My fascination with the world of shells began in 2006, sparked by a transformative visit to the coastal shell beds of Hungama and Bundala in Sri Lanka. This encounter ignited a passion within me, opening a new dimension in my understanding of archaeology and the stories hidden within these seemingly simple objects.
Fueled by this newfound curiosity, I dedicated my BA dissertation to the meticulous collection and analysis of all available literature – historical, archaeological, and ethnological – relating to shells in Sri Lanka. This endeavor culminated in the publication of a concise volume by the Ministry of Environment in 2014, marking an early milestone in my academic journey.
My interest deepened during my Master's research in 2015, where I delved into the nuanced task of distinguishing shell middens (ancient refuse heaps) from naturally occurring shell beds. This work laid the groundwork for my doctoral studies, which have further expanded my knowledge and expertise in the field of archaeomalacology.
Through my research, I've come to appreciate the invaluable role that shells play in reconstructing past environments, human behaviors, and cultural practices. Shells serve as silent witnesses to the passage of time, carrying within their intricate forms a wealth of information about the ecosystems they inhabited and the people who interacted with them.
My journey has been one of continuous learning and discovery, fueled by a deep passion for unraveling the stories that shells whisper to us from the past. As an archaeomalacologist, I am privileged to contribute to the growing body of knowledge surrounding these fascinating objects, and I am committed to sharing the wonders of this field with others.
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