By: Isuru Parakrama
November 25, Colombo (LNW): Professor Atula Senaratne, a distinguished Geologist from the University of Peradeniya, has strongly advised against relying on myths and engaging in fruitless endeavours, following the recent excavation attempts near the Central Expressway construction site in the Wanduramba area of Veyangoda.
The search for alleged buried treasure, which gained public attention over the weekend, has been dismissed by Senaratne as a misguided effort rooted in folklore rather than scientific fact.
In his comments to the media, Prof. Senaratne highlighted the implausibility of the treasure-hunting claims, particularly the notion that treasures could be buried as deep as 40 to 50 feet below the surface.
He pointed out that there is no historical precedent or evidence to suggest that treasures were ever concealed at such depths, nor could they have been sealed with melted rocks, as some local myths suggest.
“There has never been a technology, either in the past or present, that would enable rocks to be melted or fused in such a manner,” he emphasised, criticising the fantasy surrounding treasure hunting.
Responding to ongoing speculation regarding the possibility of a treasure buried beneath the expressway reservation in Wanduramba, Prof. Senaratne dismissed the idea as unlikely.
While he acknowledged that signs of decaying rocks may sometimes be misinterpreted as evidence of hidden riches, he warned that pursuing such unsubstantiated claims could lead to a significant waste of time, money, and labour.
“Geologists only engage in archaeological surveys at the request of archaeologists, and we would advise against any attempts to excavate without scientific backing,” he remarked.
The professor further elaborated that while there may be historical sites or temples where relics or offerings have been buried, the likelihood of discovering such treasures underground is minimal.
“People’s belief in buried treasures, especially in temple sites or chethiyas, is steeped in myth, and the chances of finding anything significant are very low. In my opinion, those chasing these treasures are merely deceiving themselves,” he said.
With over four decades of experience in geology, Prof. Senaratne reiterated his long-standing stance that people should not rely on myths or folklore in their pursuit of material wealth.
“I have consistently urged against indulging in such exercises. These treasure hunts are nothing more than futile pursuits based on unfounded beliefs,” he concluded.
