The sanctuary of supplication Daily News (via HT Media Ltd.)
Today Muslims worldwide celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr after a month of fasting. To thousands of Muslims in Sri Lanka the word ‘Ketchimalai’ is spoken with pious veneration. History shows the early Muslim traders of Arab origin had landed on the shores of Beruwela. Gradually these traders engaged in business and assimilated into the local community, living in peace. During that ancient era, the island was referred to as Serendib, and was a popular trading hub, the Maritime Provinces being the venues for vibrant trade. The ancient mosque on the hill of Ketchimalai has stood for almost 800 years, rising majestically in the backdrop of the ocean. It is a cultural icon of Beruwela.