Video Description

 Walawe River

             From Balangoda we can see this beautiful river when we pass Kalthota towards Welioya. With the construction of the Kuragala Rajamaha Temple, the number of local tourists visiting this river has increased. This water stream that originates from a small rivulet in Samanala Lake is known as Walawe Ganga. This waterfall that comes past the Hunugal Pond and Dust Falls is known as the Walave River in Kalthota area. Due to the purity and clarity of the water, the water flow of the well is able to impress anyone who sees it. This valley river provides water for the entire Kuburu Yaya crop in the Kalthota - Medabedda area. No matter how dry and harsh the climate is, the water in the river does not flow.

Photograph Description

Diyaluma Waterfall

     Diyaluma Waterfall is the second-highest waterfall in Sri Lanka, located near Koslanda in the Badulla District. Standing at 220 meters (720 feet), it cascades down a rock face, creating a stunning view. The waterfall is known for its natural pools at the top, offering visitors a unique opportunity to swim while enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Diyaluma is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers.

Mihintale Temple

        Mihintale Temple is an ancient Buddhist site in Sri Lanka, located near Anuradhapura. It is regarded as the birthplace of Buddhism in the country, as it is believed that the Indian monk Mahinda met King Devanampiyatissa here in the 3rd century BCE and introduced Buddhism. This stupas, monasteries, and ancient structures, along with a staircase leading up to the summit, offering stunning views and spiritual significance.

Sri Pada

          ශ්‍රී පාදය (Sri Pada), also known as Adam's Peak, is a sacred mountain located in central Sri Lanka. Rising to a height of 2,243 meters (7,359 feet), it is revered by multiple religious communities, including Buddhists, Hindus, Christians, and Muslims. At the summit lies a large footprint-shaped indentation, which Buddhists believe to be the footprint of the Buddha, Hindus associate with Lord Shiva, and some Christians and Muslims believe to be that of Adam or St. Thomas. The mountain is a popular pilgrimage site, especially during the pilgrimage season from December to May.

Kuragala Temple

          Kuragala is an ancient Buddhist cave temple complex in Sri Lanka, located in the Ratnapura District. The site dates back over 2,000 years and was initially used as a meditation retreat for Buddhist monks. Kuragala is known for its series of rock caves, inscriptions, and ruins from different periods, including the early Anuradhapura era. In addition to its Buddhist significance, the site is also associated with ancient human settlements and contains evidence of prehistoric habitation.

Nelligala International Buddhist Center

       Nelligala International Buddhist Center, commonly known as Nelligala Temple, is a prominent Buddhist temple located atop Nelligala hill in Muruthalawa, Sri Lanka. Renowned for its breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, it has become a significant place of worship and meditation for devotees as well as a popular tourist destination. The temple is known for its serene environment and the majestic statues of the Buddha, creating a tranquil atmosphere for spiritual reflection. Established relatively recently compared to other ancient temples in Sri Lanka, Nelligala is also notable for its modern architecture, blending traditional Buddhist elements with contemporary design. Its elevated location offers spectacular views, including sights of the Alagalla and Hanthana mountain ranges.

Jethavanaramaya

         ජේතවනාරාමය දාගැබ (Jethavanaramaya Stupa) is an ancient Buddhist stupa located in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. Built during the reign of King Mahasen (276–303 AD), it is one of the tallest and largest brick structures in the world. The stupa was constructed to honor a relic of the Buddha and served as a significant religious center during ancient times. It reflects the architectural and engineering expertise of ancient Sri Lanka and remains a major symbol of the island's Buddhist heritage.

Ruwanwelisaya

         රුවන්වැලිසෑය (Ruwanwelisaya), also known as the Mahathupa, is a renowned stupa in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. It was built by King Dutugemunu around 140 B.C. and is considered one of the most important Buddhist shrines in the country. The stupa symbolizes the profound spiritual significance of Buddhism and enshrines relics of the Buddha. Its architectural grandeur, with a hemispherical dome, has made it a symbol of Sri Lanka's rich cultural and religious heritage.

News Analysis (Fake & Real))

 

What is the News?

        News refers to information about current events, developments, or important happenings that are typically shared through various media channels, such as newspapers, television, radio, or the internet. It aims to inform the public about local, national, or international issues and events, often covering a wide range of topics, including politics, business, culture, sports, and more. News can be reported in various formats, such as articles, broadcasts, and reports, and is considered essential for keeping people informed and aware of what's happening around them.

Fake News

      "Fake news" refers to false or misleading information presented as if it were genuine news. It is often designed to deceive or mislead readers, usually to influence public opinion or obscure the truth. Fake news can take many forms, including fabricated stories, misleading headlines, or content that exaggerates or distorts facts. It spreads quickly, particularly on social media platforms, and can cause confusion, harm reputations, and even shape political and social narratives. 

 Examples for Fake News

1. Pizzagate (2016)

      This conspiracy theory falsely claimed that a child-trafficking ring involving high-profile politicians was being run out of a Washington, D.C., pizzeria. Despite being completely untrue, the story went viral, leading to real-world consequences when a man showed up at the restaurant with a gun to "investigate" the claims.

2. COVID-19 5G Conspiracy (2020)

       During the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, a fake news theory spread online claiming that 5G technology was responsible for the virus. This led to panic, protests, and even the destruction of 5G towers in some countries, despite there being no scientific basis for the claim.

3. 2016 U.S. Election: Pope Endorses Donald Trump

          A widely shared fake news article claimed that Pope Francis had endorsed Donald Trump for president during the 2016 U.S. elections. This story was entirely fabricated but still went viral, influencing public opinion during the campaign.

Real News

      "Real news" refers to accurate, verified, and objective information presented by trustworthy sources. It is based on facts, credible evidence, and thorough reporting, often adhering to journalistic standards of ethics, including impartiality, transparency, and accountability. Real news aims to inform the public about current events, issues, and developments without distortion, manipulation, or bias.

      This contrasts with "fake news," which spreads misinformation, disinformation, or misleading content for various motives, such as political or financial gain.

Examples for Real News

01.Escalation in Ukraine: The war between Russia and Ukraine continues to intensify, with Russia recently targeting Ukrainian energy infrastructure. The conflict, now in its second year, remains a key international issue, with rising concerns over nuclear threats from various geopolitical actors including Russia, North Korea, and others.

02.United Nations Summit of the Future: Later this month, world leaders will gather at the UN in New York for the Summit of the Future. This event will focus on reforming global institutions like the UN Security Council to better address 21st-century challenges such as climate change, nuclear proliferation, and artificial intelligence. Key reforms will likely include better representation for Africa and other underrepresented regions​.

03.Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza: The situation in Gaza remains dire as aid workers struggle to deliver essential supplies amid an ongoing blockade and targeted attacks by Israeli forces. The humanitarian crisis is deepening, with widespread shortages of food, medicine, and other necessities. International organizations are calling for immediate action to prevent further devastation​.

The Differences between Real News and Fake News

01.Accuracy and Facts

Real News: Based on verified facts, credible sources, and research. Professional journalists follow strict editorial standards to ensure accuracy.

Fake News: Often relies on misinformation, exaggerated or fabricated details, and does not prioritize accuracy.

02.Source Credibility

Real News: Published by established news outlets or organizations with a reputation for credibility. Reporters are accountable and often follow ethical guidelines.

Fake News: Comes from unverified or anonymous sources, websites with no journalistic reputation, or social media. It often lacks traceable authors or reliable evidence.

03.Intent:

Real News: Aims to inform the public, educate, and present a balanced view of events.

Fake News: Often has ulterior motives, such as political agendas, profit through sensationalism, or misleading readers for influence or attention.

04.Verification Process

Real News: Undergoes editorial scrutiny, fact-checking, and source verification before being published.

Fake News: Rarely undergoes any verification or editorial process and may be published quickly to stir reactions.

05.Emotional Appeal

Real News: May evoke emotions but primarily presents information in a measured, objective tone.

Fake News: Frequently uses emotional manipulation, sensational headlines, or clickbait to provoke strong reactions or viral sharing.