The
story of the Siddhalepa Group of Companies goes back
150 years to the middle of the 19th century. In Galle,
a small town on the southern coast of Sri Lanka lived
Hettigoda Gamage Don Carolis de
Silva, an agriculturist by profession. His talents
however, were multifaceted. He excelled in the art of
Astrology and was also well known as a skilled Ayurvedic
physician. Of his two sons, Hendrick De Silva Hettigoda
followed in his father's footsteps and studied Ayurveda
and Astrology, while his younger son, the late Most
Ven. Dr. Walpola Rahula, rose to fame as a world-renowned
Buddhist scholar.
Hendrick De Silva Hettigoda
after studying Ayurveda and Astrology from his father
proceeded to India to continue his studies under the
Yogis (religious mendicants) in their ashrams at the
foothills of the Himalayas. He spent over 15 years in
India perfecting the art of Ayurveda and Astrology.
An expert in the field of Astrology, he was elected
President of the Astrological Society of Sri Lanka,
at that time.
Victor
Hettigoda, the Chairman of the Hettigoda Group
of Companies was born in 1937 in Kanake, Matara, Sri
Lanka. Victor received his education at Rahula College,
Matara. On leaving school he joined his father as a
"student helper" to pursue the family profession
of Ayurveda Medicine. Victor spent nearly 12 years learning
the art of Ayurveda Medicine poring over "Ola Leaf"
manuscripts and ancient books on the subject.
Victor Hettigoda's untiring efforts and devotion to
Ayurveda won him accolades from his father. As a reward
for his hard work, the secret formula of
"Siddhalepa"-
the wonder balm - was disclosed to him. He had a burning
desire for independence and achievement but was encumbered
by limited financial resources. However, an initial
investment from a trusted relative in 1971 helped him
commence his venture.
Victor Hettigoda's dynamism knew no limits. He travelled
to every remote village in Sri Lanka to promote the
Siddhalepa Balm. His tireless efforts were ultimately
rewarded. Today, his Company is a resounding success
with a global distribution network.
In recognition of Dr. Hettigoda's colossal contribution
to the field of Ayurveda Medicine and his services to
the Industrial community in particular, Dr. Hettigoda
was vested with the prestigious award of
"Deshabandu"
by the President of Sri Lanka in May 1990. The "Vishava
Prasadini" award was conferred on him by the Prime
Minister in April 1996 for his outstanding contribution
and service to the Ayurveda Industry in Sri Lanka. In
addition, numerous journals and organizations have feted
this outstanding entrepreneur. These include -
