The Shias of Sri Lanka number no more than about 2,000, concentrated mostly in the east of the country around Kalkuda electorate in Batticaloa District; there are also some in Colombo, Kandy, akurana, Kalmunai as well. None of these were born into Shiaism, but have reverted after reasoning and research, especially after the 1979 Islamic revolution held in Iran.
Unfortunately, most of the Shia Muslims of Sri Lanka are suffering from great poverty as they haven’t proper job, income, education and residence too. But, as they are very strong in their beliefs, they weren’t deceived by the attractive projects and financial assistances of Wahabi people who are working by the direct fund of some of Middle East countries. Al-Hamdu Lillah.
Islamic revolution of Iran is the most important influence and fact in the rising number of Shia Muslims in Sri Lanka.