Our Foundation

Reviving Sri Lanka’s Traditional Food Wisdom

Rishi Ahara is a righteous food initiative dedicated to bringing traditional Sri Lankan ingredients, recipes and ethical food practices into modern everyday life.

A Healthier Nation and a Righteous Food Economy
We envision a future where traditional food knowledge is protected, local farmers are supported and families have better access to diverse and responsibly prepared food.

Rishi Ahara aims to build a stronger connection between:

The farmer, the ingredient, the meal and the consumer.

Who We Are

Rishi Ahara operates through the Dharma Vijaya Foundation in Colombo 07.

The initiative promotes wholesome local food from farm to plate by connecting traditional knowledge, responsible agriculture, careful preparation and modern convenience.

Our work is inspired by the “Sil Suwandai – Hela Diviyai” Piriven and Vihara Villages National Programme.

Our Mission

Giving attention to how food is cultivated, processed and prepared

Our Vision

Our Food Philosophy

More Than Taste

Rishi Ahara recognises three important qualities of food:

  • Nutritional Properties

Essential nutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins and minerals.

  • Medicinal Properties

Naturally occurring plant compounds traditionally valued as part of a diverse diet.

  • Functional Properties

Plant fibre, prebiotics and beneficial microorganisms associated with normal digestive functions.

These three qualities are identified in the Rishi educational presentation as key properties of food.

From Farm to Plate

Responsibility at Every Stage

We believe food quality depends on the entire journey:

Agriculture → Selection → Storage → Processing → Cooking → Plate

Rishi Ahara encourages responsible cultivation, careful handling, hygienic preparation and thoughtful serving.

The presentation describes food as a connected process involving agriculture, processing, cooking and the human body.

Tradition

Our Values

Compassion

Responsibility

Honesty

Making Traditional Food Part of Modern Life

Our mission is to:

  • Revive Sri Lanka’s traditional food heritage

  • Encourage the use of local rice, grains, vegetables, fruits, herbs and spices

  • Make traditional food practical for modern families

  • Support ethical and responsible food preparation

  • Promote food education and dietary diversity

  • Create opportunities for local farmers and communities

Respecting people, animals and the natural environment

Providing clear information about ingredients, products and prices

Protecting valuable Sri Lankan food knowledge.

Our Guiding Principle

Why Rishi Ahara Matters

Sri Lanka possesses a rich variety of traditional foods, yet many remain underused.

The Rishi educational presentation states that more than 3,000 food varieties are underutilised, while only around 30 varieties are commonly consumed by most people.

Rishi Ahara seeks to bring these forgotten ingredients back to everyday tables through products, recipes, catering and education.

Deepen Your Understanding

Explore the science behind bio-functional nutrition and our commitment to traditional wisdom.