Page 201 - RUICHSS 2023 Proceeding

University of Ruhuna ISSN: 2706-0063
Matara, Sri Lanka

the Ceylon Civil Code of 1832, which favored Christianity while

marginalizing traditional marital and religious practices, amplified the
religious divide and exacerbated tensions among different faith communities

(Smith 2007: 128; Obeyesekere 2005: 42).

The repercussions of British colonialism resonate through the ages, evident in

the persisting challenges to inclusivity among Sri Lanka's diverse religious
groups (Nissan & Stirrat 1990: 275). Lingering tensions, distrust, and

disparities continue to cast shadows over the nation's religious landscape.

Furthermore, the imposition of a dominant language as a means of control
exacerbated existing divisions, stifling effective communication and hindering

communal understanding (Jayawardena 1970: 273; Ananda 2016: 94).

Addressing the enduring legacy of colonialism demands concerted efforts.
Acknowledgment of historical injustices and structural inequalities is the

initial imperative step (Kumar 2012: 186; de Silva 2019: 72). Education and

awareness initiatives can illuminate the impact of colonialism, fostering
empathy and interfaith understanding among religious communities

(Ratnayake 2020: 238). Encouraging the promotion of the native language as

a unifying force for communication and shared cultural appreciation can serve
as a bridge toward reconciliation (Fernando 2018 :15; Amarasinghe 2021:

405).

In summation, this study underscores the urgency of confronting historical
injustices and structural disparities that continue to marginalise specific
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