Chandraguptha Thenuwara, an artist and activist, known for his unapologetic critique of successive governments. Thenuwara was a witness to the horrors of Black July, the pogrom that left thousands of Tamils murdered in 1983, and explains why he memorialises it every year with an exhibition in Colombo. His work, deeply influenced by the events of that period, has evolved from creating joyful paintings to producing politically charged pieces that memorialise the victims of violence. One of Thenuwara’s most notable contributions is his annual exhibition that commemorates the events of Black July, a reminder of the unspoken atrocities that remain uncommemorated. "I always remind them what happened, not to happen again," he states, underscoring the importance of memory in his work. His art is a form of resistance—challenging the status quo, questioning power, and calling for a society where democracy and respect for others' opinions can flourish.

Venerable Walatara Sobhita Nayaka Thero is the chief monk at the Galwadugoda temple. He was proud of the kalu gal or black stonework in his beautiful Vihare. But also spoke enthusiastically about his impressive collection of vintage vinyl records and why it is not at odds with him being a monk.

D.S. Amarasekara, a retired schoolteacher, talks about discovering the historical roots of his village of Baddegama.

Mrs. Haniah Sultanbawa did not “just carry on” and “get married to somebody” like other young Muslim girls of her time even though she was brought up to do so. In 1960, she became the first Muslim woman from the Southern Province to graduate from a university.

Parakrama Dahanayake recalls his earlier role as private secretary to his late uncle and former Prime Minister Wijeyananda Dahanayake, one of Sri Lanka’s unique political characters, and reflects on his decision to finally enter local politics.

Mr. Reuben is a book lender from Pedlar Street and passionate about resurrecting his lending library.  He is also a well-remembered teacher and even now some policemen respectfully refrain from smoking in his presence. The tiniest of spaces across the road from his home is filled with many books that are now lying decaying and abandoned.

Mr. Thenuwara moved to Colombo from Galle in 1965 to work for Car Mart in Colombo. After that he decided to strike out on his own and finally ended up with a garage on Lauries Road specialising in fixing Volkswagen Beetles for their obsessive owners.