Business

Documentary on 72 years of Sri Lankan history

Published

4 years ago

2021/11/17

In a brand new initiative, under the working title ‘Project 72’, Roar Media and author Sarah Kabir are set to take a deep dive into Sri Lanka’s past since gaining Independence in 1948, entertainingly and educationally covering some of the most defining years in the nation’s history.

A first-of-its-kind documentary, Project 72 will portray Sri Lanka’s journey since Independence in a way it has never been seen before; From brilliant political manoeuvring to battles won and lost, ethnic tensions and moments of kindness — all through the eyes of witnesses, the voices of experts, and the memories of citizens who lived through these events.

Speaking on the project, Sarah Kabir stated: “Sri Lanka’s post-Independence history has largely been overlooked in the education curricula. From mainstream sources, we either hear one-sided accounts of events or nothing at all. As the saying goes, ‘If we close our eyes to the past, we remain blind to the present.’ Roar Media and I have embarked on this exciting new project hoping to spark debate and discussion amongst Sri Lankans, create awareness, and convey a pluralist history.”

The documentary hopes to provide in-depth coverage of key events from Sri Lanka’s past that have impacted the present, both negatively and positively, in an entertaining and educational manner. Focused on raising awareness and highlighting the struggles and the wins the country has gone through, Project 72 aims to be a comprehensive resource of the key milestones in Sri Lankan history, by focusing on a string of intersecting events and key debates and issues of the time.

The documentary will combine footage, images, animation, infographics, eye-witness accounts, and as many as 50 interviews from experts, and people who have spent their life researching and understanding these events and issues, as well as political leaders and key decision-makers at the time, and those who were eye-witnesses to many of these events, to provide a balanced and comprehensive perspective of Sri Lanka’s journey since Independence.

Coupled with a dynamic narration style and stunning visual representation, Project 72’s unadulterated narratives are set to match some of the top documentaries that are being streamed on platforms like Netflix.

Roar Media Editor-in-Chief Roel Raymond, speaking on the upcoming documentary, stated: “This is an ambitious and challenging — but deeply satisfying project we’ve embarked on, with Sarah Kabir, that seeks not just to confront our own—often inadequate—knowledge of Sri Lanka’s post-colonial history, but also creatively present our findings to a diverse and large audience, so that we are all able to function as an informed citizenry, with the ability to perform our civic duties.

“Creating impactful, authentic content is at the heart of what Roar does, and this project resonates with these goals, making for a seamless partnership—most certainly the first of many more to come.”

The documentary will be made available on its own comprehensive website in English, Sinhala and Tamil, along with a range of supporting materials, such as timelines, articles and more, so that all relevant information presented in the documentary is available for viewing at a glance. It will also host links to other related material, media, and content so that it will serve as a larger repository for information that gives historical context to the subject matter in the documentary.

Project 72 is, in many ways, a groundbreaking genre of filmmaking in Sri Lanka, as it bridges the gap between education, entertainment, and insight, to tell Sri Lanka’s story as it has never been told before.

Stay tuned to Roar Media’s social channels to watch the project unfold.

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Business

SL’s economic outlook for 2026 being shaped by M-E conflict

Published

23 hours ago

2026/04/11

Thilina Walpola

The top table at the ADB media briefing

Sri Lanka’s economic growth is expected to moderate to 4.0% in 2026 and climb to 4.2% in 2027, following two consecutive years of strong 5.0% growth.

This forecast is based on an early stabilization scenario for the Middle East conflict, according to the Asian Development Outlook (ADO) April 2026, Asian Development Bank’s (ADB) flagship economic publication. Sri Lanka’s recovery held firm in 2025 despite the late-year disruption of Cyclone Ditwah. Private consumption surged amid low inflation and easing interest rates, while remittances hit a record high, as did the primary budget surplus. The current account posted a third consecutive surplus, and official reserves climbed to their strongest level in years.

The outlook for 2026 is increasingly shaped by the conflict in the Middle East, even as post-Ditwah reconstruction spending provides some support for growth. Private consumption will remain the main growth driver, though higher inflation will temper household spending power, and private investment is expected to recover only gradually amid heightened uncertainty.

Higher energy costs, potentially weaker remittance inflows, and disruptions to trade and tourism will weigh on household incomes and external buffers and drag on economic growth. Inflation is projected to accelerate sharply to 5.2% in 2026, driven largely by the Middle East conflict.

“Sri Lanka has come a long way since the recent economic crisis, and its economic performance over the last two years is a major achievement,” said ADB Country Director for Sri Lanka Shannon Cowlin. “However, the risks ahead are real and significant. This is not the moment to ease up on reforms. Fiscal discipline must be maintained and resilience must be strengthened against the external shocks that will keep testing this economy. At the same time, scaling up and executing public investment will be essential to sustaining the recovery.”

ADB is a leading multilateral development bank supporting sustainable, inclusive, and resilient growth across Asia and the Pacific. Working with its members and partners to solve complex challenges together, ADB harnesses innovative financial tools and strategic partnerships to transform lives, build quality infrastructure, and safeguard our planet. Founded in 1966, ADB is owned by 69 members—50 from the region.(ADB)

Business

Hameedia unveils “Threads of Culture”

Published

23 hours ago

2026/04/11

Thilina Walpola

This Avurudu season, Hameedia introduces its latest campaign, “Threads of Culture,” celebrating the traditions that connect generations while embracing a more conscious and forward-thinking approach to fashion.

Rooted in the spirit of Sinhala and Hindu New Year, the campaign highlights the importance of preserving culture while evolving with modern values. This year, Hameedia places a strong emphasis on ethical and sustainable fashion, encouraging customers to move away from fast and imitation fashion towards quality, authenticity, and responsible choices.

As part of this shift, Hameedia presents a refreshed festive collection crafted using lightweight cotton and linen fabrics, designed specifically for Sri Lanka’s climate. The collection focuses on breathability, comfort, and timeless style, offering customers clothing that is both practical and refined for the season.

Commenting on the campaign, Fouzul Hameed, Managing Director of Hameedia, stated, “Avurudu is a time of renewal, reflection, and meaningful connection. With ‘Threads of Culture,’ we wanted to go beyond celebration and inspire a shift in mindset, encouraging Sri Lankans to choose authenticity over imitation, quality over quantity, and responsibility over convenience. As a homegrown brand, we take pride in upholding craftsmanship and ethical practices, and we believe fashion should not only look good but also do good.”

Marking a key milestone in its expansion, Hameedia is also set to open its newest outlet in Galle, further strengthening its presence across the island and making its signature craftsmanship more accessible to customers in the southern region.

Business

Colombo Shopping Festival 2026 declared open for 5 days of Avurudu Shopping

Published

23 hours ago

2026/04/11

Thilina Walpola

The much-anticipated 41st Edition of the Colombo Shopping Festival (CSF) – Avurudu Fair was ceremonially declared open at the BMICH Exhibition Centre, marking the beginning of five exciting days of festive shopping in celebration of the Sinhala and Tamil New Year.

The ceremonial opening commenced with the traditional lighting of the oil lamp on 8th April 2026, in the presence of guests, industry leaders, and invitees. Organized by Aitken Spence Conventions and Exhibitions, the event continues to reinforce its position as one of Sri Lanka’s premier consumer exhibitions.

Running from 8th to 12th April 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily, the Colombo Shopping Festival brings together over 200+ Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) from across the island, offering a vibrant marketplace that supports local businesses while delivering exceptional value to shoppers.

This year’s Avurudu Fair promises an unmatched retail experience, featuring a wide range of products including fashion, lifestyle, homeware, beauty, and more. Visitors can shop top brands such as Boss, EL Holdings, Vantage, Miniso, Governor Shirts, Edge Casual, Avirate, Cetaphil, Phoenix, Rite Shu and many more top brands, alongside a diverse selection of Indian stalls offering exclusive collections at massive discounts.

The festival creates the perfect opportunity for families and shoppers to prepare for the New Year with unbeatable deals, festive offers, and a lively atmosphere filled with seasonal excitement.

With its strong legacy and continued commitment to empowering local entrepreneurs, the Colombo Shopping Festival stands as a key highlight in Sri Lanka’s event calendar—bringing together commerce, culture, and celebration under one roof.