Mount Lavinia Hotel Celebrates 220 Years of Love.

Mount Lavinia Hotel, Sri Lanka’s most iconic destination for romance, hosted an interactive briefing on December 30, 2024, to mark a significant milestone in its history, “220 years of Love.” This year-long celebration commemorates the hotel’s deep roots in Sri Lanka’s romantic heritage, beginning with the legendary love story of Sir Thomas Maitland and Lovina in 1805.

Fashion as Manifestation: Setting Intentions Through Fashion

The start of a new year is not just a calendar reset; it’s an invitation to reimagine who we want to become. In 2025, the idea of “power dressing” transcends sharp suits and towering heels- it becomes a tool for setting intentions, manifesting success, and stepping into a more empowered version of ourselves. Fashion has always been a form of self-expression, but in 2025, it takes on a new role: a wearable affirmation of the life we want to create

A BOLLYWOOD EXTRAVAGANZA NEW YEAR’S EVE AT TAJ COLOMBO

Taj Colombo bid farewell to 2024 in spectacular fashion with its Bollywood-themed New Year’s Eve Dinner Dance. Guests were treated to an unforgettable night featuring electrifying performances by DJ Ashok Bajaj, the legendary band Journey with Supun Perera, and the iconic Kanchana Anuradhi.

A SPECTACULAR JAMES BOND NEW YEAR’S GALA AT CINNAMON LAKESIDE

Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo hosted an unforgettable James Bond-themed New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner at The Kings Court on December 31st, 2024. Guests indulged in a luxurious evening with an exquisite gala dinner, entertainment by top bands Sohan and The Xperiments and AROHA, and sensational performances by Judy De Silva, Geoffrey Fernando, Monique, and more.

A MAGICAL EVENING OF FESTIVE CHEER

Prithi Fernando hosted an enchanting Christmas dinner on December 29th, 2024, at her stunning Penthouse at Colombo City Centre. The evening was a seamless blend of elegance and warmth, featuring exquisite cocktails, champagne, a delectable array of canapés, and a sumptuous dinner.

PETTI PETTI, MIRISSA

Petti Petti in Mirissa recently hosted a spectacular party that left guests buzzing with excitement. The evening featured vibrant performances by Magic Box Mix Up, setting an electric atmosphere that perfectly complemented the venue’s chic and tropical vibes. With its stunning ambiance, delectable cocktails, and world-class entertainment, Petti Petti has established itself as the ultimate must-visit destination on the southern coast.

MOUNT LAVINIA HOTEL TO RING IN 2025 WITH SPECTACULAR PARISIAN EXTRAVAGANZA.

In a dazzling celebration of French elegance and glamour, Mount Lavinia Hotel is set to transform its iconic oceanfront terrace into a Parisian wonderland this New Year’s Eve. The highly anticipated event, ’’Moulin Rouge: Une Nuit à Paris,’’ promises to be an extraordinary fusion of sophistication, entertainment, and culinary excellence against the backdrop of Colombo’s most picturesque coastline.

The Light We Carry at Christmas.

In Colombo, December nights never get quite as cold as the ones you envisage after Christmas movies. The air here hums with its own humid press, carrying the scent of coriander tea and the remote crackle of fireworks, long before midnight down Marine drive. There are no snow-dressed pines or frost-laced windows here, but still, the season slips into our lives like an old friend dropped off too soon on a forgotten sidewalk. Not with a bold knock,

Modernising the I Ching: Balancing Ancient Wisdom with Today’s Digital World

Is the spiritual guidance and wisdom from the I Ching, the ancient Chinese divination text, also known as the Book of Changes, still relevant today? We ask experts Erik Schön, Sandra Constantine, and Will Buckingham to weigh in.

ADHITYA AYURVEDA

Adhitya Ayurveda marked a significant milestone with the launch of its newest wellness sanctuary in Boossa, Galle. The exclusive gathering on December 21st celebrated the unveiling of their beachfront retreat, where distinguished guests explored the seamless fusion of traditional Ayurveda with contemporary luxury.

CHRISTMAS COCKTAILS HOSTED BY PRITHI FERNANDO

Colombo’s festive season sparkled as Prithi Fernando welcomed guests to her elegant Boxing Day soirée. The intimate Christmas cocktail gathering, hosted at her private residence, brought together close friends and family for an evening of warmth and celebration.

Quiet Luxury or Loud Statements? Navigating 2025’s Dichotomy in Style

In the ever-evolving world of fashion, 2025 is shaping up to be a year of striking contrasts. Two dominant forces are at play: the understated elegance of quiet luxury and the unapologetic drama of bold maximalism. These opposing trends offer something for everyone, inviting us to consider whether we’d rather whisper or shout through our style choices.

MOODS OF CHRISTMAS

Soul Sounds Academy and internationally acclaimed pianist Soundarie David enchanted audiences at Moods of Christmas, hosted at the Cinnamon Grand, Colombo. The evening showcased the choir’s versatility through a masterful blend of traditional carols and contemporary festive favorites. Under Soundarie’s direction, the ensemble delivered powerful renditions that captured the diverse emotions of the season.

ST. THOMAS’ COLLEGE CLASS OF 1982

The Thomian Class of ‘82 gathered for their annual Christmas celebration at Anarva, Mount Lavinia, marking another year of enduring fellowship. The festive evening brought together old friends and their families in a night filled with nostalgia, laughter, and holiday cheer.

Sri Lankan Scientist Leads Discovery of Novel Cell Type with Therapeutic Potential.

In a significant advancement in vascular biology, Dr. Sanuri Liyanage, a Sri Lankan-born medical scientist at the South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), has co-led a team that identified a new cell type with profound implications for tissue repair and vascular health. This discovery, nearly a decade in the making, introduces, ‘EndoMac progenitors,’ cells that play a pivotal role in blood vessel formation following injury

W15 Ambuluwawa: Your Gateway to Luxury and Adventure A Mountain Sanctuary like No Other

Nestled high in the picturesque mountains of Sri Lanka, W15 Ambuluwawa is a sanctuary where modern luxury meets the raw, untamed beauty of nature. This boutique hotel, the latest gem in the W15 Collection, offers an elevated escape for travelers seeking serenity, adventure, and a touch of sophistication. With its breathtaking vistas, sustainable design, and unmatched hospitality, W15 Ambuluwawa invites you to step into a world where every moment

Abbas Esufally Receives Bhutan’s Highest National Honour

Abbas Esufally, Deputy Chairman of HEMAS PLC and Honorary Consul General of Bhutan in Sri Lanka, has been conferred with the Order of the Druk Gyalpo, Bhutan’s most prestigious national honour. This esteemed recognition, presented by His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, celebrates Esufally’s decades of dedicated service to the kingdom and its people.

Astrology x Style: Dressing According to Your Zodiac

Astrology has long been a guide to our personalities, relationships, and life decisions, but what about our closets? Your zodiac sign can be a roadmap to finding a style that not only resonates with who you are but also enhances your self-expression. Whether you’re a bold Leo or a dreamy Pisces, here’s how to align your wardrobe with the stars.

INNOVATION CONNECT 2024

TRACE INNOVATION CONNECT 2024, an exclusive gathering of visionary leaders and trailblazers dedicated to shaping the strategic agenda of the nation and creating a brighter tomorrow. Held at Trace Expert City, the event brought together the brightest minds in innovation, technology, and leadership to exchange groundbreaking ideas and chart pathways toward transformative change.

CELEBRATING THE ART OF STORYTELLING

Spotted at the elegant launch of Tablescape Narratives, authored by Dilukshi Senanayake and published by Smart Media. This remarkable book explores the art of storytelling through curated table settings, featuring exquisite craftsmanship by artisans from Sri Lanka and Australia. The event was held at the Kingsbury, Colombo.

CIS CLASS OF 2010

The CIS Class of 2010 gathered for a heartwarming reunion at Virticle by Jetwing, located atop Access Tower II, Colombo. The evening was a celebration of cherished memories, rekindled friendships, and the remarkable journeys each alumnus has embarked upon since graduation.

The Power of Oneness: Finding Connection in a Divided World

Drawing from a thought-provoking discussion on our podcast, read to explore how the idea of oneness and interconnectedness can shift your perspective.

Celebrating the Top10 Champions of Diversity 2024

Women in Management (WIM), in partnership with the International Finance Corporation (IFC), proudly hosted the prestigious ‘Top10 Champions of Diversity 2024’ awards. This milestone event celebrated exceptional male leaders in Sri Lanka who champion diversity and inclusion within their organizations. The awards ceremony took place on the 9th of December 2024 at the Shangri-La Colombo, spotlighting the vital role of male allies in driving gender i

Shifting the Tides: CSAS Focuses on Teenage Mental Health.

The Colombo School of Arts and Sciences (CSAS) has taken a proactive step towards addressing the growing concerns surrounding teenage mental health by organising a panel discussion and a parental workshop. These initiatives aim to equip parents with the knowledge and tools to support their children during the complex and often challenging adolescent years.

Your Ultimate Guide to 2025 Fashion Trends

As we approach 2025, the fashion world stands at an exhilarating crossroads of nostalgia and innovation. From revisiting iconic styles of the past to embracing cutting-edge aesthetics, the upcoming year promises to cater to a spectrum of tastes. Here’s your front-row seat to the trends set to dominate the runway and your wardrobe in 2025:

LAUNCH BY BUDDHI BATIKS

Buddhi Batiks unveiled its latest collection in an elegant celebration of artistry and tradition at their flagship store in Colombo 07. Hosted by Creative Director, Darshi Keerthisena, guests experienced an inspiring afternoon of creativity, culture, and connection, highlighting the timeless beauty of batik.

TOP10 CHAMPIONS OF DIVERSITY 2024

Soul Sounds Celebrates 21 Years of ‘Moods of Christmas’

The festive season is upon us, and what better way to usher in the Christmas spirit than with the soulful melodies of Sri Lanka’s premier female ensemble, Soul Sounds. This year’s edition of Moods of Christmas marks a momentous milestone as the choir celebrates 21 consecutive years of enchanting audiences at the Cinnamon Grand, Colombo.

SANTA DARLINGS HIGH TEA

Spotted at: The Santa Darling’s High Tea, a heartwarming evening hosted by the BCPPA ROC Committee at Vertical by Elevate on the 8th of December 2024. Senior members aged over 70 years shared festive cheer in style, dressed in smart casual red, green, and white. A memorable gathering of joy, community, and holiday spirit!

A Festive Affair at Park Street Gourmet

As the heart of Colombo embraces the season of joy, Park Street Gourmet transforms into a haven of festive cheer. From the moment you step inside, you are greeted by the alluring aroma of Christmas spices, the twinkle of fairy lights, and the melodious hum of carols that whisk you into a world of holiday magic. It is a celebration of all things merry, with an ambience that evokes the pages of a timeless Christmas storybook.