## 📈 Remembering Dr. Raja de Silva: A Scientific Pioneer of Sri Lankan Archaeology

• Milestone Legacy: Celebrating the life and impact of Dr. Raja de Silva, Sri Lanka's foremost archaeologist and former Commissioner of Archaeology (1967–1979), who passed away after reaching a remarkable century of life. • Scientific Approach: Pioneered the application of natural sciences and chemistry to archaeology and historical conservation in Sri Lanka, replacing unverified folklore and cultural biases with empirical, testable physical evidence. • Sigiriya Reinterpretation: Radically challenged orthodox historical narratives by reidentifying the Sigiriya rock fortress as a major Mahayana Buddhist monastic complex rather than a secular royal palace, and identifying its famous frescoes as sacred depictions of Tara Devi. • Heroic Restoration: Spearheaded the globally celebrated 1967 rescue and chemical restoration of the Sigiriya frescoes following a malicious vandalism incident, collaborating with international conservation experts like Luciano Maranzi. • Prehistoric Discoveries: Expanded the island's historical horizons by initiating systematic excavations at key megalithic sites including Ibbankatuwa and Pomparippu, proving the existence of an advanced, trading prehistoric society predating chronicle-based timelines.