Miss Tourism World 2023 pageant in Sri Lank
ලෝක සංචාරක රූ රැජින 2023 තරගය ශ්රී ලංකාවේ
pix by sudath malaweera
71st Anniversary of the National Day of the Arab Republic of Egypt
RUZAIK FAROOK
The 71st Anniversary of the National Day of the Arab Republic of Egypt was held at the Galle Face Hotel, Colombo on Friday July 21. It was held under the patronage of Ambassador of Egypt Maged Mosleh.
Chief Guest Minister of Plantation Industries and Minister of Industries Dr. Ramesh Pathirana along with Ambassador of Egypt Maged Mosleh cut the anniversary cake.
Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, Ministers of Environment Nazeer Ahamed, Minister of Ports, Shipping and Aviation Nimal Siripala de Silva, Minister of Education Susil Premajayantha, Leader of Opposition Sajith Premadasa, State Minister of Tourism Mrs. Diana Gamage, Members of Parliament, Diplomats and Embassy staff were also present.
The Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau Celebrates 100,000 Russian Tourist Arrivals at the Bandaranaike International Airport
The Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, in collaboration with the Airport and Aviation Services, organised a special ceremony to felicitate 100,000 Russian tourist arrivals through direct flights. The grand welcome was held at the BIA on 17th July 2023 where the passengers and crew arrived by Aeroflot flight from Moscow. A total of 100,298 Russian tourists have travelled to Sri Lanka via Aeroflot, Azur Air and Redwings since 10th October 2022 and as of July 2023, Russia has become the second highest source market for Sri Lanka. The Russian visitors and dignatories were given a warm welcome by the Tourism Information Centre officials of SLTPB and were escorted to the Lotus lounge with a special cultural performance by the colourful Kandyan dance troupe, which was highly enjoyed by the Russian tourists and crew alike.
The distinguished guests at this occasion included H.E Levan. Dzhagaryan, the Russian Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Mr. G.A Chandrasiri, Chairman of the Airport and Aviation Services, Mr. Thisum Jayasuriya, Chairman of the Sri Lanka Convention Bureau, Mr. Udayanga Weeratunga, the Former Sri Lankan Ambassador to Russia along with Mr.Thilak Weerasinghe , (LSR) , Mr. Rushan Fruard , (Exotic Holidays International), and Mr. Kamal Deshapriya (Ceylon My Dream) who contributed as Industry stakeholders for the direct flight operations. Russian Captain Ermolaev Vladmir Vlaimirovich and the crew of Aeroflot, together with Tourism and Aviation officials and Media also attended this event held at the Bandaranaike International Airport.
Mr. G.A Chandrasiri , the Chairman of Airport and Aviation Services made a welcome speech and noted that with the increase in Russian tourist arrivals to Sri Lanka, it conveyed that the hospitality, culture, and the traditional ways of the Sri Lankan people were accepted by Russians. He thanked all the Tourism and Aviation officials, and major Industry stakeholders who supported him in this endeavour. Mr. Thisum Jayasuriya , Chairman of the SLCB also spoke on the milestone, noting that Sri Lanka can now see a positive and remarkable change in the influx of Russian tourist arrivals on a daily basis. The Russian Captain, Ermolaev Vladmir Vlaimirovich, also expressed his thanks and gratitude to the hospitality shown by the Sri Lankan people and paid a glowing tribute to Sri Lanka as a key travel destination for Russian tourists, as he fondly recalled his own experiences as a tourist in Sri Lanka. The arrival of 100,000 Russian tourists is seen as a positive outcome of the continuous efforts carried out by Sri Lanka Tourism to promote Sri Lanka to the Russian market, thus strengthening bilateral and economical ties
between the two nations, making Russia one of the most successful economic contributors in enhancing Sri Lankan tourism. The positive message spread by the Russian passengers will further encourage more Russian tourists to visit Sri Lanka for their annual vacation.
Article by Nelum Buddhadasa
HI LIFE EXHIBITIONS RETURNS TO COLOMBO FOR THE SECOND TIME IN 2023!
The Hi Life Colombo exhibition has taken urban Colombo shoppers by storm with the latest collection of dazzling Indian fashions and designer wear. There was an array of opulent Lehengas, richly embroidered Shararas, Zardozi Salwar Suits, trendy denim Indo-Westerns, pants, dresses,sequinned Saris, costume jewellery, gem stone earrings, necklaces and home decor all crafted from the finest Indian materials.
The Hi Life Colombo was held on 22nd, 23rd & 24th July 2023 at the Cinnamon Lakeside, in Colombo 2 after the success of the exhibition that was held earlier this year in February. Shoppers which included a few celebrities such local cinema screen actress Sabeetha Perera, were able to choose from exquisite Designer Wear, Jewellery, Accessories, luxurious embroidered purses, beaded pouches and many more items perfect for those special occasions.
The HI LIFE Exhibitions allows shoppers to embark on a journey of timeless beauty with ethnic Indian fashion. It is a celebration of the rich heritage and vibrant traditions of India with the exquisite collections on display by top Indian designers. From intricately woven sarees to regal lehengas, from graceful shalwar suits to trendy Indo-Western styles, the apparel showcased the diversity and splendour of Indian attire. Each piece tells a story of craftsmanship and artistry, passed down through generations.
Article by Nelum Buddhadasa
Navy athlete Gayanthika Abeyrathne wins bronze medal in 1500m at 25th Asian Athletics Championships in Thailand
Woman Petty Officer Gayanthika Abeyrathne of the Sri Lanka Navy today (12th July 2023) made her country proud by winning a bronze medal in women’s 1500m at the 25th Asian Athletics Championships in Thailand. The Asian Athletics Championships is being held at the National Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand.
Woman Petty Officer Abeyrathne finished the race third, with a time of 4 minute and 14.39 seconds, bringing a lot of credit to the Navy and motherland.
Meanwhile, she is expected to contest in the women’s 800m at 25th Asian Athletics Championships as well.
Newly appointed Commander of the Air Force calls on Commander of the Navy
The newly appointed Commander of the Air Force, Air Marshal Udeni Rajapaksa called on the Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy, Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera at the Navy Headquarters today (13th July 2023).
The visiting Air Force Chief was received by Commander Western Naval Area, Rear Admiral Suresh De Silva at the portals of the Navy Headquarters. Thereupon, he was accorded a Guard of Honour in precision with naval tradition, before the Commander of the Navy introduced the Board of Management of the Sri Lanka Navy to the Commander of the Air Force.
Air Marshal Udeni Rajapaksa assumed his role as the 19th Commander of the Sri Lanka Air Force on 30th June 2023. This turned out to be his maiden official visit to the Navy Headquarters, after his ascension to the pinnacle of his career. During the ensuing discussion, Commander of the Navy pledged his support to the newly appointed Commander of the Air Force and extended best wishes.
The official interaction between them drew to a close with an exchange of mementoes, marking the importance of this occasion.
Rusan Fyroze, CEO of Siraj Finance UAE contributes LKR 500,000 to Zahira College Football Team Tour to Malaysia.
RUZAIK FAROOK
Rusan Fyroze, CEO of Siraj Finance Pjsc, Abu Dhabi, UAE, has made a contribution of LKR 500,000 to the Zahira College Football Team Tour to Malaysia.
The donation was made to Principal Trizviey Marrikar at the College premises recently in the presence of Naina Mohamed, Chairman of the Board of Governors’ Sports Sub-Committee, T. J. Cuncheer, M. A. Nislan, President, and M. Z. Infiyaz, Secretary, of the Batch of 87.
Rusan is a member of the Batch of 87 and was introduced to the Principal by Ramshan Cuncheer. He is a businessman in the UAE. His donation will be a great help to the football team as it is preparing for their tour to Malaysia.
The Principal thanked Rusan for his generous donation and expressed his gratitude to Ramshan Cuncheer for introducing him. He also said the donation would be a great boost to the football team which is scheduled to leave for Malaysia shortly.
Iran – Sri Lanka Children’s Friendship Week Launched
RUZAIK FAROOK
Iran Cultural Center and Colombo Public Library jointly organized Iran and Sri Lanka Children’s Friendship Week was held at the Public Library Children Section on July Tuesday 11th.
Large number of various school children were take part the art, literature, drama, game, movie show and workshops.
Buddhasasana, Culture and Religious Affairs Minister Vidura Wickramanayake was present as chief guest at the opening ceremony and view the children’s activities.
Cultural Counsellor of Iran Cultural Centre Dr. B. Moazami Goodarzi , Chief of Economic and Consular Section K. Soheil, Chief of Political Section Seyyed Mostafa Hashemi and Chief Librarian of Colombo Public Library Waruni Gagabadaarachchi were also present at this ceremony.
ALUMNI MEMBERS OF ANANDA COLLEGE FELICITATE THE ALUMNUS, NEW COMMANDER OF THE AIR FORCE
Old Anandians’ Professional Forum (OAPF) and Old Anandians’ Sports Club (OASC), in adherence to its tradition of acknowledging individuals who have attained the highest levels of recognition and accomplishment in society, paid the utmost honour to an alumnus and the newly appointed 19th Commander of the Air Force, Air Marshal Udeni Rajapaksa. The distinguished gathering took place at Hilton Colombo yesterday (05 July 2023) under the guidance of Ananda College alumnus, the President of the OAPF and OASC, as well as the incumbent Secretary to the Ministry of Defence, General Kamal Guneratne (Retd).
The felicitation ceremony featured an impressive assembly, including the present Principal of Ananda College, Mr. Lal Dissanayake, members from the Ananda College Old Boys Association, Old Anandians’ Professional Forum and Old Anandians’ Sports Club.
A senior member of the Old Anandians’ Professional Forum, Mr. Mahinda De Lanerolle, commenced the event with a welcome note. Subsequently, General Kamal Guneratne (Retd), delivered a speech signifying the Ananda College’s history of producing exemplary individuals who serve the country in esteemed positions. General Guneratne expressed immense pride and inspiration in the achievements of Air Marshal Udeni Rajapaksa, highlighting his excellence in sports, academics and extracurricular activities during his time at the school.
Following the speech, Air Marshal Rajapaksa, the Chief Guest, addressed the distinguished gathering. Prior to his address, an Introductory Note about the Chief Guest was delivered by a classmate of the Commander, Dr. Ishantha Siribaddana and a batch mate from the 6th Intake of Kotelawala Defence Academy, Major Mahinda Adikari (Retd).
Air Marshal Rajapaksa humbly acknowledged that his achievements were a result of the solid foundation he received during his secondary education at his beloved Ananda College. With pride, he expressed profound gratitude to his alma mater, addressing the Alumni members and emphasizing that the strong educational foundation he received paved the way for his appointment as the Commander of the Air Force. The Commander also warmheartedly remembered and appreciated all the teachers who served during his time for secondary education at Ananda College.
As a gesture of recognition, a special memento was presented to Air Marshal Rajapaksa by Ananda College alumnus, the President of the OAPF and OASC, as well as the incumbent Secretary to the Ministry of Defence, General Kamal Guneratne (Retd). The ceremony concluded with the Vote of Thanks, delivered by Mr. Sitendra Seneviratne, the Former President of the Old Anandians’ Sports Club.
SRI LANKA‘S FINEST HOTEL CHEFS PREPARE FOR THE BOCUSE D’OR 2023 -THE OLYMPICS OF THE CULINARY WORLD!
Bocuse d’Or is considered as the “Olympics of Cooking” and takes its name after the legendary Paul Bocuse, who was a dynamic French chef based in Lyon and known for the high quality of his restaurants and his innovative approaches to cuisine. A press conference was held on 4th July 2023 by Bocuse d’Or Sri Lanka at the Hilton Colombo Residencies with the French Ambassador to Sri Lanka and the Maldives, His Excellency Jean-Francois Pactet as the Guest of Honour. The media conference was also attended by the President of the Bocuse d’Or Sri Lanka Chapter, Mr. Rohan Fernandopoulle, and Tea Grower & Dilmah Tea CEO Dilhan C. Fernando along with other main sponsors and special guests.
Thirty of Sri Lanka’s finest hotel chefs were felicitated as they prepare to compete on 23rd July 2023 in the preliminary local round at the William Angliss Institute at SLIIT in Malabe. It will be the seventh time that the competition is taking place in Sri Lanka. Following an intensive cook off, there will be a 5-course Gala dinner and award ceremony at Water’s Edge, Battaramulla, to announce the winning culinary team that will have the prestigious honour of representing Sri Lanka in the Regional competition.
Competing chefs from 30 Sri Lankan hotels will be tasked with creating two main course dishes, one featuring seafood and one showcasing meat. The most challenging aspect of the competition is that the chefs will need to infuse their dishes with the exquisite Dilmah teas. Aspiring chefs will also have the opportunity to elevate their gourmet artistry by cooking with the “super foods”: seaweed and jackfruit. Addressing the guests and media, the President of the Bocuse d’Or Sri Lanka Chapter, Mr. Rohan Fernandopoulle, highlighted the need to promote “Culinary Tourism” and the “taste of Sri Lanka” through the competition. He noted that contestants will be using Dilmah tea-which has been a long standing sponsor of the Bocuse d’Or since its inception-in their main courses.
Speaking to the media, Dilmah Tea CEO Dilhan C. Fernando stated that the Bocuse d’Or is one of the most prestigious competitions that “nurtures culinary art” and he stressed the importance of promoting Sri Lankan super foods, such as the humble Jackfruit, Gotu Kola, Cashew nuts, Seaweed, and aromatic homegrown spices such as cinnamon and cloves, which are absolutely essential for the development of the local rural economy. He also noted that Jack fruit had gained prominence in Western countries as a major “super food” in recent times and is fast gaining popularity as a trendy health food among the fitness conscious.
As a platform to showcase the artistic skills of aspiring cuisiniers, Bocuse d’Or is regarded as the most prestigious award for chefs in the world and has been taking place every two years in Lyon, France since 1987. The founder, late Chef Paul Bocuse, is an icon of French gastronomy and in a career spanning almost half a century, he was not only an ambassador for French cuisine, but was also the father of “Nouvelle Cuisine”. The local Bocuse d’Or 2023 competition will celebrate the harmonious blend of culinary excellence and tea gastronomy. The event promises to be an exciting and unforgettable experience for all participants and guests, as it showcases the exceptional skills and boundless creativity of Sri Lanka’s finest chefs at the highest level.
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ARTICLE BY NELUM BUDDHADASA