The cultural richness of Amazing Afghanistan I Srimal Fernando I Daily Mirror

The cultural richness of Amazing Afghanistan

(Source : Daily Mirror 

12 November  2012
By Srimal Fernando
IN RECENT YEARS, AFGHANISTAN FACED VARIOUS PROBLEMS AND SOBERING EXPERIENCES BECAUSE OF THE LONG DRAWN OUT CIVIL WAR.

Unparalleled in its cultural and ethnic diversity Afghanistan is known as the “Land of the Afghans”. On the crossroads of South and Central Asia, Afghanistan is a unique destination nestled in a particular geographic landscape endowed with many natural and historical wonders. During its long history, Afghans had to endure numerous invasions from external nations and had been under the rule of various rulers from time to time. In recent years, Afghanistan faced various problems and sobering experiences because of the long drawn-out civil war. Even today the ongoing struggle to bring peace and stability, rebuilding the war-torn nation and the continuous insurgent attacks receives heavy press coverage around the world. With all this turbulences this remarkable country maintains a sense of identity with a divinely determined past moving towards a future with optimism.

Afghanistan with enormous cultural richness and uncountable attractions needs little introduction to many visitors. The capital city of Kabul has a vibrant cultural life crowded with a   legacy of a rich cultural past .Today the city is a bustling rapidly developing place, full of traffic and crowds. Most of the old part of Kabul is filled with narrow lanes leading to bazaars. As the most populous city of Afghanistan there is no end to the breath-taking sites visitors can see in city..Of the well-known places of interest in the city are the National Museum of Afghanistan, the Kabul University and the Kabul Zoo inaugurated in 1967. Traveling in this country can be a unique experience for a traveler to discover the culture of Afghanistan. A visit to  the country  would remain incomplete  if the Blue Mosque of Mazar-I Sharif , the Friday Mosque of Herat, the 6^th centaury  Bamiyan   Buddhist  standing  statues and the snow  capped Koh- i- Baba mountains  in  center  of  the country did not appear in a travelers  itinerary.

In recent years Afghanistan is not just admired for its beauty but also for its love for theatre, films, music and dances. Indian cinema has captured the interest of many Afghan youngsters. Indian films such as Kabul Express; Escape from Taliban and  Dharmatma were filmed in Afghanistan. Throughout its long history, country had an outstanding love for music and dances .The countries classical music is one of the most elaborate and inspiring artistic forms found in South Asia .It can be divided into traditional and modern music .The traditional music comprises religious , folk genres are  highly motivational, with strong and powerful words and catchy tunes.  The traditional music of the country feature instruments such as Chang harmonica, Rubab a six string instrument and Tablas the traditional Indian sub continent drums. Dance is a way of expression of joy and serves as a means of communication transcending all barriers of culture.  The people of the country have enjoyed their own forms of song and dance for centuries. Both ethnic and modern dances are featured in the dance festivals. If one is to understand and experience the surprises of the cultures of the world, Afghanistan surely is a unique destination   not to be missed.

 http://epaper.dailymirror.lk/epaper/viewer.aspx

Nepal a Pictorial Nation in South Asia I Srimal Fernando I TROPICS MAGAZINE I South Africa

TROPICS MAGAZINE (NOVEMBER / NOVEMBRE 2012)

Nepal a Pictorial Nation in South Asia 

By Srimal Fernando

November 2, 2012

 

Nepal is one of the   most visually stunning   countries in South Asia for which any number of praising words seems inadequate. The Himalayan Mountain nation has long been known in the world over for its Majestic Everest Mountains as the highest peaks in the planet, Lumbini , the birthplace of Lord Gautama Buddha and for the world- renowned Gorkha soldiers for their reputation as fierce kukri-wielding warriors winning many battles. The landlocked Himalayan Mountainous country is nestled between China to the North and India to the South. The countries natural and historical attractions appeal to many visitors from all parts of the world. The country boasts a varied landscape ranging from flat rolling farmland to dramatic towering mountains. Of the world’s fourteen highest peaks, the country has eight that include Mount Everest known as Sagar-matha in Nepali at 29,021 feet it is the world’s highest point. This fascinating country has more than 240 peaks which are over 20,000 feet above sea level. Nepalese are warm, welcoming people who enjoy sharing the pleasures of life with others. Greetings are an important part of social interaction. “Namaste” is a common way of greeting outsiders with both   palms placed together and raised below the face. Nepal is a land of history, a country filled with the memory of many told and untold events. The country’s glory has always been its culture. The true spirit of the country’s culture is reflected in the Nepali flag. It is the only national flag in the world that is not rectangular in shape. The flag’s blue border signifies peace. The curved moon on the flag is a symbol of the peaceful and calm nature of Nepalese, while the sun represents the aggressiveness of Nepali warriors. The country boasts a wide variety of interesting places. Among them are Katmandu, Lumbini, Pokhara, Manakamana, a Hindu temple and Chitwan, wildlife Park are some of the prominent attractions that appeal to many visitors from all parts of the world. One can also fly from Kathmandu in a one hour flight in  Yeti Air jet to experience the panoramic view of the Mount Everest.

As the most populous cosmopolitan city of Nepal, Kathmandu known as the ‘City of Temples’  is situated amidst a splendid panorama in the bowl shaped Kathmandu Valley. Kathmandu is the most vibrant city in the country with number of buildings and fair assortment of other country style houses. It has a vibrant cultural life crowded with a   legacy of a rich cultural past .There is no end to the breath-taking sites visitors can see in this city. Among its highest-esteemed attractions is the Durbar Square nestled in the heart of the city. It was the ancient seat of the Nepalese Royalty. The entire palace complex named after a monkey god called Hanuman. The best-known Bouddha-nath stupa on a three tiered platform is one of the most recognizable tourist spots that attract thousands of visitors every day. Swoyambhu-nath world’s largest Shiva temple is located on a 360 steps hillock. The Swoyambhu-nath and Pashupati-nath temples are some of the prominent land marks in the city. Shopping is undoubtedly an attraction in itself as choices and variety for items here is incalculable.

 

Over centuries the country has assimilated influences of many religions. The city of Lumbini the birthplace of Lord Buddha is located in the south-western side of the country .It is another heritage attraction. It was once an extensive centre of Buddhist culture. This world heritage site is a place of pilgrimage for millions of Buddhists from all over the world.  “Hidbhudhejate Shakyamuniti” which means “Lord Gautama Buddha was born here” is mentioned in the Asoka pillar of Lumbini erected by the great King Dharmasoka. The Nepalese Government has declared 2012 as Visit Lumbini Year.

Pictorial Pokhara city known as the city of lakes needs little introduction to many visitors to Nepal. Having long been known as one of finest hill station of the country, Pokhara lies between the Great Himalayas and Mahabharata Range in the central region of the country. The great mountains of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri and Manusha can be seen from Pokhara. The Gurkha Memorial Museum is one of the most recognizable places to visit in Pokhara. It is a living testimony to the history of   the kukri-wielding Gurkha soldiers who won many battles .On the way to Pokhara is Manakamana a Hindu temple situated on a hill, which is nearly thousand meters high and is a place worth seeing. The temple can be reached through a cable car. Wildlife in the country is as diverse as its landscape, ranging from the famous Royal Bengal Tigers in the Baridia, Shiva-puri national park to the one-horned Rhinoceros in Chitwan National Park and the Himalayan black bears loitering in the Himalayan foothills. Nepal is called the land of festivals where colorful celebrations are held throughout the year. Fairs are an inseparable part of the traditional culture of the people of Nepal. Some fairs are organized because of their traditional value and social importance.Some are simply for fun and amusement. The quiet and charming environment of this country attracts thousands of tourists every year. It is a land history, heritage and visual delights. The scenic beauty which one gets to admire in Nepal is certainly a joy forever.

 ( Source : Tropics Magazine November 2012 )

Interview with Vice Rector the Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia I thediplomaticsociety.co.za I Srimal Fernando

( Source http://www.thediplomaticsociety.co.za/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=486)

The Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia has students from 150 countries  

Dr. Gulnara Krasnova

   Srimal Fernando Asia Correspondent engages Dr. Gulnara Krasnova Vice Rector on International Activity at the Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia.


The discussion was based on the present University system of Russia and learning opportunities provided to Russian and International students at the Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia.

Srimal Fernando (SF): Firstly, could you tell me a little bit about yourself and your background?

Gulnara Krasnova(GK): I was born in Kazakhstan. My first degree was in Russian literature; my PhD was devoted to philosophy and philosophy of education. I have been working at the Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia since 1999.

(SF): From the point of view of the Vice Rector of the Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia, what is your opinion about the current university system of Russia?

(GK): In my opinion both Secondary school and Undergraduate studies are well-organized. The system now is changing rapidly and is more European.

(SF): How do you evaluate the Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia’s performance within the Russian University system?

(GK): In the general rating of Russian universities we occupy the fourth place and the first place in the development of international activity.
 
(SF): Can you name some of the major undergraduate, post graduate, masters, doctoral   courses and research programs that are being offered by the Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia to the Russian and International students?

(GK): Medicine, Engineering and Russian linguistics.

A multi-cultural group of International students after a concert wearing national costumes of their countries

(SF): Out of the current International student enrolment, approximately how many   numbers of Asian and African students study various courses at the Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia.?

(GK):  There are 945 African students and 1245 students from Asia.  The majority of African students do medical and technical sciences. As for the Asian students, they mostly study humanities, especially philology and economics.

(SF): What are your thoughts about the Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia’s cooperation with South Africa and the relationship with the past and present South African students?

(GK): The Former president of South Africa, Thabo Mvuyelwa Mbeki, is our honorable Doctor. At present, we have 3 students from South Africa. It is not too many but we would love to have more South African students at PFUR.

(SF):  Through what major partner/s or agencies does  the Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia work to  promote  the Russian education system/the Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia in South Africa or in certain South and East  Asian   countries?

(GK): We are working with a company "Racus", which operates in different regions of the world, including Africa and Asia, and has offices in 58 countries. We also started working with other smaller agencies recently.

(SF): What are the challenges faced by the University? And what steps has the University taken to improve the facilities, performance and the image of the Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia.?

(GK): The biggest challenge for us is to expand: we are currently working on increasing the number of foreign students to 45% and to expand the number of countries from which our students come from to 150. We also plan to strengthen our position in international and worldwide university rankings. Another challenge we are facing is to teach all of our MA courses in English.

(SF):  Is there anything in addition that you would like to include?

(GK): Today Russia gives a lot of opportunities to foreign students. PFUR is the best choice for those who dream to study in the Russian Federation. We are proud of the fact that we have been creating the world’s elite for more than half a century. We are always ready to enroll talented young people from South Africa.

 

Film ties between Italy and Lanka I Srimal Fernando I On Line

 

Film ties between Italy and Lanka

By Srimal Fernando

The Italian Embassy in Colombo brought some impressive films and professional short-film makers to promote Italian culture and strengthen the cultural ties between the two countries.

The three day Italian Sri Lankan Film Festival was screened at the Multiplex Cine City from October 19 followed by an awards ceremony. On the occasion of the screening the experienced Italian short film making directors, Paola Randi and Stefano Martina conducted a workshop for young Sri Lankan short-film makers. Sri Lankan movie director Boodee Keerthisena also joined the workshop to share his expertise.

Together with the short film makers the Italian Ambassador Fabrizio Pio Arpea, and Managing Director of Colombo Courtyard Arun Thapar was also present on the occasion. This first Film festival between the countries was held with a motive to increase the importance of issues and subjects relating to migration. This year’s Film festival commenced with a screening of an Italian classic movie by Michelangelo Antonioni.

It was a tribute to the great legend whose birth centenary falls this year. It was well received by the audience and their interest was evident by the viewers who were present for the screening.

Into paradiso and Mille Soya were the major movies screened at the festival. The award winning South Asian Premiere, Into paradiso, directed Paola Randi, with powerful cinematic performances the Sri Lankan actor Anthony Saman was an exceptional movie at the festival. The other movie Mille Soya, directed by Boodee Keerthisena, was also popular amongst the viewers.

 ( Source : http://life.dailymirror.lk/other/local-chatter/3289-film-ties-between-italy-and-lanka.html )

The Unique Asian Culture of North Korea I Srimal Fernando

The Unique Asian Culture of North Korea

(http://epaper.dailymirror.lk/epaper/viewer.aspx)
Monday, 15 October 2012 08:48
By Srimal Fernando  

 

North Korea is famous in Asia for its great geographical settings, special historical reasons and for its unique political culture. The country occupies the Northern portion of the mountainous Korean Peninsula and is famously known as the Peoples Republic of Korea (DPRK) .The countries culturalpolicy was one of the guidingprinciples that gave birth to a unique culture that is not found in any other country in the World. As one of the most eminent personalities of this era the heroic leader Kim Il-sung is renowned for North Koreas cultural renaissance. Under the rule of Kim Il-sung the country became one of the great cultural centers of Asia and is a “kingdom of art”. Today the countrymen could proudly hold their heads up high, because of the late leader’s contributions to the nation. Inspirational noteworthy songs like “No Motherland without you” and the marching song of “General Kim Il-sung” are sung by the North Koreans in deep gratitude to their late leader.

Pyongyang the capital city is called the cultural capital of North Korea  for no other  reason than for its archeology and for it heritage .The capital town gets its name from the Korean word “Ryugyong” meaningthe “Capital of Willows”.

The North Korean cinema is characterized by rich film culture, which yet continues to shape the audience cinematic horizons. However the countries   cinema has captured the interest of many.  The film makers give the country a progressive and a positive image and it had undergone major developments in the recent years. The Pyongyang International Film Festival is a premier international film event held every two years .The romantic comedy Comrade Kim Goes Flying and Meet in Pyongyang was   screened at the Pyongyang premier international film Festival. The motion pictures for children are another  way the North Koreans have  developed  their cinema industry.

Music is an mania with the North Koreans. The North Korean music has a distinctive feel to it and portrays the culture and the traditions of the people of the country. The music of the country includes an array of traditional and popular styles, ranging from native folk music to modern rock and pop.  Songs like   ”We are One” and “Reunification Rainbow”, “Our Life Is Precisely a Song” and “We Shall Hold Bayonets More Firmly” are extremely famous songs, which showcase the culture and traditions of the North Korean people.

In addition to music, people of the country are closely associated with choreographed gymnastic dance performances and with other traditional dance types. Theatres and dance venues are mostly alive in many cities across the country.

( Source Daily Mirror Sri Lanka )

Russia the Economically Rising Super Power I Srimal FernandoI thediplomaticsociety.co.za

Visit www. thediplomaticsociety.co.za

Russia the Economically Rising Super Power

By  Srimal Fernando Asia Correspondent

Russia is one destination for which any number of praising words seem inadequate. As the largest country in the world Russia provides access to many European and Asian destinations. Russia, with a population of 143million is ranked sixth peaceful country in the world according to the Global Peace Index (GPI) report of 2012. The country is synonymous with big cities such as the capital Moscow, Saint Petersburg and the easternport city of Vladivostok.

Moscow is situated on the banks of the majestic “Moskva River” and has been a place of cultural and historical importance for centuries.  After the October Revolution of 1917 Moscow became the capital of former Soviet Union and of Russia on 12th March 1918. The city is also modern in every sense of the word, from cloud-tickling skyscrapers, world-class hotels with unparalleled service and astonishing scenery. The Red Square is one of the highest-esteemed attractions in Moscow. Of those the most exotic popular places-of-interest in the city other than the Red Squire is the stately twelfth century Moscow Kremlin. Traveling by Trans-Siberian railway 9,259 kilometers East of Moscow to Vladivostok the last major city provides a gateway to many North East Asian countries.

The country has undergone vigorous transformations following the two decades of economic reforms. In recent times the country has had a record of successful economic performances, reflected in strong growth with relative stability. The country benefits from rich natural resources, a diversified agriculture and industrial base and an export-oriented manufacturing sector. It is one of the fastest-growing economies in the world making significant headway into the international markets. The country’s highly globalised economy grew at an impressive 4.2 per cent in 2011.

Moreover, the economy benefited from the close cooperation between the public and private sectors. Russia’s strategy for an integrated development of the country has been boosting productivity and moved people in to positions of greater ability. The average nominal monthly wages increased from USD 80 in the year 2000 to USD 810 in 2011. The agriculture and industry continues to employ a significant proportion of the labor force of the country. It is the largest contributor to total the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The country enjoys a diversified service sector, which includes well-developed social, financial, insurance, real estate, transport, corporate, communication services, and tourism.

High levels of investment played a significant role in the economy of the country. The Government encourages foreign direct investments (FDI) and actively pursues the policy on economic liberalization with emphasis on private sector investments. The Ministry of Economic Development of the Russian Federation spearheads the country’s industrialization. The burgeoning highend industries, Technology, Innovative SEZs, Tourism andRecreational SEZs and Industrial Production of special economic zones (SEZs) of Russia in Lipetsk Region, Tatars tan Republic, Samara Region, Sverdlovsk Region and  Titanic Valley yield many opportunities for investment.

The country’s main export industries are machinery, equipment, electronics, consumer goods, pharmaceuticals, chemicals and minerals. In recent years the telecommunication sector of Russia has been growing at a fast pace, and the economy benefits from widespread access to communications services. The country is emerging as the world’s Information technology (IT) destination. Russia acts as an offshore development centre for several multinational companies in the world. According to Euro set Sales of smart phones in Russia increased by 74 percent year on year to approximately 2.6 million units in the first quarter of 2012. the country’s softwear and electronics industry has grown to become a vital node in the global electronics market. Electronics is the major industry underpinning the country’s economic growth. With the development of the country’s defense industry, Russia has acquired a commanding position in the global market as the world’s second largest conventional arms exporter. The defense industry provides direct employment opportunities to over 2.5 million people. The Russian automobile industry employs around 600,000 and is expected to increase its market share in Europe in the next few years.

On the development side, the energy policy of Russia is steered towards increasing the production of nuclear power, hydro-electricity and thermal powered electricity in the country. Russia is expanding its nuclear power production capacity as the fourth largest nuclear energy producer.

Petroleum and petrochemicals was another base of Russia’s industrial and economic life. The countries high economic growth was attributed to the large and growing oil and gas exports.  The crude oil, gas and petroleum pipelines remain the main economic driving force of the Russian energy sector. The country is known as a super power in electricity production. The electricity sector in Russia constitutes the third largest power market in the globe.

Russian transport infrastructure is relatively advanced. Having doubled its expressways and road networks in length in recent years, multilane expressways now connect several major cities with more under construction.  The country is situated at the crossroads of major railway lines and has an extensive network. The Russian railway tracks exceeding 85,500 kilometers connecting  Europe with Asia. The country is also modern in every sense of the word, from its super-efficient Sapsan high speed trains. Russia’s  busiest ports are experiencing tremendous growth in trans-shipment and increment of cargo volume during the last two decades. Vladivostok on the Pacific Sea, the Black sea port of Novorossiysk, St Petersburg on the Baltic is some of the main ports handling international maritime traffic. Russia has strong  air connectivity with over 1200 domestic and international airports. Sheremetyevo International Airport opened in  1959,  Moscow Domodedovo International Airport (DME ) 42 kilometers of  southeast of Moscow.  Pulkova in St Petersburg and the Vladivostok International Airport in the eastern side of Russia are some of the largest and busiest airports in the country that attract over 100  international airlines. These aviation hubs serve as a base to Aeroflot the flag carrier of the country. Tourism in the country is experiencing sustainable growth for the last three decades due to the country’s natural and historical attractions, which appeal to visitors from all parts of the world. Tourists visiting this beautiful country will find that things they can see are limitless. The country is home to many distinguished foreign tertiary institutions. The most well-known of all are the Lomonosov Moscow State University established in 1755 and the Russian State Medical University (RMU).These universities had played a pioneering role in the development of the modern education system in the country.

Russia is home to many industries and  has been an integral part that has built up strong scientific foundation with excellent global connectivity. Russia  is a  rising super power wanting to be a Global financial powerhouse in the near future.

(Source  http://www.thediplomaticsociety.co.za/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=464

Srimal Fernando joins Trpoics Magazine I Tropics Magazine October 2012 Issue

  Srimal Fernando  Joins  Tropics Magazine I Tropics Magazine -South Africa -October 2012 

  
( Source :  Tropicsmagazine October 2012 Issue )

Nominations:        

2011 CNN MultiChoice Nominated Journalist/Reporter.
2011 BEFFTA Awards Nominated Best Magazine Of The Year.