The Heartbeat of Kiribathgoda: Fabric, Flavours, and Folklore
A Narrative from 1975
Where’s the local hangout hotspot? Nelson’s isn’t just your average fabric emporium. It’s the brainchild of two enterprising brothers, lads from Kiribathgoda, blossoming into a lively social nexus. Here, afternoons are alive with camaraderie as dreamers from all walks of life converge, bound by a shared yearning for leisurely chats, a puff of smoke, and the spirit of collaboration. It’s not just a place, it’s a community where even a newcomer with a flair for the unconventional can immerse in the warm embrace of inclusivity.
What’s the fashion statement in Kiribathgoda? When the sun reigns supreme, the attire in Kiribathgoda is all about comfort and breathability. The aspiring youth flaunted bell bottoms, while the elders stuck to sarongs and trousers. Women grace the streets in sarees and wraps. Footwear is mostly casual, with slippers being the norm, though some men pair shoes with trousers, and the rebellious youth occasionally don slippers to defy conventions. The town’s tapestry is a vibrant mix of young and old, some in shirts, others bare-chested, and women adding splashes of colour with their sarees.
Where to eat in town? The Prince Hotel is the town’s culinary crucible. More than a mere eatery, it’s a social stew where affordable teas and treats attract a diverse clientele. Amidst the hum of conversation, waiters in starched sarongs and shirts dish out hearty curries and rice. Even those light on cash, particularly the youth, flock here for a smoke and banter, making the Prince Hotel a nourishing hub for both belly and soul.
Can you tune into the local music vibes? The airwaves of Kiribathgoda resonate with the pure tones of Sinhala music. While the town’s youth might venture to the capital for a taste of pop in both English and Sinhala, the local scene remains undisturbed by the rhythms of contemporary beats. It’s a place untouched by the fame of musical prodigies, preserving the essence of its cultural soundscape.
What’s with the name ‘Kiribathgoda’? The tale behind Kiribathgoda’s name is wrapped in mystery and charm. ‘Kiribath’ signifies the beloved ‘milk rice,’ while ‘Goda’ hints at abundance. Together, they paint a picture of plentiful milk rice. Perhaps, once upon a time, a roadside vendor’s milk rice became the talk of the town, weaving her legacy into the very name of Kiribathgoda. Whether steeped in history or the whispers of legend, this quaint story reflects the town’s rich cultural heritage and offers a whimsical nod to its taxonomy.
What were the town’s most challenging aspects? Amidst the bustling streets of Kiribathgoda, a shadow loomed over the local commerce. A handful of formidable figures, known colloquially as gangsters, cast a pall of fear among the shopkeepers with their demands for protection money. Business owners found themselves grappling with this unwelcome menace. The town also witnessed the rise of street factions, with the youth from the neighbouring village, Dalugama, often at the centre of these conflicts. Fuelled by territorial pride, these altercations sometimes escalated to violent encounters, a stark contrast to the town’s peaceful facade and a testament to the challenges Kiribathgoda faced.
Are there any notable landmarks? Kiribathgoda is home to several distinctive landmarks, with the bus halt particularly noteworthy. This vibrant hub marks the final stop for numerous buses from the capital, providing a place for drivers and conductors to rest before they embark on their return trips. The junction is a critical point for the Ceylon Transport Board and school buses, marking the beginning of their journeys and establishing Kiribathgoda as an essential travel hub. This depot is a key transition point for commuters, who often switch from urban to regional routes.
In addition to the bus depot, Kiribathgoda boasts a pair of tailoring shops, Prince Tailors and Pettah Tailors, both popular among the youth. The area also features a YMBA, akin to a YMCA, a Buddhist stupa, and a cinema that screens various English and local movies. A notable petrol station is also present, where fuel was once as cheap as 2.50 Rupees per gallon.
Subscribe to my stories https://djayasi.medium.com/subscribe
