Ālaya - Vastu Expo - 2025

The Department of Sanskrit and Eastern Studies at the University of Kelaniya successfully hosted the inaugural exhibition dedicated to Vāstuśāstra in Sri Lanka on August 11 and 12, 2025, on the university premises. This significant event was organized in collaboration with the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre and the High Commission of India, aiming to showcase the research and designs of Honours undergraduates specializing in Vāstuśāstra. The Vice Chancellor of the University of Kelaniya served as the Chief Guest, while Professor Ankuran Dutta, Director of the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre, acted as the Guest of Honour. The Dean of the Faculty of Humanities, Dr. Sudath Senarath, alongside the Heads of Departments within the Faculty, Senior Professor Patrick Ratnayake, Senior Professor Lakshman Seneviratne, and numerous other academic members, actively participated in the exhibition.

Prominent guest dignitaries included Venerable Professor Nawagamuwe Revatha Thero, Director of Paliyagoda Vidyalankara Pirivena; Venerable Velimitiyawe Gnanarathana Thero, Director of the Center for Distance and Continuing Education; Venerable Professor Dodamkumbure Dhammadassi Thero; and a substantial number of other distinguished guests were participated in this exhibition.

Notable personalities such as acclaimed racer Dilantha Malagamuwa and singer Amarasiri Peiris, as well as local and international professors and students from partner universities, attended to view the exhibitions. The exhibition served as a unique platform for students to showcase their groundbreaking work and research findings, fostering an environment of innovation and learning. The event's significance transcended national borders, with comprehensive coverage on television channels in India, highlighting the exhibition's international appeal. In conjunction with the exhibition, a dedicated YouTube channel titled Ālaya and a journal by the same name were launched, designed to further feature the students’ exceptional work.

This Vastu Expo - Exhibition was organized under the great vision of the newly appointed Head of Department, Senior Lecturer Udawela Revatha Thero, this exhibition represents a noteworthy advancement in the field of Vāstuśāstra.