Kalmunai

The name "Kalmunai" is believed to have originated from the Tamil words "Kal" and "Munai," which respectively mean "stone" and "corner." This name refers to the geographical location of the city, as it is situated at a corner where the land meets the sea. Kalmunai's strategic position along the eastern coast of Sri Lanka has played a significant role in shaping its history and culture.[6]

Kalmunai has a rich historical background that dates back centuries. The region has been influenced by various civilizations, including the ancient Tamil kingdoms, colonial powers, and the indigenous Muslim community. Over time, Kalmunai became an important trading post due to its coastal location, facilitating maritime trade routes with other countries.[5]

During the Sri Lankan civil war, Kalmunai experienced the devastating effects of the conflict. The city faced numerous challenges, including forced disappearances, civil unrest, and violence targeted at local civilians. Despite these hardships, the resilient spirit of the people of Kalmunai helped them rebuild and regain stability.

In 2004, Kalmunai was severely impacted by the Indian Ocean tsunami. The natural disaster resulted in the loss of many lives and caused extensive damage to the city's infrastructure and property. However, through the collective efforts of the community and external support, Kalmunai managed to recover and rebuild itself, emerging as a symbol of resilience and hope.

Kalmunai is situated on the eastern coast of Sri Lanka, bordered by the Indian Ocean to the east. The city is characterized by its stunning coastal landscapes, pristine beaches, and panoramic views. The strategic location of Kalmunai has contributed to its historical significance as a trading hub and a center of cultural exchange.

Kalmunai MC covers an area of 2740.08 hectares (Data Source _ Survey Department).[7] To the north of Kalmunai lies the village of Periyaneelavanai, which serves as the border between Ampara and Batticaloa Districts. To the south, the city is connected to the suburb of Karaitivu.[8] Kalmunai's geographical features, including its proximity to the ocean and neighboring villages, have shaped its identity and provided opportunities for economic growth.[9]

• Population - 99,893 [2012] – final census result [10]
• Population Density - 4,343/km² [2012][10]
• Annual Population Change - 0.51% [2001 → 2012][10]

Kalmunai is known for its diverse population, with a significant majority being Muslims.[11] The city is one of the few municipalities in Sri Lanka where Muslims constitute the majority. The Muslim community has played a crucial role in shaping the city's cultural heritage and economic development. The harmonious coexistence of different ethnic and religious groups is a hallmark of Kalmunai, fostering a sense of unity and multiculturalism.

Kalmunai is governed by a system of administrative divisions that reflect the diverse characteristics and neighborhoods within the city. The main divisions of Kalmunai include:[12][13]

• Kalmunai Central: This division encompasses Kalmunai Town, Kalmunai Kudy, Natpaddimunai, and Chenaikudiruppu. Kalmunai Town serves as the primary commercial and administrative center of the city, catering to various needs of the residents.
• Sainthamaruthu: Located in the southern part of Kalmunai, Sainthamaruthu is a prominent residential area with its own distinct community and cultural activities. It has its separate division to ensure effective governance and administration.
• Pandiruppu: Situated in the eastern part of the city, Pandiruppu is known for its picturesque beauty and peaceful surroundings. It functions as a separate administrative division within Kalmunai.
• Maruthamunai: Maruthamunai is a bustling neighborhood in Kalmunai, offering a range of amenities and services to its residents. It is part of the larger administrative framework of the city.
• Periyaneelavanai: This village is located to the north of Kalmunai and acts as a border between Ampara and Batticaloa Districts. It plays a crucial role in connecting the two regions and is considered an integral part of Kalmunai's administration.

In addition to these divisions based on geographical locations, Kalmunai also has administrative divisions that cater to specific communities:[12]

• Kalmunai Muslim Division: This division, primarily centered around Kalmunai Central, is dedicated to serving the Muslim community residing in the city. It focuses on addressing the specific needs and concerns of the Muslim population.[14]
• Kalmunai Tamil Division: The Tamil Division is responsible for governing the northern part of Kalmunai, primarily inhabited by Tamil Hindus. It ensures the provision of services and facilities tailored to the requirements of the Tamil-speaking population.[15]
• Sainthamaruthu Division: As a separate division within Kalmunai, Sainthamaruthu is dedicated to addressing the administrative needs of the residents in the southern part of the city, emphasizing the unique characteristics and requirements of the area.[16]

These administrative divisions, both geographic and community-based, work together to ensure effective governance and provide services to the residents of Kalmunai, fostering a sense of community and enhancing the overall development of the city.

Kalmunai serves as a major economic hub in the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka. The city's economy is diverse and robust, with key sectors including trade, agriculture, fishing, manufacturing, and services. Kalmunai's strategic coastal location has facilitated international trade, attracting investments and contributing to the city's economic growth.:[3][5]

The commercial center of Kalmunai Town is home to a vibrant marketplace where a wide range of goods and services are traded. The city's agricultural sector primarily focuses on rice cultivation, horticulture, and fishing, utilizing the fertile land and coastal resources. Kalmunai also hosts various industries, including garment manufacturing, food processing, and construction, providing employment opportunities for the local population.[3][5]

Kalmunai prides itself on its well-developed infrastructure, which caters to the needs of its residents and supports economic activities. The city enjoys a reliable electricity supply and modern telecommunications networks, ensuring efficient connectivity for both personal and business purposes.

The road network in Kalmunai is extensive and well-maintained, enabling smooth transportation within the city and to neighboring regions. Public transportation, including buses and auto-rickshaws, provides convenient options for commuting.

The city boasts a range of essential facilities and amenities, including hospitals, schools, playgrounds, and parks. Kalmunai is particularly renowned for its hospital services, with the Ashraff Memorial Hospital and Kalmunai Base Hospital serving as prominent healthcare institutions in the region.

Furthermore, Kalmunai is known for its beautiful beaches, offering recreational opportunities for residents and attracting visitors. The presence of parks and green spaces contributes to the overall quality of life in the city.

Overall, Kalmunai's well-planned infrastructure and access to essential services contribute to the comfort, convenience, and well-being of its residents, making it an attractive place to live and work.[3][5]

Kalmunai has a well-established transportation system centered around a network of roads, including the A4 highway that connects the city to Colombo and other major towns. The city serves as a hub for east to west bus transportation, providing convenient and reliable options for commuting within and outside Kalmunai.

The Kalmunai bus station is a vital transit point where buses arrive and depart, ensuring seamless connectivity to various destinations in Sri Lanka. While the city does not have railway facilities, the extensive road network and efficient bus services meet the transportation needs of residents and visitors.

Buses remain the primary mode of transportation in Kalmunai, offering affordable fares and regular schedules. The city's transportation system is continuously improving to accommodate the growing population, with efforts focused on enhancing bus services, upgrading road infrastructure, and exploring opportunities for further connectivity.

Overall, Kalmunai's transportation system ensures accessibility and convenience for its residents, contributing to the smooth functioning of the city and facilitating travel to other parts of Sri Lanka.[3][5]

Kalmunai offers a range of educational opportunities to its residents. The city is home to numerous schools, both public and private, providing education from primary to secondary levels.

Kalmunai has several national schools known for their academic excellence and comprehensive educational programs.

In addition to national schools, Kalmunai hosts well-known institutions such as Carmel Fatima College and Zahira college.

Higher education options are also available in Kalmunai, with private colleges offering undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various fields.[3][5]

Kalmunai has a vibrant sports culture, with cricket and football taking center stage. While cricket remains the most popular sport in the city, football has also gained significant recognition, boasting skilled and famous players.

The city has a strong cricket and football tradition, with local clubs and tournaments providing opportunities for aspiring athletes to showcase their talents. Although Kalmunai may not have produced national-level cricketers, the sport enjoys a dedicated following among the community.

In addition to cricket and football, Kalmunai actively participates in other sports such as volleyball and athletics. Football, in particular, has a passionate fan base and is known for its talented players. The Santhankeni Unity Play Ground serves as a versatile venue for both football and cricket matches, providing enthusiasts with the opportunity to engage in their favorite sports.

Furthermore, the MHM Ashraff Memorial Public Playground in Sainthamaruthu is primarily dedicated to cricket. It serves as a hub for cricketing activities, offering a suitable environment for players to develop their skills and contribute to the growth of the game.

The availability of sports facilities, including stadiums and playgrounds, reflects Kalmunai's commitment to promoting a healthy and active lifestyle among its residents. These facilities play a vital role in nurturing sporting talent, fostering community engagement, and encouraging physical fitness.[3][5]

The culture of Kalmunai city is a vibrant tapestry woven from the traditions of various ethnic groups. While the Muslim community plays a prominent role in shaping the cultural landscape, Kalmunai also celebrates the diversity by embracing Hindu and Buddhist festivals.

Islamic festivals like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are joyfully observed, showcasing the community's rich traditions, delectable cuisine, and strong values. In addition, Kalmunai's inclusive spirit extends to the celebration of Hindu festivals, fostering unity among different religious groups.

The city's cultural diversity is further highlighted through its music, dance, art, and cuisine. Traditional performances influenced by different ethnic communities infuse Kalmunai's cultural scene with vibrancy. The local cuisine is a fusion of Muslim and Sri Lankan flavors, offering a delightful culinary experience.

Overall, Kalmunai's culture thrives on shared celebrations, coexistence, and a deep respect for the customs of various religions, making it a culturally vibrant and harmonious city.[3][5]

Kalmunai's strategic location along the eastern coast of Sri Lanka has contributed to its international relations. The city has been an important trading center, facilitating economic exchanges with neighboring countries and beyond. The cultural diversity of Kalmunai has also fostered cultural and diplomatic ties with different nations, promoting understanding and cooperation.

At the national level, Kalmunai plays a crucial role as a major city in the Eastern Province. The city's administration collaborates with the central government to implement development projects, improve infrastructure, and address the needs of the local population.[3][5]

• An Historical Relation of the Island Ceylon