Apr 02, 2025
Exploring Cultural Parallels: Watanabe Keiko Shares Her Reflections on Sri Lanka and Japan
During a recent visit to Lanka Nippon BizTech Institute (LNBTI), Ms. Keiko Watanabe, a cultural expert from Japan, spoke passionately about the deep cultural connections she has observed between Sri Lanka and Japan. Her insights shed light on subtle but profound similarities that reflect the spiritual and traditional foundations of both societies.
One of the most striking parallels, according to Ms. Watanabe, lies in the traditional Sri Lankan practice of Ayurveda. She noted that this ancient approach to health and well-being is grounded in harmony with nature and the human body—a philosophy that echoes Japan’s own deep respect for nature, found in practices such as traditional Japanese medicine and the concept of balance in everyday life.
Ms. Watanabe also highlighted the shared value of respecting elders and those in positions of authority, which is deeply embedded in both cultures. In Japan, this is expressed through carefully structured language and social behavior, while in Sri Lanka, the custom of honoring those above you is similarly visible in family and social structures.
Another unique point she brought up was the Sri Lankan greeting “Ayubowan”, which conveys a wish for long life and well-being. This, she suggested, carries a spiritual resonance similar to the way Japanese greetings convey thoughtfulness and connection.
Interestingly, Ms. Watanabe mentioned a surprising observation made by Professor Shinzo Fukunaga, a Japanese literature specialist and researcher of Manyo-shu and ancient Japanese texts such as the Kojiki. Joining the discussion via Zoom from Tokyo, Professor Fukunaga reflected on the similar tone and pace of the Sri Lankan national anthem and the Japanese national anthem “Kimigayo.” Both anthems, he pointed out, are composed with solemnity and grace, reflecting a shared cultural emphasis on peace, longevity, and national pride.
After her visit to LNBTI and a personal meeting with Professor Ananda Kumara, Ms. Watanabe expressed her admiration for the university.
“Listening to Professor Kumara, I was reminded again of how wonderful this university is,” she said. “I could also feel the strong hopes and dreams of the students’ families. We live in a world where the name of a university alone doesn’t guarantee success—what matters is having foresight and vision. That is something I truly sensed at LNBTI.”
Her comments not only highlighted the importance of cross-cultural understanding but also underscored the forward-looking mission of LNBTI, where tradition, education, and global perspectives meet.
