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Cinnamon Bentota Beach Signature Selection to Host Gem Sri Lanka 2025

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Bentota, Sri Lanka – Cinnamon Bentota Beach Signature Selection is proud to host the second edition of South Asia’s premier gemstone exhibition, Gem Sri Lanka 2025, scheduled to take place from January 8 to January 10, 2025. This prestigious event, a cornerstone of Sri Lanka’s gem and jewellery industry, will unite leading industry professionals, international buyers, and sellers to celebrate and explore the island’s renowned gem heritage.

Organized by the Chinafort Gem and Jewellery Traders Association (CGJTA) with support from the National Gem and Jewellery Authority (NGJA) and the Export Development Board (EDB), Gem Sri Lanka 2025 will showcase Sri Lanka’s expertise and innovation across various facets of the gemstone industry, including mining, cutting, polishing, and heat treatment.

The event is expected to provide a significant boost to Sri Lanka’s tourism sector by attracting international visitors eager to explore the country’s unique gem heritage and stunning natural beauty. With its rich cultural history, picturesque landscapes, and world-class hospitality, Sri Lanka offers a perfect backdrop for this global exhibition. Gem Sri Lanka not only promote the nation’s gemstone legacy but also enhance its reputation as a premier travel destination, encouraging longer stays and repeat visits.

Commenting on the event, Johan Aschan, Area Vice President of Sri Lanka Resorts & General Manager of Cinnamon Bentota Beach Signature Selection, stated, “Hosting Gem Sri Lanka for the second consecutive year at Cinnamon Bentota Beach – Signature Selection is a privilege, as this exhibition sets the benchmark for coloured gemstone showcases in Asia. As we continue to position Cinnamon Bentota Beach Signature Selection as a premier destination for luxury events, partnering with an exhibition of this calibre perfectly reflects the sophistication and exclusivity our resort embodies. Together, we celebrate Sri Lanka’s exceptional gem heritage while reaffirming our shared commitment to excellence.”

Cinnamon Bentota Beach Signature Selection offers an ideal venue for this distinguished event, featuring expansive and versatile event spaces paired with modern facilities. The resort provides a sophisticated setting to connect industry stakeholders and foster business opportunities.

Located on Sri Lanka’s iconic Bentota Beach, Cinnamon Bentota Beach Signature Selection is the flagship property of Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts under the Signature Selection experience. Recently repositioned to blend luxury with heritage, the resort, designed by legendary architect Geoffrey Bawa, is a masterpiece of cultural refinement and modern elegance. It boasts exclusive amenities and world-class service, making it the perfect host for international events.

By hosting Gem Sri Lanka 2025, Cinnamon Bentota Beach Signature Selection showcases its commitment to elevating Sri Lanka’s position as a global leader in the gem and jewellery industry. This event not only highlights the island’s unparalleled gemstone legacy but also boosts tourism by showcasing Sri Lanka’s luxury hospitality, culture, and natural beauty to an international audience.
For more details about the Gem Sri Lanka exhibition, visit www.gslfair.com. To learn more about Cinnamon Bentota Beach Signature Selection, visit www.cinnamonhotels.com.

DIMO wins two prestigious awards at the 2025 WEICHAI LOVOL GLOBAL PARTNERS CONFERENCE

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As the authorized distributor for LOVOL Harvesters in Sri Lanka, DIMO received two prestigious accolades at the 2025 WEICHAI LOVOL GLOBAL PARTNERS CONFERENCE, held recently at the LOVOL Center in China.

DIMO was honored with the Loyal Partner Award, recognizing its enduring partnership and commitment to fostering mutual growth with LOVOL. Additionally, the company was presented with the Outstanding Marketing Activity Planning Award for its innovative and impactful marketing strategies that have significantly elevated the LOVOL brand in the region.

Mr. Amila De Silva, Deputy General Manager – Agri Machinery Sales Division, and Mr. Malith Rodrigo, Assistant Marketing Manager – Agri Machinery, represented DIMO at this landmark event, which welcomed over 400 participants from more than 70 countries.

These accolades underscore DIMO’s contribution to advancing agriculture in Sri Lanka.

New Commander of the Navy calls on Defence Secretary

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The 26th Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy, Vice Admiral Kanchana Banagoda called on the Secretary to the Ministry of Defence, Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd) at the Ministry of Defence today (31st December 2024).

During the ensuing meeting, Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd) expressed his best wishes to Vice Admiral Kanchana Banagoda for his appointment as the 26th Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy. The occasion also transpired to be the maiden official interaction between them, after Vice Admiral Kanchana Banagoda took office as Commander of the Navy. The discussions between them focused on key issues, including the realization of the national maritime aspiration and the Sri Lanka Navy’s role in ensuring national security.

The cordial meeting drew to a close with an exchange of mementos, marking the significance of this occasion, held in keeping with military traditions.

A lady passenger at the green channel arrived from Ghana arrested-sri Lanka Customs

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Officers attached to Narcotic Control unit at Bandaranayake International Airport arrested a lady passenger at the green channel arrived from Ghana today with a stock of Narcotic substances identified as Cocaine consealed her bagages.

This lady passenger holds a South affrican passport and arrived to Sri Lanka by the flight QR 658 operated by Qatar airways around 1.50 am Today.

The age of the suspected lady is 41yrs old. The weight of the arrested Narcotic substance is around 4068grams with a street value of Rs. 142 million.

Sri lanka Customs Narcotic Control Unit has requested the assistant of the Police Narcotic Bureau and further investigation underway.

Faaz Bridal and Mehendi Academy conducts Exhibition

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RUZAIK FAROOK

Faaz Bridal and Mehendi Academy, Maligawatte, Colombo had organized Mehendi, Cake Making, Cosmetics, Tailoring and Cookery Exhibition was held at the Manzil Reception Hall, Kettarama Temple Road, Maligawatte on Wednesday December 20.  

It was held under the patronage of Director of the Faaz Bridal and Mehendi Academy Mrs. Asma Faiz.

Judges of the event Suraifa Bridal Director Suraifa Rahuma, Nada Beauty Care Director A.R.F. Rizniya and AIM Royal Academy Director Asma Musthaq were view the exhibition.  

There are twenty students participated the exhibition and received gold medals and certificates from Director of the Faaz Bridal and Mehendi Academy Mrs. Asma Faiz

A large number of students, parents and invitees were present at this ceremony.

Re-Imagine Emerald: Versatile Menswear for Every Occasion

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Emerald Inte, Sri Lanka’s premier menswear brand, is redefining its legacy with its “Re-Imagine Emerald” rebranding campaign. This initiative unveils a modern new logo and repositions Emerald as a brand that delivers style for every man and every moment.

While Emerald has long been synonymous with impeccable formalwear, it’s time to reimagine the brand’s offerings. Emerald isn’t just about formals anymore—it’s about versatile menswear that adapts to the diverse needs of today’s men.

Emerald’s rebranding is not just about a new look; it’s about expanding our horizons,” said Ahmed Ikram, Chief Business Officer of Emerald International. “We want people to know that Emerald is no longer just about formals—it’s a brand that offers everything you need to create a complete wardrobe. From office-ready formals to relaxed casuals and head-turning evening attire, including Shirts, Polos, crewnecks, Denim, Utilitech Chinos, and Cotton Chinos, we have something for every man.”

Emerald’s modernized logo encapsulates this sleek, bold, and timeless transformation. It’s a visual representation of a brand evolving to meet the demands of a new generation while remaining a trusted name for its loyal customers.

Discover the versatility and elegance of Emerald at your nearest showroom and explore a brand that’s truly reimagined for every man and every moment.

FACETS 2025 – The 31st annual gem and jewelry exhibition to be held in January

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The 31st FACETS Gem and Jewellery Exhibition, organized by the Sri Lanka Gem and Jewellery Association ( SLGJA ) in collaboration with the National Gem and Jewellery Authority ( NGJA) , is scheduled to be held at the Cinnamon Grand, Colombo between 4th and 6th January 2025.

The launch of the much-anticipated FACETS 2025, which marks the beginning of the new year , brings together leading gem and jewellery dealers, manufacturers , gem technicians and collectors from around the world. The FACETS exhibition, which has been held for many years, is a vibrant celebration of the Sri Lankan gem and jewellery industry, which boasts a long history , reputation and over 75 colourful gems . This exhibition, which is held for local jewellers and dealers , contributes to bringing Sri Lankan craftsmanship, a blend of traditional and modern, to the attention of everyone.

FACETS Sri Lanka 2025 will provide an opportunity for entrepreneurs from Ratnapura , Elahera , Beruwala , Eheliyagoda , Galle , Pelmadulla , Kahawatta and Colombo to showcase their unique gems and jewellery. Providing a platform for industry giants to collaborate with professionals from around the world, the exhibition aims to generate around US$ 01 billion in revenue through gem and jewellery exports .

This exhibition will draw the world’s attention to Sri Lankan sapphires and multi-colored gemstones, while also showcasing Sri Lankan culture and heritage. FACETS 2025 will undoubtedly establish Sri Lanka as a global gem and jewelry hub, as well as provide an opportunity for international collaborations in the gem and tourism industries.

FACETS Sri Lanka 2025 will feature a Sapphire Night to highlight Sri Lanka’s Sapphire Gems and a Women’s Power breakfast to celebrate the contribution of women in the industry. This will include a range of unique experiences such as a local mine tour, an insight into the mining process before it reaches the market and a tour of the Colombo Port City complex. It will also include a VIP golf tournament, further enhancing its reputation. This will provide a more meaningful journey into the sustainable, responsible practices of the industry and the communities that shape it.

As FACETS Sri Lanka enters its 31st year, the upcoming exhibition is set to provide a truly immersive experience for its visitors. The most prestigious event in the gem and jewellery sector in Sri Lanka, it will showcase the beauty, diversity and unparalleled quality of Sri Lankan gems to the world. For more information about the exhibition, visit www.facetssrilanka.com or visit FACETS Sri Lanka ’s Facebook or Instagram accounts.

We would like to thank the organizing committee of FACETS 2025, and the results of their hard work can be seen in this year’s exhibition.

Sixty-seven thousand metric tons of imported rice was released into the country-Sivali Arukkoda

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Additional Director General, Customs Media Spokesman Sivali Arukgoda says that the period given for the import of rice has ended and there is a news that the government has some plan to extend the period.

The period given by the government for the import of rice has now ended. Accordingly, the total amount of rice received by the country is sixty seven thousand metric tons.Of this, twenty-eight thousand five hundred metric tons is raw rice and the remaining thirty-eight thousand five hundred metric tons of rice is Nadu rice. Currently, all this amount of rice is being cleared and released into the country.

It is said that the government has an intention to extend the rice import period even though it has ended. But the Sri Lankan Customs will be able to carry out the clearance work only after the issuance of that gazette.

For this rice, the Sri Lanka customs charged a tax of 65 rupees per kilogram. Accordingly, the Sri Lankan Customs collected a tax amount of approximately 4.3 billion rupees.

‘Design in the Moment: Furniture by the Geoffrey Bawa Practice’ Exhibition from 13th December 2024 to 31st May 2025

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By NELUM BUDDHADASA

Geoffrey Bawa was a renowned Sri Lankan architect, often referred to as the leader of the Tropical Modernist movement. He was one of the most influential Asian architects of his generation. Born in Colombo in 1919, Bawa initially pursued a career in law but later turned to architecture. His unique approach to design was heavily influenced by his travels and his deep appreciation for Sri Lankan culture and history.

 Bawa’s workblended modern architectural principles with traditional Sri Lankan aesthetics, creating spaces that were both functional and visually stunning.  Some of Bawa’s most notable works include:Lunuganga: His private residence and garden, considered a masterpiece of landscape architecture. The Parliament Complex: A monumental building that reflects Sri Lankan architectural heritage. The Bentota Beach Hotel: A pioneering example of tropical resort architecture.  

Renowned for his architectural brilliance, Geoffrey Bawa also possessed a keen eye for furniture design. His minimalist yet elegant pieces, born from the socio-economic and cultural context of his time, continue to captivate.The Geoffrey Bawa Trust, in partnership with Phantom Hands, presents “Design in the Moment: Furniture by the Geoffrey Bawa Practice.”This exhibition offers a comprehensive exploration of Bawa’s furniture designs, featuring reproductions, prototypes, and material samples.

Curated by Channa Daswatte and Aparna Rao, the show explores the historical and cultural context of these pieces, considering their potential for contemporary interpretation. This collaborative exhibition with Phantom Hands not only celebrates Bawa’s innovative designs but also explores their enduring relevance in today’s world.

Phantom Hands is an Indian furniture brand based in Bangalore, known for its handcrafted, design-driven contemporary furniture. They collaborate with furniture and textile designers to create collections that blend Indian craftsmanship with modern design aesthetics. Phantom Hands’ collaboration with the Geoffrey Bawa Trust offers a great opportunity to bring back some of Bawa’s iconic furniture designs. They have reproduced, prototyped, and showcased material samples of Bawa’s furniture, offering a glimpse into his innovative spirit. This collaboration aims to celebrate Bawa’s legacy and make his designs accessible to a wider audience.

The exhibition “Design in the Moment: Furniture by the Geoffrey Bawa Practice” showcased these pieces, exploring their historical and cultural context and their potential for contemporary interpretation.

The Sanchi Maha Bodhi Festival joins India’s national festival calendar.

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The Sanchi Maha Bodhi Festival has been added to the National Festival Calendar issued by the Government of India by naming the various religious and cultural festivals held in India as National Festivals from this year.

Accordingly, the Sanchi Mahabodhi Festival, based on the annual exhibition of the relics of Saryut Mughals, which has been held for 72 years, is considered a national festival in India from this year.It was held recently (November 30 December 01) with the participation of a large number of Buddhist devotees from India, Sri Lanka and other foreign countries.

The two-day event was centered around the Sanchi Chetiyagiri temple built in the Sanchi Stupa complex. The Chetiyagiri temple had been bult by emperor Asoka. Mr. Prahalad Singh Patel, Minister of Rural Development and Panchayat Sabha, along with Mr. Kiran Rijiju, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs of India, attended the Sanchi Maha Bodhi Festival with the special greetings of the Prime Minister of India, Mr. Narendra Modi.

The Prime Minister of India, Mr. Narendra Modi, in his congratulatory message to Venerable Banagala Upatissa Thero on the occasion of the Sanchi Maha Bodhi Festival said, “The Sanchi Maha Bodhi Festival showcases our civilizational roots and rich traditions held annually to allow Buddhist devotees and pilgrims from all over the world to worship the relics of two great disciples of the Buddha, Sariputta Maharahat and Mahamogallana Maharahat.The Mahabodhi Society’s efforts to preserve and popularize the Dharma buddha and playing an important role in bringing our culture and values ​​to the youth.Also The eternal teachings of the Buddha connect many nations and societies with others. A strong example of this is the Sanchi festival, which brings together people of different races”

I congratulate the Mahabodhi Association for the success of the Sanchi Mahabodhi Festival. I am sure that such events will strengthen our cultural heritage and inspire future generations, Prime Minister Narendra Modi further stated in the message.

Buddhists led by Dr. Supachai Verapuchong from Thailand, Vietnamese devotees including Bodhi Chitta Theraniya from Vietnam, Japanese Buddhist monks and nuns, Buddhist monks and devotees from Sri Lanka joined this event.After centuries of forest cover and ruins, it was discovered in 1918 by Alexander Cunningham and General Macy in 1851 First time at Sanchi shrine.

                               Excavations were made and then in 1912, Sir General John Marshall restored the ruins and restored the sanctum sanctorum to its present venerable state after the excavations, the relics of the great Mughals, who had been taken to England, built the Sanchi Chetiyagiri temple and worked with irresistible courage to bury it there.Most Venerable Banagala Upatissa Thero, President of Sanchi Chethiyagiri Vihara, President of Sri Lanka Mahabodhi Society, said that Hadigalle Pannathissa  Thero.

As the chief guests of this year’s event, Venerable Vihara of Sanchi Chetiyagiri Vihara, Kandy Wattegama Maliadeva International Buddhist Center Director of Vietnam Bodhichitta Theran, Central Government of India Panchayat Sabha and Rural Development Minister Prahalad Singh Patel (Sri Prahalad Singh Patel).Dr. Supachal Verapunchong, one of Thailand’s foremost Buddhist leaders, Member of Madhya Pradesh Vidhan Sabha (State Legislative Assembly) Dr. Prabhuram Chaudhary Raisan District Collector Aravind Kumar Dubey – Collector & District Magistrate – Raisan District) participated.

Cultural groups including famous Japanese singer MyU, Sri Lanka’s Thushara Hettiarachi, and Buddhist artists representing various parts of India joined the cultural concert held in conjunction with the Sanchi Mahabodhi Mahotsa.Also, nearly 100,000 Buddhist devotees from Orissa, Andhra, Telangana, Ladakh, Uttar and Uttarakhand, Assam, Kerala, Himachal, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra and other states participated in the Mahabodhi festival on these two days, Chetigiri vihara resident Udugama Tapassi Thero said.

The relics of Saryut Mughal Agrasravaka, which were kept in the fragrance chamber of the crypt of Chetiagiri Vihara, were brought to the upper floor from that chamber on the 30th of November (30), and after being placed in the temple building, the people were given the opportunity to pay obeisance.Presbyter Banagala Upatissa said that the request of the late Prime Minister of India, Sir Jazablalala Nehru, was fulfilled 72 years ago.A special alms giving was held at the Maha Bodhi Vandana Niketan premises for the Indian monks coming to this event, and a large number of dansals were organized for the pilgrims