Life style

A PORTENT OF THINGS TO COME: waiting to die in Uda Walawe

Published

4 years ago

2021/03/7

by Rohan Wijesinha

A New Year spells new beginnings and brings with it the hope of things better. This year, it dawned very differently at the Uda Walawe National Park. The officers of the Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC) were on a mission of mercy. A large bull elephant had been shot; the bone and muscle of the knee of his back left leg had been shattered. It had swollen to many times its normal size, and needed urgent treatment. The shooting had taken place outside of the Park, and the DWC officers had to entice this beautiful creature back into it, with food and elephant delicacies, to keep him safe from more human torture, and to try and treat his wounds. Despite the extent of his injuries, they managed to tempt him in, a considerable trek in his condition. In his prime, large and full of life, this big bull now faced the biggest challenge to his existence; to heal from human harm.

When death is a release

Six weeks later, and the DWC officers were trying to move him again, away from the edges of the Park, perhaps so that he could die in peace, away from the prying eyes of those who might otherwise exult in his sad ending. Time, even this short span of time, had taken heavy toll. Despite the every effort of the DWC officers, the swelling had now trebled in size, and was oozing with foul smelling suppurate. The once proud beast, now an emaciated hulk, blind in one eye, perhaps the result of a previous bullet, shuffled along the road in obvious pain. His left back leg crumpled every time it took his weight, and with each step, more pus oozed out of the swollen mass of rotting flesh.

We may never know why he was shot, or why he deserved to be if such a justification can ever be made, but the placement of the bullet clearly showed that it was to hurt and not to instantly kill. Yet, with a political leadership seemingly intent on the decimation of the wildlife and wilderness areas of Sri Lanka, this will be just one of the many tragedies waiting to play out on lands that were once prized by our ancient rulers and peoples for their sanctity, serenity and life-giving powers, and were the foundation of this country’s prosperity.

Murdering the future

A government that wages war on its own people is referred to as a Dictatorship but, usually, exists for just the lifespan of that particular rule as not even tyrants can live forever. History shows that power soon returns to the people, and sanity prevails once more. Those who wage war on Nature and the environment, however, are Demons that are intent on destroying the futures of all who come after them. They have no comprehension of tomorrow but believe that their today is all that matters, a final generation. Though the ‘future’ is bound to curse them for their callous destruction of it, they will no longer be there to suffer the consequences of their wickedness. Their children will be sent to live elsewhere, though as the climate heats up, due to deforestation and environmental destruction, there may be nowhere else to live. Nature does not adhere to manmade boundaries – those constructed by states or individuals. A lack of water, polluted air and inadequate supplies of food will bring as slow and as lingering a death to humanity, as it is today coming to the dying bull elephant in the Uda Walawe National Park.

The Government has now determined that any farmer with over an acre of arable land is to be given guns to protect their crops from wildlife. It is estimated that there are approximately two million who will so qualify. Sri Lanka’s famous fauna, those exotic creatures with whom we share this Island and who attract many visitors to our shores, will be the victims of this slaughter. The massacre will be apocalyptic. It will not only be elephants who will be targeted, but any creature that nears human cultivation and habitation.

There is also a matter of National security. In the last 50 years Sri Lanka has suffered the consequences of three major insurrections; two in the South and one in the North. There has been a rise in the levels of domestic violence. Will these guns be used against animals alone?

Give a child a gun, and who is responsible? It is clear as to who should be held to account for every human and animal death that results from this irresponsible political initiative. This is not being done for the benefit of farmers for if it was, the forests would be fiercely protected for they are the bringers of rain, and the precious water needed for agriculture. Wild animals are an essential component of a healthy ecosystem. This is nothing but for the benefit of the policymakers and the money they, and their henchmen, can make from selling this precious natural heritage to large corporate entities who will rape it for what it can give them, and in the shortest possible time. Nothing but barren, waterless earth will remain for those who are left to try and scrape a pittance from the residue – the true farmers.

The Final Generation?

Historians, if there are any left, will refer to this as the Final Age as biodiversity disappears, and natural systems begin to collapse. There would be no point in appealing to our Gods to sustain us as this destruction would have been orchestrated by men who delude themselves that they are divine and not just above the Laws of Men, but those of Nature too. They, long ago, abandoned their worship of the just by building graven images of themselves with the materials they had plundered, and continue to steal, from the Earth.

If only we could save it for the future, for the younger generations are far more aware of the value of Nature and the need to preserve it, intact, for the health and life of all? They are the hope of tomorrow. Are we going to stand by quietly and let them be robbed of their inheritance especially as there are so many ways for us to coexist with Nature, and benefit from its blessings? Or do we, too, believe that ours is the final generation?

“Human kind of one generation holds the guardianship and conservation of the natural resources in trust for future generations…A sacred duty to be carried out with the highest level of accountability.”

Justice Shiranee Thilakawardena (in Watte Gedara Wijebanda v Conservator General of Forests and Others 2009 1 SLR 337 at p. 338)

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Life style

Blending additional warmth to festive v season

Published

6 hours ago

2024/12/22

Thilina Walpola

Pegasus Reef Hotel brought a refreshing twist to the festive season with its much awaited ‘Tropical Christmas’ themed holiday activities by lighting the Christmas Tree and welcoming Santa to the tropics a press release said. The celebrations provided a unique and joyful experience for the whole family, blending the traditional warmth of the festive season with the vibrancy of a tropical setting. The beautifully lit tropical Christmas tree set the tone for both an unforgettable evening and a magical holiday season for all. Guests enjoyed a host of activities including interactive elements for children, including surprise Christmas gifts and photo opportunities with Santa said the release.

The centre piece of the festivities was Santa who made a grand entrance to the event having escaped the cold of the North Pole, to spread the joys of Christmas to young and old in a warm tropical setting. This added to the ambience and brought out that true festive spirit. Tropical-inspired cocktails were available along with delicious food to offer additional flavour to the celebrations.

Commenting on the celebrations, Renuke Coswatte, General Manager of Pegasus Reef Hotel said, “Our Christmas celebrations have always been highly anticipated and has set the tone for the season. This year, by giving festive traditions a tropical twist, we were able to provide our guests, their friends and families a truly unforgettable start to the holiday season. From ‘Santa’s Welcome Party’ coupled with the ‘Tropical Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony’ and with what we have in store in December, the celebrations will truly be unforgettable.”

Pegasus Reef Hotel has garnered a reputation for hosting exciting festive events over the years, making it a top choice for year-end parties for all. So much so, that the hotels Christmas festivities are eagerly anticipated throughout the year. This year’s ‘Tropical Christmas’ celebration was an ideal opportunity for families, couples and friends to celebrate the season in a warm and inviting setting, that features activities for all.

Lighting of the Christmas Tree and Santa’s welcome party brought the magic of ‘Tropical Christmas’ to life blending traditional holiday festivities added with tropical charm. Pegasus Reef Hotel warmly invites everyone to join in the upcoming seasonal celebrations and create cherished family memories that will last a lifetime.

For more information on future events, contact Pegasus Reef Hotel on 0112049600, follow them on social media at facebook.com/Pegasusreefwattala or www.instagram.com/pegasusreef_wattala and visit their website at www.pegasusreefhotel.com.

Life style

Tis the season to sparkle and shine

Published

6 hours ago

2024/12/22

Thilina Walpola

This festive season, step into a world of allure at Taj Samudra Colombo, where the spirit of Christmas is brought to life with joy, celebration, and heartwarming experiences said a press release.In the words of Kris Kringle from A Miracle on 34th Street, “Christmas isn’t just a day; it’s a frame of mind.” At Taj Samudra, we embrace this philosophy with a delightful array of offerings designed to spread joy and festive cheer to our guests throughout the season said the release.

From gourmet hampers to festive family dinners, the Christmas carvery market, and the iconic Christmas goodies hut, our kitchen team has created a magical atmosphere for guests to enjoy, share, and celebrate this season of giving.

Luxury Seasonal Hampers and Wine

This Christmas, Taj Samudra offers the ultimate luxury gift experience with customized seasonal hampers. Choose from a selection of premium wines, Champagne, sparkling wines, and exclusive beverages, along with Christmas cakes, puddings, festival chocolates, cheese, seasonal cookies, and more. Curated to perfection, these hampers are the ideal way to indulge your loved ones with festive joy.

Christmas Carvery Counter

Indulge in the flavors of the season at our Christmas Carvery Counter, featuring a homemade charcuterie station brimming with delicious offerings. Enjoy lamb salami, beef salami, smoked lamb, honey ham, chicken cold cut, smoked seer, chicken liver pate and a variety of other delectable treats, perfect for gathering and sharing with friends and family.

Christmas goodies hut at the lobby

Visit the delightful Christmas goodies hut in our lobby, a stunning display of handpicked seasonal treats created by our award-winning chefs. The Goodies Hut, open daily from 10:00 am to 9.00 pm, offers an array of beautifully decorated seasonal goodies and carefully selected gift items—ideal for gifting or enjoying yourself.

Christmas eve celebrations

On the eve of Christmas, join us for a traditional Christmas eve dinner buffet at Ports of Call, where festive delicacies, live action stations, and mouthwatering desserts await. Santa will make a special appearance to delight the young and the young-at-heart. Additionally, enjoy a festive à la carte lunch and dinner at Golden Dragon, Navratna, and YUMI, our stylish Japanese resto-bar.

Christmas Day Festivities

Celebrate Christmas Day with a traditional festive lunch at Ports of Call, featuring all-time favorites such as succulent turkey and a wide selection of Christmas specialties. Our Executive Chef Sajesh Nair and his kitchen brigade will craft the perfect Christmas spread to satisfy every craving.

The said experience an unforgettable musical evening with The Traveleer Sound Duo from Budapest

The release said The lattice lobby lounge for an unforgettable musical experience with The Traveler Sound Duo from Budapest, Hungary. Known for their captivating performances, this talented duo brings a diverse repertoire that spans pop, rock, jazz, and more, offering something for every music lover. Catch them live every Tuesday to Sunday from 7:00 pm to 10:30 pm and enjoy their soulful melodies and dynamic sound in the heart of our vibrant atmosphere. They will also be performing during our renowned Sunday Brunch at Ports of Call, adding the perfect soundtrack to your delightful dining experience.

Unwind and Celebrate at YUMI Japanese Resto Bar and Poolside – Daily Happy Hour from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm

This holiday season, experience the magic of Christmas at Taj Samudra Colombo, where every corner of the hotel radiates the joy and warmth of the festive season.

Life style

Hot Red looks for Christmas

Published

6 hours ago

2024/12/22

Thilina Walpola

Christmas is here and we are eager to begin the celebrations. Everything about December is breathtaking and spectacular, with the rapid shift in the weather and the increasing camaraderie. The cherry on top is the excitement of the New Year itself! The joyous month of the New Year and Christmas is filled with delicious delicacies, elegant decorations, lovely attire, and joyful vibes everywhere. Dressing up for Christmas in warm and fashionable red outfits is something we all love. However, if you are still confused about your Christmas attire, don’t worry, we are here to rescue you. When it comes to fashion and style, no one can do it better than our Bollywood queens. Here are some red-hot looks from our fav Bollywood divas to inspire your Christmas outfits.

Kiara Advani is a true fashionista who can pull off any look. While co-ord sets are among the season’s hottest fashions. In a red-coordinated ensemble, Kiara is offering fashion advice to everyone. Her ensemble is the ultimate Christmas attire since it perfectly combines sexiness and elegance. She is wearing a bustier crop top and a high-rise skirt that accentuate her physique. Bronze bangles and earrings completed Kiara Advani’s outfit as accessories. With this attire, you’ll definitely steal the show.

Huma’s red formal outfit serves as the ideal Christmas dress inspiration for you if you are not a fan of fancy attire and prefer a sleek and refined look. Whether it’s a casual gathering or a formal function, pantsuits look great on any occasion. In addition to being fashionable, it will also keep you warm. She looks great with a full-sleeved crimson jacket with a wide horizontal white stripe at the bust and straight-fit ankle leggings. For the best appearance, pair it with stud earrings and minimal makeup. Sara is a diva and she is slaying fashion goals in her little red dress with white frills.

If you wish to grab all the attention at the Christmas party then take cues from Sara and choose a red hot bodycon thigh-high slit little dress. Pair it up with a matching red jacket for the glam look and you will be ready to rock the Christmas party.

Among all the divas, Rakul Preet Singh is one of the most fashionable. The actress always dresses well, whether it’s in a gorgeous gown, party attire, or just something that’s too ethnic. Her red corset-style dress is stunning and a must-have for your Christmas wardrobe. It has an off-the-shoulder design, full sleeves, and a fitting nature. To get the glam look, wear it with pointed shoes and diamond drop earrings.

Talking about fashion and style and not mentioning Deepika Padukone is not fair. The queen of Bollywood looks amazing no matter what she wears. If you are tired of wearing dresses and gowns and want to try something different, her vibrant red power suit that exudes boss-woman energy is the ideal outfit inspiration. Her quirky bralette, which had a crisscross neckline, was polished off with a layer of preppy flair thanks to the oversized blazer’s design.