Life style
Indra makes Sri Lanka proud
Indra Kuruppu, a senior researcher at the Economics Section of the Parliamentary Research Centre of the Parliament of Australia Articulate, has with a penchant for political science nurtured through undergraduate studies at the university of Peradeniya. She owes her knowledge to Dr. K. H. Jayasinghe, Professor of Political Science at Peradeniya and all other senior lecturers, Dr Ranjith Amarasinghe, Dr KC Perera who helped her achieve her
objectives.
BY Zanita Careem
Indra Kuruppu a Sri Lankan domiciled Down Under has been a longstanding member of the Economic Policy section of the Australia Parliament Library.
For 30 years Indra’s contribution in this senior position has won the acclaim of the members of the Australian Parliament. Until her retirement recently. I provide information and analytical research and advise on policy matters to members of the Senate and their staff, Parliamentary Committees and the office of the Governor-General.
A student of Ladies College Colombo, she enters the university of Peradeniya where she excelled in both curricular and extra activities After obtaining the degree she was attached to the Asian Institute of Technology Bangkok, (Thailand) and the University of Tasmania. Later migrated to Australia with her family. Her work experience gave her the opportunity to excel in her profession and soon after she joined the Parliament as a senior researcher. This was her stepping stone to success
The speaker of the Parliament and MP Smith Tony and MP described Indra as a well liked, well known and well respected member of Parliament team.
Knowing Indra from my campus days (she was my junior) I knew she was passionate about global issues, and a vivid reader on political history and political thoughts.
The speaker of Australian Parliament. Smith Tony paid a great tribute to her work. He said she is a well known and well respected member of the library team. She is also well versed about political. and economic affairs He complimented herwhen he said. “Whenever I asked Indra about policy and research matters, she had the answers at the finger tips. This is a rare trait, which I did not come across among other working women, She is a fountain of knowledge and experience.
Q How interesting is your job
Over the years my research has led me to meet with many politicians, and. I came to realise they differ immensely from what we hear or see in the newspapers which are generally unflattering. The Prime Ministers from Bob Hawke to Scott Morrison and even the leaders of the opposition have been extraordinary hard working. I was very impressed about their simplicity and their memorable speeches andalso down-to-earth personalities. Their memorable speeches still linger in my memory.
Q: Some of the highlights
I witnessed the PM’ Kevin Rudd delivering the Parliamentary national apology to stolen generations in February 2008. I also saw Julia Gillard being sworn in as the first woman Prime Minister. The most interesting aspect was listening to Prime Minister Julia Gillad’s Misogyny speech in October 2020 on alleged sexism by the then leader of the opposition, Tony Abbott. I had the opportunity to see former parliamentary staffers and backbenchers now risen to high offices in the Parliament.
My most memorable moments are seeing many world leaders in the building among them was George Bush, Bill Clinton, George W Bush. Barack Obama, Nelson Mandela, Aung San Suu Kyi and Dalai Lama.
Q: Any Sri Lankan events that you participated
As a Sri Lankan Buddhist. I was happy to be present when a copy of the Dhammapada was presented to the Federal Parliament by the President of the Australians Federations of Buddhist Councils. This was placed during Henry Jenkin office in 2009, in the despatch box, on the central table in front of the Prime Minister. This indeed a rare opportunity
Being a Sri Lankan Buddhist. I was proud when it was kept in the despatch box on the central label in front of the Prime Minister.
Q: What are other memorable moments
(A) Being able to work under pressure and as a member of the team to provide facts and figures called for by a member of the senate and their staff for a debate in the chamber or a for a press conferences or a radio interview., The information I give has to be 100% accurate.
Working for politicians of different political aspirations, was not a a difficult task
Q: Did you feel any kind of discrimination being from an Asian country?
No not at all. I had the recognition factor I was speaking on the phone I am elated when the client would say “Is that Indra? I have no issues working with politicians who held the highest offices.
International Parliamentary Union, Commonwealth Parliament Association. during these conferences I am appointed as the Liaison officer for the Sri Lankan Parliamentary delegations. As I can speak the language and they were happy to have a Sri Lankan among them who can speak their language.
Indra retired recently and she was held in high esteem at the parliament.
Good luck!
Life style
SOS Wonder Village at One Galle Face Mall
SOS Children’s Villages Sri Lanka, in partnership with One Galle Face Mall Colombo, presented the SOS Wonder Village event, an initiative aimed at raising funds and awareness for the well-being of children in need.
The SOS Wonder Village took place at the Level 4 Playscape at One Galle Face Mall Colombo, recently
The SOS Wonder Village event at One Galle Face promises a day of fun, learning, and philanthropy. By participating, attendees will not only enjoy exciting activities but also contribute to the betterment of children’s lives.
The SOS Wonder Village event features an array of engaging activities for attendees of all ages. Visitors can enjoy free painting sessions for children, youth, and adults, and a variety of indoor games. Exciting prizes await competition winners. Participants will also be able to sponsor a child under the care of SOS Childrens’ Village by pledging a monthly or yearly donation which would be utilized for the child’s educational and living expenses. Additionally, attendees will have the opportunity to learn about child safeguarding and enjoy children’s videos, cartoons, and songs.
Commenting on the project, Mr.Divakar Ratnadurai, National Director, SOS Children’s Villages Sri Lanka said, “At SOS Children’s Villages Sri Lanka, our mission is to provide a loving family environment for children without parental care or at risk of losing it. Through the SOS Wonder Village event, we hope to not only raise funds but also increase awareness about the importance of child safeguarding and the support needed for these vulnerable children.”
SOS Children’s Villages Sri Lanka has been actively engaged in providing a stable, family-like environment for children for 42 years, operating 06 Children’s Villages and caring for over 800 children. The organization is dedicated to extending assistance to more than 3700 children at risk of losing their parents through the Direct Family Empowerment Programme.
Sharing his thoughts on this partnership, Mr. Sid Solanki, Centre Director, One Galle Face stated, “We are delighted to partner with SOS Children’s Villages Sri Lanka for this fun-filled yet meaningful event. One Galle Face and the Shangri-La Group is committed to our belief of “Do Good” and we look to support – initiatives that positively impact our community, through advocacy and positive action. We believe the SOS Wonder Village is uniquely positioned to enhance the quality of life and provide much needed access to education and other opportunities to many children in need.”
SOS Village Sri Lanka invites everyone to participate in the SOS Wonder Village and contribute in making a meaningful impact, spreading joy to those who need it most, creating a brighter future for every child.
Life style
Nyne Hotels: Redefining Hospitality with an All-Encompassing Sensory Experience
by Zanita Careem
Nayantara Fonseka, a successful entrepreneur, designer and interior decorator, affectionately known as Taru, has unveiled Nyne Hotels, creating a benchmark in hospitality. Having a keen eye for design and detailing,
she has turned her hotels into spaces where guests indulged in an experience, luxury and comfort throughout their stay. Her collection of luxury boutique hotels, has sophisticated interiors, decorative themes and immaculate service. An art collector, design afficionado and a creative power house, no doubt she claimed that she in the pioneer of boutique hotels in Sri Lanka that are architecturally unique.
Nayantara has introduced a fresh perspective to the world of hospitality. This visionary entrepreneur have re-define luxury, weaving her unique stories and experiences into the fabric of her properties. Why the change of name? She replied, it is now time to move on Nyne hotels is my new passion, she told the Sunday Island at the launch of Nyne. . With plans to open three more properties in Bentota 2024. Nyne hotels will be a brand that focuses on providing a holistic sensory experience for guests.
Nayantara Fonseka (Taru), launches Nyne Hotels, marking a new chapter in hospitality excellence and creativity. This transition isn’t merely a name change; it signifies the brand’s commitment to providing unparalleled experiences that engage with all nine senses (vision, hearing, smell, taste, touch, balance, intuition, time, and presence).
The significance of the number nine is rooted in completeness and culmination: at Nyne Hotels, it represents the pinnacle of our dedication to crafting extraordinary moments for our guests, where senses are indulged and experiences are transformative. “Our journey with Nyne Hotels is a testament to our passion for excellence and innovation in hospitality,” said Nayantara Fonseka , the founder and chairperson of Nyne Hotels. “We believe in going beyond the ordinary to create experiences that leave a lasting impression on our guests.”
Nyne Hotels isn’t just about accommodation; it’s about curating sensory journeys that revitalise the soul. From visually captivating designs to the aroma of exotic scents, from the melody of nature’s symphony to the tantalising flavours of culinary delights, Nyne Hotels invites guests on a voyage of discovery. “Our goal is to engage not just the traditional senses, but all nine senses,”. “We want our guests to experience their holiday in a way they’ve never imagined, to be fully present and immersed in the moment.”
The Nyne Hotels website www.nynehotels.com serves as a portal to this sensory world, inviting guests to explore our unique offerings and tailor their experiences to their preferences. From tranquil retreats to vibrant cultural hubs, each Nyne Hotels property offers a distinct ambience that celebrates local heritage and artistry.
Lake Lodge in Colombo is a contemporary green oasis, offering guests a quiet neighbourhood escape from the bustling city streets. Meanwhile, Rock Villa in Bentota embodies understated luxury, with its tropical bungalow architecture and sprawling gardens. The Muse, also in Bentota, exudes timeless style, while Leela Walauwwa in Induruwa evokes the charm of a bygone era. Landesi, which means ‘of Dutch origin’ in Sinhala, is a manor house set in the 17th-century Galle Fort, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Mayur Lodge – Yala is a hidden gem nestled amidst the ‘Chena’ farming community, and offers a contemporary villa in a jungle environment, on the outskirts of the famed safari destination, Yala National Park.
“Our properties are more than just hotels; they are reflections of their destination,”. “Each property tells a story, weaving together elements of local history, culture, and art to create an authentic experience for our guests. We are proud to say that we will be adding further properties to our portfolio by the end of 2024, including three in Bentota.”
At Nyne Hotels, art is more than decoration; it’s an integral part of the guest experience. From paintings and sculptures to installations and performances, art is woven into the fabric of each property, inviting guests to engage with their surroundings in new and unexpected ways. “Being passinate about creating, I understand the power of art to evoke emotion and inspire imagination,”. “That’s why we’re committed to showcasing local talent and supporting the arts in all its forms.”
In addition to its commitment to sensory indulgence and artistic expression, Nyne Hotels is dedicated to sustainability and social responsibility. From eco-friendly practices to community engagement initiatives, Nyne Hotels strives to make a positive impact on the world around it. “As stewards of the environment and champions of local communities, we believe in leaving a legacy that extends beyond our boundries,”. “By embracing sustainability and social responsibility, we can create a brighter future for generations to come.”
As Nyne Hotels continues to expand its portfolio, with new properties set to open in the coming year, the brand remains committed to its core values of excellence, creativity, and authenticity. From secluded retreats to vibrant urban escapes, Nyne Hotels welcomes guests on a journey of discovery, teaming with opportunities to engage their senses and nourish their souls. For more information and bookings, visit www.nynehotels.com.
Lake Lodge – Colombo: A Contemporary Retreat in the City
Secluded from the buzzing streets of Colombo, Lake Lodge is imbued with a heritage tracing back to 1967, the country’s first registered and officially recognised ‘Guest House’, the words used back then to describe this genre. . Lake Lodge is a welcome respite from the bustling city with ten attentively composed rooms. Expect top-tier service and privacy at all times. Dining at Table by Nyne promises a unique culinary journey, with a marriage of Sri Lankan and international cuisine that attracts a loyal local and cosmopolitan fanbase of diners.
Meanwhile, the discreet gallery of public and private spaces within the Lake Lodge property offers a feast for the eyes, showcasing over 50 works of art by renowned artists, including Priyantha Udagedara and Kingsley Gunatillake.
Rock Villa– Bentota: Tropical Bungalow by the Sea Surrounded by three acres of frangipani and meticulous rows of coconut trees, Rock Villa’s serene sanctuary encompasses a 180-year-old Walauwwa, the name given to ancestral heritage homes. The oft-imitated welcome popsicle, our blend of fresh mint and tangy passionfruit, sets the tone for an indulgent stay where every detail matters.
Filled with Sri Lankan collectables and a palette of white, beige and pops of turquoise, Rock Villa’s sprawling property is a laid-back tropical indulgence. Laze in an unspoiled beach beyond the single-track railway line, dip in one of the azure-blue pools, meander through the cooling mangroves, enter bliss in the spa or retreat into one of nine varied, well-appointed rooms.
Artfully-plated gastronomy and antique hand-carved wooden trellises for discretion elevate your stay from start to finish. An astounding display of over 90 pieces of work by celebrated local artists grace the walls of this silent art exposition.
The Muse – Bentota:Tranquil Seclusion with Artistic Flair
Tranquil and captivating, The Muse is where generous Sri Lankan hospitality enters absolute contentment. With nine divinely comfortable rooms and breezy open-plan living, it promises picture-postcard corners for an unforgettable family staycation or a quiet hideaway for two.
In this one-of-a-kind escape, step over the single gauge railway track and stroll across the powder-soft sea sand, feel quietness amongst mangroves, dip in the aquamarine pool or deep-dive into tantalising food.
Leela Walauwwa– Induruwa: A Heritage Haven of Serenity
Narrow winding roads snake through dense foliage to transport you to this rural manor house dating back two centuries. Its charming heritage promises to entice with colonial architecture, secret gardens and a gazebo made for meditation or reflection. Antique four poster beds in four supremely comfortable rooms and intricately-carved furniture give you more than a hint of the splendour of its past, immaculately restored to modern comfort.
Do take the opportunity of an art class led by the Villa Guardian, a well-known artist, to release the creativity in you. You’ll find it effortless, with the numerous works of art and sculpture surrounding you.
.Mayur Lodge – Yala: A Hidden Gem Within Nature
Off the beaten track, hidden away in the rural hinterlands on the outskirts of Yala National Park, Mayur Lodge is a four-acre retreat surrounded by nature. You will enjoy frequent sightings of the abundant birdlife and foraging peacocks and peahens after whom this lodge is aptly named: Mayur means peacock in Sanskrit.
. Landesi – Galle:A Stately Retreat Steeped in History
Landesi is Sinhala for ‘of Dutch origin’. Fitting, as this manor house graces the vicinity of a fort fortified by the Dutch in the 17th century, now a UNESCO World Heritage site. This stately house was designed and built by renowned architect Ashley de Vos, a conservationist of the Galle Fort who expertly retained the classic features of the period.
Inside, art by famous local artists including Laki Senanayake and several lithographs by Donald Friend enhance this house’s unique and special character. All around outside, are the feats of the mastery of culture and history to engage with.
Life style
When The Clock Strikes And The Wolf Howls”: Unveiled by Soul Sounds Players
In a fusion of creativity and passion, the Soul Sounds Players, under the guidance of renowned theater specialist Jerome L. De Silva, proudly present their latest theatrical endeavor, “When The Clock Strikes And The Wolf Howls.” What began as a humble course in musical theater has blossomed into an extraordinary creation that promises to captivate audiences with its depth, drama, and sheer originality.
The journey of the Soul Sounds Players commenced in October 2022 with a simple three-month course, but it soon evolved into a transformative two-year exploration of the possibilities inherent in the world of theater. Drawing from their collective imagination and ingenuity, the Players have crafted an exquisite production that defies convention and invites audiences into a world of family intrigue, mystery, and the complexities of war.
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