Businessman Maithripala Lankeshwara, owner of Rathna Group, has shared the story of his journey from humble beginnings to acquiring what is widely described on social media as one of Sri Lanka’s most expensive vehicles — the Rolls-Royce Cullinan Series II.
In a detailed social media post, Lankeshwara said the purchase of the ultra-luxury SUV was not the result of sudden wealth, but the outcome of years of disciplined financial management, personal sacrifice, and sustained hard work.
He recalled growing up in a rural village in a financially constrained family and starting his working life at a small rice mill. Despite numerous challenges and setbacks, he gradually expanded his business operations through determination and consistent effort.
Reflecting on his early struggles, Lankeshwara shared a personal memory of taking his pregnant wife to hospital in a lorry because he did not own a vehicle at the time. He identified the lorry by its number plate — 27 Sri 8182 — describing it as a symbol of the hardships he endured while building his enterprise.
Lankeshwara said that owning the Cullinan today brings him what he described as “innocent happiness,” emphasising that it represents perseverance and long-term, goal-oriented effort rather than luck.
In a message to young people, he encouraged aspiring entrepreneurs to set clear goals, avoid unlawful or socially harmful activities, and work patiently towards success. He added that if someone else were to import an even more expensive vehicle in the future, he would be among the first to celebrate their achievement.
