A Felicitation ceremony hosted by Marie-Noëlle Duris, Chargé d’affaires a.i, was  held to honour  to welcome athletes, para-athletes, coaches, presidents and members of the Olympic and Paralympic Committees who returned from Paris after participating in Olympics held in France.

Congratulations to athlete Samitha Dulan Kodithuwakku for winning the Silver medal in the Men’s F64 Javelin Finals at the Paris Paralympics Games.

Asanka de Mel with some invitees

Pix by Thushara Attapathu

Thilini Kumari Shehara , who represented Sri Lanka won the first place at the prestigious Miss International 2024 beauty pageant held in Indonesia at the scenic Island of Bali.

She competed with many contestants from 20 counties around the world. Known for her acting prowess Thilini has been the winner of many beauty pageants, in Sri Lanka. Hailing from Kandy, Pilimatalawe, she holds a degree in Bachelor of Arts from the University of Kelaniya. She has a string of many qualifications and now she reads for her PhD in Philosophy in Education.

Thilini Kumari’s journey from clinching the many prestigious titles, her illustrious career today is nothing short of inspiring. Through her hard work dedication and unwavering faith, she has carved a path that has not only defined her success but has also inspired countless others.

In this interview, she reflects on the highlights and challenges that have shaped her remarkable journey. An actress, TV star and a brand ambassadors for several prestigious brands. Thilini was also the winner of Miss Tourism in 2024.

A multifaceted personality Thilini, worked hard to lose weight, get in shape, improve her speech and build confidence.

With her mesmerizing and impeccable sense of style, Thilini never let the limelight define her.

When asked about her , Thilini said she will continue with her studies but will use her platform to advocate numerous social causes and programmes on women’s empowerment. Her dignified presence and strong moral compass have made her an enduring icon of compassion and determination

This sizzling beauty with brains stunned the audience in an stunning evening gown for the national dress parade.

An old girl of Mahamaya Central College, she is a beauty with brain. She is very much grateful to SriLankan Airlines for sponsoring an air ticket to Indonesia.

The Galadari Hotel hosted a cocktail bidding adieu to its successful 40 years in the industry as the hotel, hopes to come back under its new brand name Radisson Blue Galadari.

The grand cocktail was hosted by the General Manager Sampath Siriwardene was a way of saying ‘Thank You’ to all those who patronized the hotel and all those who contributed towards the hotel over the years. There was glitz, glamour and an unforgettable experience for those who were present.

The guests saw a vibrant champagne and wine reception combined with delicious canapies and live entertainment by popular violinist Roger Menez.While the grand décor of the spacious ballroom adorned with regal chandeliers and other ornate props were undeniably captivating, it was the heart felt speech made by the General Manager Sampath Siriwardena that truly stole the evening.

The invitees present included guests, business partners and members of the media. The hotel which is currently undergoing renovations was established in October 1984, under the name Galadari Meridian for a period of 11 years. The property then took the brand name Marriot for a further period of two years to thereafter becoming a stand-alone property for the longest period of 27 years.

After the renovations are completed the hotel hopes to create new waves in the hospitality industry. Complete with its new identity Radisson Blu Galadari will offer a better and promising era that will dawn for the property.

Pix by Thushara Attapathu