and mix well, then strain or squeeze the cucumber to remove the liquid. Add all but 1 Tablespoon of the chilli dressing, crabmeat, lemon or lime juice and pepper to the cucumber slices and toss to combine.
3.Make a slit in the Bread Rolls and stuff each roll with the cocumber crab mixture, then top with reserved Chilli Dressing and Basil leaves when served.
NOTE: Japanese cucumbers are very small and crunchy, and almost seedless. Baby cucumbers.
jayam2424@yahoo.com
Good News From Jayam – September 15, 2025
World Bank Says Sri Lanka Recovery Remarkable, Among Fastest Worldwide
The World Bank said Sri Lanka has made remarkable strides in stabilising its economy, undertaking one of the largest fiscal adjustments in its history, equal to nearly 8% of GDP over three years, and doing it faster than most countries. In a statement announcing the release of its latest diagnostic title ‘Sri Lanka Public Finance Review: Towards a Balanced Fiscal Adjustment’, the World Bank said that this adjustment was also sharper and faster by international standards when compared with more than 330 similar efforts in 123 countries worldwide since 1980.
Patriots Day – Never Forget – September 11, 2001
USA/Sri Lanka Pacific Angel Military Exercise
Sri Lanka will host Exercise Pacific Angel – 2025 will mark another milestone in regional defence cooperation. The exercise will bring together the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF), United States Pacific Forces (USPF), Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), Japan Air Self-Defence Force (JASDF), Indian Air Force (IAF), Maldivian National Defence Force (MNDF) and Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) as participants. The Sri Lanka Navy (SLN) and Sri Lanka Army (SLA) will also play an active role. Three-hundred personnel of which 123 represent foreign contingents will participate. The scale and diversity of the participating forces reflect the growing importance of collaborative training in addressing Search and Rescue (SAR), Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) and Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR).
If you are visiting Sri Lanka for the New Year – Don’t Miss the New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner Dance at the Colombo Hilton
A Sri Lankan-American Dream:
J Med Supply Inc. Named to Inc. 5000 List of America’s Fastest-Growing Companies
J Med Supply Inc., a dynamic force in the U.S. healthcare sector, has earned a coveted spot on the 2025 Inc. 5000 list, a prestigious ranking of the fastest growing private companies in the United States. The recognition marks a proud milestone in the journey of John Amirthiah, the Sri Lankan born entrepreneur behind the company’s success.
Founded in 2016 from John’s garage, J Med Supply Inc. has grown into one of the largest distributors of durable medical equipment (DME) on the U.S. West Coast. Apart from J Med, John is the founder of J Med’s sister company Motion Complex Rehab (MCR) as well as JiVE Healthcare, JCare all under J Holding Inc supporting the healthcare industry.
Zahira College marks its 133rd Anniversary
The Zahira College, Colombo, celebrated its 133rd Anniversary at the College Ghafoor Hall recently. The event was organized by the Group of 2010s in collaboration with the Old Boys Association of the College. Chairman of the Board of Governors Fouzul Hameed, Secretary Nuzri Munsoor and Principal of the Zahira College Trizviiy Marikkar attended the ceremony.The President and Secretary of the OBA, along with OBA Executive Committee Members and Group of 2010s President Afzar Arham and Members and Chairman and Secretary, Sports Committee were also present.
All Lankan Basketball Tournament
at Stevenson Park in Carson, Ca.
Noah Fernando and Rosemary Perera.
Robert Rutnam – AYSO Soccer
Son of Dennis Andre and Lupe Rutnam
of Arleta, Ca.
Flashback With the Stars September Tour
in Los Angeles “POSTPONED”
“Flashback with the Stars September U.S. Tour” has been cancelled. We truly apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused to those who were looking forward to the event as much as we were. This was a mutual decision reached after careful discussion among the tour’s organizers. Thusitha Sudarshani De Silva T & S Productions USA
President Aruna Dissanayake will be in New York to attend the 80th General Assembly of the United Nations on September 9th, 2025
According to informed sources, he will NOT
visit Los Angeles, this time around
St. Joseph Hospital – Negombo
“To Live is a privilege”
Angelenos Cruising on the Carnival Jubilee
Jayam’s Choice
“It’s Not Unusual”
by Tom Jones
Baritone Gehan Cooray
at the Green Room in New York
Famous Sri Lankan-born baritone Gehan Cooray recently performed at the Green Room in New York, much to the delight of New Yorkers who enjoyed his outstanding performance. Pictured here with him is renowned singer Eranga Pieris of the celebrated duo Eranga and Priyanga. Gehan first captivated audiences at the Sri Lanka Foundation Awards held at the Millennium Biltmore Hotel in Los Angeles, California.
The Jasmine Years
by Charmaine Schuilling (Author)
Book Launch in September 2025
Now available on amazon.com
In a quiet home in Galle, a woman reflects on the life she has lived the love she found, the grief she endured, and the scent of jasmine that never quite left her door. Spanning decades and continents-from rainy lanes in Sri Lanka to sun-bleached balconies in Jeddah-The Jasmine Years is the hauntingly beautiful story of Evangeline Grace: daughter, wife, mother, and survivor of life’s quiet undoings. With a voice as lyrical as it is unflinching, she invites us into the unspoken spaces of womanhood-the weight of silence, the ache of absence, and the miracle of rediscovery. Told with tenderness and literary grace, this unforgettable memoir weaves together memory and longing, faith and fracture, in a tapestry of a life not marked by grandeur, but by perseverance, dignity, and the quiet strength to begin again. For every woman who has loved deeply, lost quietly, and still found her way home.
Asian Aviation Centre Awards
Annual Academic Awards 2025
Celebrating AAC’s 40th Anniversary
“Kaleidoscope with Savithri Rodrigo
September 4th, 2025
Dr Anton James – Shehani Seneviratne – Inflation – Budget Deficit – Beethoven Haus – Lencois Maranhenses – Tiramisu Taster and more!
Obituaries – Sad News
Dr Mohamed Lareef Idroos (84)
of La Canada, Ca. passed away on September 1st, 2025.
Beloved husband of Nabila and father of Shireen, Sabrina and Samira
Funeral was on September 4th
at Rose Hills Memorial Park,
Whittier, Ca.
Dr Lareef Idroos, was a past pupil of St Thomas College. He headed the Kaiser Permanente Hospital in Hollywood, Ca. A highly respected and loved doctor to all his patients.
Lareef Idroos was a successful leg-spin and googly bowler for S. Thomas’ College in the late 1950s; entered the Medical Faculty circa 1960 and was a member of the University of Ceylon cricket team under Carlyle Perera which secured the Sara Trophy during a spectacular season 1962/63. After he migrated to USA in the 1970s, he played for USA in the ODI tournaments conducted by the ICC in the late 1970s.
“Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi”
Ernest Christopher Arendtsz, beloved husband of Vilma Therese (nee Berenger) dec., loving father of Roger and his partner Michelle brother of Carmen and Richard (Dick)
Grandfather of Matthew and Hayley, great grandfather to Oliver and Evie and Lennie and Teddy. Chris passed away peacefully at Knox Private Hospital in Melbourne after a short illness during the early hours of Saturday morning 23/8/25 four weeks short of his 88th Birthday. He will be sadly missed by his family and friends.
Stafford Tambimuttu (83) passed away in Melbourne, Australia on August 27, 2025. Husband of April Carol (née Vanderwall), father of Tammy, Tania and Shaun, grandfather of Aaron, Trent, Hayden and Jackson, great grandfather of Matthew, Zayn, Zoey, Heidi and Lucas. Son of Walter and Dulcie (née Scharenguivel), brother of Winston, Karina, and Nihal Gunewardene. The Funeral was on September 9th at St Joseph’s Church Springvale. Burial was at Springvale cemetery.
Recipes From Roma’s Kitchen
Fiery Citrus Salsa
INGREDIENTS
1green apple
2 fresh red chillies, halved and seeded
1garlic clove
8 fresh mint leaves
juice of 1 lemon
salt and ground black pepper
METHOD
1.Slice the bottom off the orange so that it stands
firmly on a chopping board. Using a large, sharp
knife, remove the peel slicing from the top of the
orange.
2.Fold the orange in one hand over the bowl.Slice
towards the middle of the fruit, to one side of a
segment, and then gently twist the knife to ease
the segment away from the membrane and out
of the orange. Remove to remove all of the segments
and squeeze any juice from the remaining membrane.
3.Peel the apple, slice it into wedges and remove
the core.
4.Place the chillies in a blender or food processor
with the orange segments and juice, apple wedges,
garlic and mint.
5.Process until smooth, with the motor running,
pour in the lemon juice.
6.Season, pour into a bowl or small pitcher and serve
immediately.
SERVES 4
This very unusual Salsa makes a fantastic marinade
for all kinds of shell fish, and it is deliciuos when drizzled
over freshly barbecued meat.
If you are feeling really fiery, don’t seed the chillies!
That will make the Salsa particularly hot and fierce!
House For Sale in Kurunegala
Living Legends – Tissa Atapattu – Planting
Memoirs of Tissa Atapattu
Not long after I left school (Royal College), in late February 1955, I was interviewed by the Managing Director of Bosanquet & Skrine Mr. Walter Berry and his assistant Alan Sharp Paul.
There were three other strong candidates interviewed that same afternoon, all from St. Thomas’ College, two from planting families and the other the swimming champion of St. Thomas’ – I was fortunate to get the job – obviously my brother’s good reputation as an established, efficient SD in the Agency of Whittals helped.
In early March, my parents equipped me with Planting gear – suitable field shoes, stockings, khaki shorts, short sleeved shirts, underwear, a field hat to shade me from the sun, and prepared me for my Planting career. The exercise was easy for them as my elder brother was one of the first recruits when the British decided to Ceylonise the industry, and he was already well-established as Assistant Superintendent on Gonapitiya Group, Kandapola, and so they were familiar with what was required to equip me for my new life.
One warm, dry afternoon in mid-March, my father drove me from Kandy to Kandaloya Estate, Dolosbage, my first appointment with the Ceylon & Indian Planters Association – a Sterling Company in the Agency of Bosanquet and Skrine.
Kandaloya Estate, that last name in the Red Book (Ferguson’s Directory) shown as YAKDESSA (Devils place) was located 16 miles off the main Nawalapitiya/Ginigathena road, a dirt road (cart road} as we called it.
We arrived at the Kandaloya Superintendent’s bungalow at 3pm as arranged. My father left after meeting the British Superintendent, a handsome man of 32 years (an ex Naval Officer) and his wife. They had two children, Angela aged 3 years and John aged 1½ years whom I got to know well, and they became very close to me.
My father said good bye and departed after tea, leaving me in the good hands of my new BOSS.
After tea, my boss (PD) showed me my room where I will stay with him during my ‘creeping” period of six months. I will be paid a salary of Rs.350 during my creeping period of which my PD would be paid Rs.300 for training and for board and lodging. I was shown around the bungalow, garden, tennis court etc., and we chatted for awhile. I distinctly recall him saying
” Tissa, this weather (meaning hot and arid and windy) is driving me to drink!”
I really did not understand what he meant until I was well into the start of my career. Obviously, the weather was most unsuitable, growth was low, crop was down.
The next morning, I was out with my PD early at about 7.30 after breakfast. He drove me around the estate in his Land Rover with his dog SHANDY a golden cocker spaniel drooling all over my shoulder. He showed me my future bungalow on Upper Division being restored. There had been no SD living there for many years. There was no electricity and a Harrison Lister Lighting set was being repaired to await the new SD’s occupation. There was also NO telephone and no refrigerator.
I was still a grown-up schoolboy, mostly nervous and clueless and 90% of what he told me did not mean much at that time. The next morning he introduced me to Ramiah Kangany of 90 acres division who also spoke Sinhalese. My PD was very thoughtful and Ramiah was certainly an asset to show me the “ropes” as I did not speak or understand any Tamil. I was given a copy of INGE WA ANGE PO a Tamil English plantation book which became my Bible during my creeping period.
I was out in the field thereafter for weeks with Ramiah Kangany until I got more confidence. Then I ventured on my own discovering how a Plantation operates from morning muster to evening final weighing of green leaf. Kandaloya also had a large acreage of cardamoms harvested every three weeks and dried in a cardamom drier located close to the tea factory.
Every evening after work and after my shower, my PD would come into my room and question me on what I had learned that day, including Tamil words I had learned. He also asked me general knowledge questions unrelated to Planting to find out what knowledge I had and in turn I too asked several that interested me e.g. why is one called a CREEPER? He replied that in planting jargon a creeper is the lowest form or life, lower than a cooly!
I must confess, he did take a great deal of trouble training me.
Well before the end of three months, my PD called me to his office and told me he was very happy with my progress and had recommended that my creeping be reduced to three months and that I should be confirmed in my appointment as Assistant Superintendent. I was delighted. He also got the Assistant’s bungalow completed, furnished it and got me to move in. I hired an Appu and a houseboy. As there was no refrigerator, I lived on eggs and once a week awaited a beef box from Nawalapitiya that also carried beef for my PD. My Appu roasted the beef as soon as it was received as there was no refrigerator. Occasionally, I got corned beef from Armistice Stores in Nawalapitiya with other provisions like sugar, onions potatoes etc. Fresh milk was supplied from the Lines from a labourer who owned a cow.
I was now 18 miles off the main Nawalapitiya/Ginigathena road in the middle of NOWHERE (Yakdessa).
Soon the Southwest Monsoon broke and I learned to my horror Kandaloya received a total of nearly 250 inches of rain per year, sometime15 inches in a single day! An umbrella was useless and I learned to get drenched each day. There were leeches as long as three inches everywhere and more in the cardamom fields.
Another feature of Kandaloya is that I believe it is located on LODESTONE as it attracted fearful lightning storms, so much so telephones to the office and Superintendent’s bungalow never worked and often during a storm, sparks flew out of the electric sockets (plugs). The Visiting Agent Mr. Murray Jackson refused to visit during the stormy weather as he was scared to death! No surprise it is called YAK DESSA!
My PD and his wife appeared very fond of me and so were their children, so much so that he invited me to stay in his bungalow, left his kids with the Nanny and the men servants and went on long holiday to Trincomalee for ten days. That was a HUGE compliment.
During my period as SD on Kandaloya, my PD encouraged me to play rugby when he learned I had played for Royal College, and he contacted the captain of the Dickoya team David Perkins who was Superintendent of Osborne Estate, Hatton. David included me in his team. I had no transport, I took the rice lorry that came each Saturday morning and returned to Nawalapitiya in the afternoon. From there I took the bus to Dickoya and often arrived at Darrawela Club after the game was over. This did not deter me, I was keen on rugby, having recently played school rugby and continued each Saturday traveling by rice lorry and bus. (See attached photo of the Dimbula-Dickoya 1955 team). Many of both teams have since passed on. Occasionally, my captain David Perkins and his wife Pene invited me to stay the Saturday night in their bungalow in Osborne. 1957 was a difficult year for Dimbula and Dickoya rugby and we jointly formed a Dim/Dicks team in 1958 and 1959.
After I finished about a year he went home on furlough and a person who used to be SD on Kandaloya acted for him for three months.
After my regular PD returned from furlough things were different and he began to turn nasty on me, picking faults whenever he could. I had done over a year’s Planting by that time. He abused me in Tamil in the presence of the pluckers and often called me “you inefficient Ceylonese”.
I used to walk the length and breadth of the estate as I had no motorcycle nor car. I asked him to write to the Company and request a loan to buy a motor bike and in a couple of weeks he told me that they had responded in the negative saying they did not trust Ceylonese SD’s! I then bought my father’s car and repaid him in installments.
I was getting disgusted with Planting being constantly abused by my PD. I became so angry, I wanted to beat him up and leave. However, before doing so, I wrote to my brother and he came within a few days to speak with me. He advised me to be patient and tolerate the abuse, not to retaliate in any form as I would not be able to find another Planting job.
I took his advice and had to ‘bite the bullet”. For my good fortune, the SD on Laxapana, another estate in the company was going on furlough and I transferred temporally to St. Andrews Division as Acting SD. After about six months on Laxapana I was transferred by Bosanquet’s to Kandenuwara Estate, Elkaduwa to act for the European Superintendent who was going on furlough.
I was still young and comparatively inexperienced, I was therefore, overseen by the Superintendent of the adjoining Hunugalla Estate, also a European. I was told that at the end of six months on Kandenuwara, I would be transferred to act on Hunugalla Estate when the superintendent goes on furlough again, to be overseen now by the Superintendent of Kandenuwara when he returned from the U.K.
I continued to be interested in rugby and turned up for practice with the hope of playing for Kandy. Unfortunately for me, the PD from Hunugalla who was overlooking me was also a rugby player, and played winger, the same position as me. He too turned up for practice and the next day he told me that I cannot play as he was interested in playing the position. I did not argue.
The Visiting Agent was very pleased with my work on Kandanuwara and as my future was unsure after Hunugalla, he informed me that he knew a permanent position as Assistant Superintendent falling vacant in the prestigious Nuwara Eliya Tea Estates Company, a Sterling company for which he was the VA. I applied for the position recommended by him and was appointed Assistant on Concordia Group, Kandapola, St. Johns Division in October 1958.
I played rugby for Dimbula in 1960 and 1961 and gave up playing from 1962 onwards when I was promoted to Superintendent. (See attached photo).
I played rugby for Dimbulla (DACC) captained by Mike Waring and the next year by T.B. Pilapitiya both of whom represented Up Country and Ceylon. In our teams were exceptional and talented players both Ceylonese and European.
I also played cricket for Dickoya (DMCC) with some greats of that time – Douglas Ironside and Tommy Le Mercier to name a few. In Dimbulla, I had the pleasure and privilege playing under the captaincy of Gamini Salgado, my brother Saliya, Vernon and Ralston Tissera and Gamini Tennekoon. We had many reputable players in our side like R.L. (Robert) de Kretser who represented Ceylon. The legendary M. Sathasivam also honored us by playing in a friendly game when he was visiting the district on business.
I was happy on Concordia, did well, for nearly four years. My bungalow was close to the main Kandapola-Nuwara Eliya Road and only 15 minutes to Nuwara Eliya. I had many visitors and many friends, loved the climate and everything about Nuwara Eliya and the Uda Pussellawa district. I fortunately had the nicest PD, a real gentleman, who was a third generation English Tea Planter in Ceylon.
I was given the position of Acting Manager Concordia Group from June 1962. I married Sheila Dharmasiriwardhane in June 1962 and took over as acting Manager when my PD went on furlough. A Group photo of the Concordia Group Staff welcoming my wife and I is attached.
In September, when the permanent Manager returned, I was asked to act for the Superintendent Hethersett Estate, Kandapola (the factory is now The TEA FACTORY converted into a hotel by Aitken Spense.)
I was the FIRST non-BRITISH Superintendent on Hethersett. As Superintendent Hethersett, I also had to overlook Goatfell Estate next door and St. Margaret’s Estate, Uda Pussellawa belonging to Mackwoods Ltd., again, the first non-European to be in charge.
My wife and I proceeded to the U.K on furlough in December 1962 to return to a permanent billet – Parragalla Estate, Nawalapitiya belonging to Gibson Tea Estates, the company recently purchased by The Nuwara Eliya Tea Estates Co.
Gibson’s also owned Kahagalla Estate Haputale, Meriabedde Group, Koslanda and the senior billet Needwood Group, Haldummulla which included Idalgashena Estate.
When I took over Parragalla Estate, I was told that the company had decided to sell the property as it was in neglect and that I would be moved elsewhere when sold.
In six months, the Visiting Agent reported a huge improvement in appearance and profit and they decided not to sell. The Chairman from London who was originally a Planter in the Nuwara Eliya Co., visited Parragalla and stayed three days with us and was most impressed with the improvements.
Our first child was born at the Hatton Nursing Home when we were on Parragalla.
Several months later, I had a telephone call from the Chairman in London and he asked me if I could take over Needwood in a few days to relieve the Acting Manager who was being charged with fraud. I agreed and moved within days to relieve the Acting Manager. The Auditors from Colombo were present on the estate inquiring into the fraud when I took over. Most embarrassing as the accused was a close friend.
When the permanent Manager of Needwood, a Scotsman returned from furlough, I handed over Needwood to him and transferred to Kahagalla Estate in Haputale as Superintendent. Kahagalla was a well-managed high yielding property that had a quaint Bungalow that resembled a Cottage in England.
In 1964 again, I was asked to take over Needwood from the Scotsman, a senior Planter as the staff had gone on strike as the Manager had taken the Tea Maker by his ear and rubbed his nose on the fermenting table! There were several other complaints against the Manager, and the strike spread throughout the industry! The Scotsman was dismissed, and I took over Needwood with the staff and labour on strike.
I spent the next few months in and out of labour tribunals and court attending to matters following the staff and labour disputes.
I had two SD’s on Needwood, the senior SD on Idalgashena Div. and the other on Haldummulla Div.
Our second child was born in 1965 at the Kandy Nursing Home when we were on Needwood. We enjoyed our life on Needwood. After the strikes I concentrated on the plantation and two factories. The labour force was troublesome, and I had to be very firm and did not tolerate indiscipline and inefficiency. The Trade Unions were very supportive and considered my handling of labour very fair. I dismissed 150 workers and several members of staff for indiscipline and delighted that I won all the cases without any issues. Fortunately, we had a great LRO (Labour Relations Officer) Mr. Fred de Vos and retained an excellent attorney, Mr. Jack Kotelawala from Badulla.
The Needwood bungalow was beautiful, located in a spot overlooking the Hambegamuwa plains looking on to Hambantota.
The Visiting Agent was very pleased with the appearance of the estate, reduced costs and manufacture and wrote two excellent reports commending my work. Co-incidentally, again, the newly appointed Chairman from the U.K. visited and was overjoyed with the V.A.’s reports and appearance of Needwood.
However, apart from verbal compliments, he nor the company did nothing to show their appreciation except verbal praise. My pay was still thousands of rupees lower than what they paid the previous manager and my annual bonus a pittance compared with what others received!
Our elder son was now over two years and before long we had to consider sending him to school in Colombo. We were wondering how we would manage schooling. For our good fortune, totally unexpected, one of my previous VA’s called and asked if I would be interested in joining him to run the Estate Department at Shaw Wallace & Hedges. The terms they offered were excellent and in August 1966, I tendered my resignation to Leechman & Co. who were now Agents & Secretaries for Gibson Estates and the Nuwara Eliya Tea Estates Co., and moved to Colombo. During my happy Planting days, I made close and lifelong friends among the European SD’s who were about my age and commenced Planting in the mid 1950’s – the late Peter Albright, Douglas Stewart Richard Bolster, Tony Payne, George Gillespie, Hans Von Mossenbach and Robin Parker, and I continue to keep in touch with some of them and visit them whenever we visit the U.K.
I worked ten years in Colombo at Shaw Wallace & Hedges who were in addition to being Estate and Plantation Managers, were also manufacturers of fertilizers, agro chemicals, blenders and exporters of tea, agents for shipping companies, Pan American Airways, insurance and much more. I was given the opportunity as a Senior Executive of Shaw Wallace & Hedges Ltd., to oversee and supervise many of the company’s businesses whenever needed and learned a great deal about how businesses and corporations are managed efficiently.
I decided to emigrate to the U.S.A. in 1975.
The training experience and discipline I acquired during my Planting career and as a Senior Executive of Shaw Wallace & Hedges cannot be replicated. Again, in Colombo, as an AGENCY WALLAH, I made lifelong friends.
Using my training, discipline and experience in Sri Lanka, I developed a very successful manufacturing and export business in Food & Ingredients in the U.S.
I educated myself, became a member of The Institute of Food Technology and did several courses related to Food ingredients and beverages that helped me develop unique products which I exported worldwide, having also developed international marketing skills in the days before the internet. Some of my suppliers and partners were Cargill Inc. (the largest privately-owned company in the world), Archer Daniel Midland (AM) Kraft Food Ingredients, Dean Foods and Anheuser Busch.
Single-handed with no employees I exported several million U.S. Dollars per annum before I retired and sold my business.
Tissa Atapattu