Fashion

Ramzi Rahaman – The master craftsman

Published

2 years ago

2024/02/4

Thilina Walpola

Ramzi Rahaman

by Savitri de Alwis

It is said that a woman’s crowning glory is her ‘hair’ and it’s the crown she never takes off! For centuries ‘hair’ has been seen as a symbol of strength and beauty in women and from the dawn of civilisation, hair’ has been a fashion statement. Queen Cleopatra’s intriguing braids to heavily sprayed and back-combed beehive and bouffant hairdo of the 70s, to posh bobs and cute fringes, hair curled or waved in rollers, dreadlocks, braids, chignons, buns et al, in all forms and shapes have dominated fashion over time. And truly a good hair day is a boost to one’s self confidence to take on the world.

In that light Ramzi Rahaman the celebrated and sought after hairdresser has been living and breathing it all for 50 in turning the ‘ordinary’ into ‘extraordinary’ with his remarkable talent & skill. He is a master craftsman in his trade, a technically perfect skilled veteran in the industry for half a century. He is also a famed beautician – in the art and craft of make-up and reputed for his bridal creations in making brides breathtakingly beautiful on their unforgettable day.

Ramzi was born into a Malay family of seven (six boys and a girl). Born and raised in Colombo, his father, an accountant, very early recognised that Ramzi was a ‘cut’ above. His natural talent swayed for art & oil painting and to hone his skills his father sent him to the acclaimed Ivor Baptist, a landscape artist, even though he could ill afford the lessons.

As much as Ramzi enjoyed painting, he was fascinated by his maternal grandmother’s long hair which she skilfully wove into chic styles. She became his Muse – a creative influence to inspire Ramzi to take on hair dressing seriously. However, as the culture dictated then, in the 1970s Ceylon, it was an industry commanded by females such as Salon Moira, Janet Dias, Salon Gladys etc. It was almost impossible for Ramzi to enlist as a student for hair-dressing in a profession which was meant exclusively for females.

Nevertheless, dauntlessly and relentlessly he pursued his goal to learn the craft that he was passionate about and finally he was enlisted as the only male student in a class full of females where he topped the batch. He speaks of his guru Logi Mariathasan with deep affection for giving him the opportunity.

Ramzi with Chandrika Kumaratunga

Dressing Shiranthi Rajapaksa as a bride

Thereafter having gained some practical experience upon his local qualification he went to London to learn the technicalities to be a skilled craftsman in the trade he loved at the famous Morris School of Hairdressing and then on to other reputed schools in the UK to keep abreast of the demanding skills and trends as required of a top stylist.

Upon his return in the 1970s, Ramzi’s humble beginnings were acknowledged as he launched himself as a ‘Coiffeur’ in a rented room for a salon at Barnes Place, Colombo 7. This was only possible with the financial support of his family with makeshift equipment due to an austere period in the country. Imports were limited, even the basics such as backwash hair basins were lacking. Neither was there any hair products readily available and he would improvise with stale beer to shape and fashion his hair creations with a perfect result. But Ramzi lived through it all, built his clientele and adapted to the changing scenes as the Hair & Beauty industry evolved in Sri Lanka into a mega industry which catapulted him to fame.

With Rosy Senanayake

Ramzi Rahaman’s impressive client list includes a former President of Sri Lanka, Mrs Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga, a former first lady (a past beauty queen) as a bride on her wedding day as she wed Mr. Mahinda Rajapaksa, a host of past beauty queens of Sri Lanka including Mrs. Rosy Senanayake on her first pageant and also other well-known personalities.

His Salon located off D.S Senanayake Mawatha, Colombo 8 continues to be frequented by his loyal clientele. His numerous international awards adorn the walls of his salon with his A listers and creations. A staunch disciplinarian as a Salon Keeper, his commitment to hard work has been his weapon for success. His sound advice to freshers in the industry is ‘love your hair, love your work and do not chase after money.’

With his youthful looks and a vibrant personality Ramzi Rahaman continues to do what he loves best – making his clients ‘feel’ beautiful. He is acknowledged hugely for his invaluable contribution to the Hair & Beauty Industry in Sri Lanka. And, his inherent talent & skill as a hairdresser, fashion designer, beautician, an artiste par excellence whose creations and craft are immensely valued by women experiencing and celebrating their inner beauty.

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Fashion

Season of sparkle: Priyanthi’s Christmas soiree

Published

2 months ago

2026/01/4

Thilina Walpola

Family affair- son-in-law Oyvind, daughter Shiranthi, Priyanthi and grandson Lucas

The festive spirit was in full swing as Priyanthi Fernando welcomed friends and family to her annual Christmas party at Gregory’s Road.

The evening combined warmth, laughter and seasonal elegance with every detail thoughtfully curated to celebrate the joy of the season. Guests were greeted by twinkling lights and festive decor that transformed the residence into a holiday haven, the ambience struck the perfect balance between glamour and comfort sparkling armaments, candle lit corners and lovely music by a two piece band, the décor not only set the tone for the evening but also created a picture perfect corners that delighted guests and embodied the true spirit of Christmas.

As the night drew on, the celebrations remained intimate yet vibrant,a reflection of Priyanthi Fernando’s flair for hospitality,this soiree stood out as a testament to the timeless charm of Christmas cheer shared in good company (ZC)

: Priyanthi

Fashion

Shaping the future of style

Published

2 months ago

2025/12/28

Thilina Walpola

Pride, passion and professionalism

Ramani Fernando Sunsilk Hair and Beauty Academy

Ramani Fernando Sunsilk Hair and Beauty Academy marked their graduation of their latest cohort of aspiring hair professionals in a ceremony held at Kingsbury Hotel.

Senaka de Silva, creative force behind Ramani’s shows

For over two decades, the Ramani Fernando Sunsilk Hair and Beauty Academy has stood as a beacon of excellence in beauty education in Sri Lanka. Founded by industry icon Ramani Fernando, the Academy has built a reputation for producing highly skilled professionals who go on to make their mark in salons, both locally and internationally. As the newly minted graduates step out into the world, they carry forward not just certificates, but also the promise of creative authority and personal empowerment.

The chief guest for the occasion was Rosy Senanayake, a long-standing supporter of the Academy’s mission. Addressing the graduates her message echoed her enduring belief that the beauty industry is not merely about aesthetic but about. confidence, self-worth and future leaders.

Over months of rigorous training, these young professionals honed their skills in cutting colouring, styling and contemporary artistry readying themselves to set trends rather than follow them.

Each graduate walked the stage with confidence, their dedication signalling a promising future for Sri Lanka’s beauty and fashion industry! With this new generation of stylists preparing to raise the standard of professional hairstyling.

Ramani Fernando, addressing the audience reflected on the academy’s mission to cultivate not only skills but vision and confidence in every student.

She urged the graduates to embrace continuous learning to take risks with creativity .The world of beauty is ever evolving, stay curious, stay bold and never underestimate the power of your talent, she added emphasising the importance of confidence, discipline and passion in carving a successful career in shaping the future of style.

These graduates are stepping into a world of endless possibilities. They are future of the country, who will carry a forward legacy of creativity. Behind every successful graduate at Sun silk Hair Academy stands a team dedicated to excellence. While Ramani Fernando serves as a visionary Principal and it is Lucky Lenagala, her trusted person who ensures that the academy runs seemingly.

From overseeing training sessions to guiding students, through hands on practice, Lucky plays a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of hairstylists.

Kumara de Silva, who has been the official compere Ramani’s, Hair graduation ceremony, from inception has brought energy, poise and professionalism. The Sunsilk Hair Academy is a celebration of talent and mentor ship for the graduates stepping confidentially into the next chapter of their careers, ready to make their mark on Sri Lanka beauty landscape

A moment of pride Ramani with chief guest Rosy Senanayake

Statement in style

Gliding in romance and sophistication

Pix by Thushara Attapathu

By Zanita Careem ✍️

Fashion

Capturing the spirit of Christmas

Published

2 months ago

2025/12/28

Thilina Walpola

Romesh Atapaattu, overseas the magic behind every cut and style at Capello salons

During this season, Romesh Atapattu’s Capello Salon buzzes with a unique energy – a blend of festive excitement and elegance. Clients arrive with visions of holiday parties, office soirees, seeking looks that capture both glamour and individuality. The salon itself mirrors this celebrity mood. Warm lights, tasteful festive décor create an atmosphere where beauty and confidence flourish.

Romesh Atapattu himself curates the festive décor, infusing the space with his signature sense of style. His personal eye ensures that the décor complements the salon’s modern interiors.

As Colombo slips effortlessly into its most glamorous time of year, the Christmas season brings with it more than twinkling lights and celebrity soirees – it signals a transformation season at salons across the city. Capello salons are no exception.

At the heart of this festive beauty movement is Romesh Atapattu of Capello salons, a name synonymous with refined hair artistry, modern elegance and personalised style.

Christmas is about confidence and celebration. Romesh believes ‘People want to look their best without losing who they are”. Our role is to enhance, not overpower. This philosophy is evident in the salon’s seasonal approach.

Beyond trends, what sets Atapattu apart is the attention to individuality. Each consultation is treated as a creative collaboration – face shape, lifestyle, hair texture and personal style all play a role in creating the best for Romesh.

Stepping into Romesh’s salon during the Christmas season is an experience in itself. The space hums with festive energy while maintaining an atmosphere of calm sophistication.

The décor embraces the Christmas spirit with understated elegance. Tastefully adorned décor, beautiful Xmas tree, soft gold and ivory tones, and gentle hints of red are woven seamlessly into the salon’s contemporary design.

His staff, known for their warmth and professionalism also plays a key role in shaping the salon’s atmosphere—friendly, stylish and always welcoming. The Capello staff combine skill and creativity to deliver results that have a lasting impression.

Beyond trends, what sets Romesh Atapattu apart is the attention to individuality. Each consultation is treated as a creative collaboration – face shape, lifestyle, hair texture and personal style all play a role.

He is a professional who blends technical mastery with a deeply personal approach to style. His dedicated team of skilled professionals, operate with quiet confidence ensuring styles that create an atmosphere of trust, turning every appointment into a personalised and memorable experience.

(ZC) ✍️

Pic by Rohan Herath