Sri Lanka - Expo Aichi 2005
The exhibition aimed to present Sri Lanka as the cradle of a unique natural, religious and cultural setting initiated through the unique art and architecture practiced by the Theravada Buddhist. The Theravada school of Buddhism has immensely rich traditions that should endear itself to any art loving visitor. The exhibition also featured Sri Lanka's traditional handicrafts, including gem cutting, which have given identity to Sri Lanka's heritage.
Colourful 6-metre long traditional flags were hung against the pavilion's façade, and three of Relipalam's "entrance vaults" decorated with red and white muslin greeted visitors to the pavilion.
Upon entering the exhibition hall, visitors had a unique opportunity to see 1,000 square metres of handmade batik on the ceiling. Each 1 square metre batik panel was illuminated from above, depicting many traditional Sri Lankan art motifs.
Visitors entering the exhibition hall saw a large copper sculpture symbolising the "Sri Maha Bodhi," the oldest historical tree in the world. It is the southern branch of the Pipul tree that provided shade for the Buddha at the time of enlightenment, brought to Sri Lanka and planted in the historic capital of Anuradhapura in the 3rd century. The Sri Maha Bodhi has been venerated and protected by Sinhala Buddhists to this day and has generated a unique Buddhist tradition of worship.
To the visitor's right was displayed a main object depicting a life-size Buddhist tomb of a typical traditional village on pillars built with wood and mud containing three Buddha statues. Its walls were painted with events from the life of Buddha and Jataka stories of Buddha's previous births.
There were also exhibits to show how medicinal herbs are used for healthy living. There were samples of traditional medicinal oils from 1,000 years ago, indigenous medical practices that have treated many human ailments. There were also exhibits to show the Sri Lankan practice of harnessing the wisdom of nature for the benefit of humanity. In addition, the exhibition had large panels depicting the tradition and culture of Sri Lanka, the beauty of nature, the glory of a 2,500 year old civilisation, the Sri Lankan way of life, and the creativity of local artists.