Life style

New Year is greeted in muted fashion as leaders warn, Covid loves a crowd

Published

4 years ago

2021/12/26

Many people will want to put 2020 firmly behind them. But governments around the world 2022 with traditional New Year’s Eve parties and street celebrations for fear of accelerating the spread of coronavirus.

The United Kingdom, France, Germany, Ireland, India and Australia are among the many nations where this year’s New Year festivities remained a muted affair.

Exactly a year has passed since mysterious cases of pneumonia in Wuhan, China, were first reported to the World Health Organization. Over the following 365 days, Covid-19 has extended its reach into every corner of the globe, infecting more than 82 million people and causing at least 1.8 million deaths.

Millions of people are under lockdown and many more face tough restrictions on everyday activities as governments battle to keep health care systems afloat until newly approved vaccines can be rolled out.

he Sydney Harbour fireworks display is seen over a near-empty Sydney Opera House.

In Australia, the traditional firework display lit up the skies above the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge.

But the display was shorter than usual and people were banned from gathering along the harbor unless they were in hospitality venues, where numbers were capped, the New South Wales government said.

New South Wales Premier Gladys Berejiklian apologized Monday for the restrictions but said they were necessary to prevent a potential super-spreading event. “On New Year’s Eve, we don’t want any crowds on the foreshores around Sydney whatsoever,” Berejiklian said.

A mass gathering on Sydney’s Bronte Beach on Christmas Day, in breach of local anti-Covid-19 rules, caused public outcry at a time when authorities are tackling a cluster of infections in the city’s northern beaches area.

Meanwhile, the neighboring state of Victoria will issue fresh coronavirus restrictions hours before New Year’s Eve celebrations . Gatherings of more than 15 people are no longer allowed and masks are mandatory indoors.

The move came as Victoria reported three new locally transmitted Covid-19 cases , breaking a 61-day streak of zero locally transmitted cases. There are currently 10 active cases in the state, according to Victoria’s Department of Health.

New Zealand’s widely envied success in stamping out coronavirus infections meant New Year’s Eve could be celebrated more or less as usual. Fireworks lit up the night sky above Auckland as the city will welcome in the New Year.

In Hong Kong, the traditional New Year’s celebrations will be replaced by a virtual countdown with the Hong Kong Tourism Board live streaming a celebratory video to mark the arrival of the New Year.

In China, President Xi Jinping will deliver a taped New Year speech praising the country for its response to the pandemic.

Fireworks will go ahead as planned in Taiwan’s Taipei, although some restrictions will be placed on those attending public viewing spots. According to the Taipei city government’s website, masks are mandatory and peopleare required to bring their cell phones for possible contact tracing. Food and drinks other than water will be banned at the gatherings

People will enjoy the music in the Americas Cup Village during New Year’s Eve celebrations in Auckland, .

Several major cities in India already issued restrictions on New Year’s celebrations. Authorities in Delhi limited public gatherings to five people and will impos an overnight curfew

Restrictions will also imposed in Mumbai and Bengaluru. no parties — whether they are in restaurants, bars, pubs, the beach or on rooftops will be allowed… And we will be monitoring all this through drones,” S. Chaitanya, a spokesperson for Mumbai Police, told local media.

The rate of coronavirus infections has declined steadily in India since October. The country has registered a total of 10.26 million cases, with more than 148,000 deaths.

‘Leave the parties till later’

In Europe, where cases have risen sharply in recent months, the usual end-of-year festivities have been heavily restricted in many countries.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson urged people to “see in the New Year safely at home” at a Downing Street press briefing he said there had been a 40% increase in cases in England in the past week.

Ireland situation ‘extremely serious’

Ireland’s Prime Minister, or Taoiseach, Micheál Martin, will announce a full national lockdown The step followed confirmation that the new, more virulent strain of coronavirus first discovered in the UK was now in Ireland, he said, fueling a 61% increase in confirmed coronavirus cases on the previous week.

The restrictions, which will come into force , include a ban on household visits and the closure of non-essential shops. Schools will remain closed until January 11. No social or family gatherings are allowed in any setting, with an exception for very small wedding and funeral groups.

Martin described the situation as “extremely serious.”

In France, a strict curfew will be in place in a bid to stem rising coronavirus infections, curtailing public New Year’s Eve celebrations across the country. Instead, a virtual concert marked the occasion.

Health Minister Olivier Véran warned that the country could adopt an earlier curfew — starting from 6 p.m. — from January 2 in the areas where the virus is spreading fastest. The 20 or more “departments” affected do not include Paris.

Under government guidelines, gatherings are limited to six adults, although any number of children can be present. Restaurants are closed except for takeaway and cafés are closed, although shops, including non-essential shops, are open. Cinemas, museums and theaters are all closed.

Tough restrictions are also in place across Germany to limit the spread of coronavirus. In the Greek capital of Athens, fireworks will mark the beginning of 2022 without the usual crowds. The city will be under a strict lockdown with residents only allowed to leave their homes in specific situation and with a movement permit.

‘Super-spreader events’ fear

South Africa, too, will face a less than festive New Year period. President Cyril Ramaphosa will announce tougher restrictions as new coronavirus infections climbed at what he described as an “unprecedented rate.”

Under the tougher regulations, which are in place until mid-January, all indoor and outdoor gatherings are banned, the nationwide curfew has been extended from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. and alcohol sales are banned. Mask wearing was also made a legal requirement.

The move came after a new Covid-19 variant was detected in South Africa and cases surged during the festive season. More than 50,000 new cases have been reported since Christmas Eve, Ramaphosa said.

“The rapid rise in infections is being fueled by so-called super-spreader events, including end-of-year functions, family and social gatherings, and music and cultural events,” Ramaphosa said.

Some leaders have also urged caution in the United States as coronavirus cases soar in many parts of the country.

No crowds will be allowed to enter New York City’s Times Square this year for the famous “ball drop” celebration, usually witnessed by thousands of revelers.

The New Year’s Eve Times Square event “will look completely different than it has any other time in history,” New York Police Department chief Terence A. Monahan said. – BBC

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Life style

Beauty of Sri Lanka in focus: Global showcase blends art, diplomacy and conservation

Published

2 days ago

2026/04/12

Thilina Walpola

Ambassador Jovita Neliupsiene, Head of the EU Delegation to the US, and Mahinda Samarasinghe, Ambassador of Sri Lanka to the US, joined a special viewing of the exhibition

By Ifham Nizam

The sixth edition of the “Beauty of Sri Lanka” Photography Exhibition is set to unfold across North America this April, transforming the power of visual storytelling into a compelling platform for cultural diplomacy, environmental advocacy and nation branding.

Organised by the America Sri Lanka Photographic Art Society in collaboration with key diplomatic and institutional partners, including the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Washington, D.C., the Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka to the United Nations, the Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Los Angeles and Toronto, and the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, the exhibition will run from April 22 to May 4 across Los Angeles, Toronto, New York and Washington, D.C.

Held in conjunction with Earth Day, the exhibition continues to evolve as a globally recognised initiative that brings together art, conservation and international engagement. What began as a photography showcase has now matured into a dynamic soft-power platform that tells Sri Lanka’s story to the world—through its landscapes, biodiversity, and deeply rooted cultural heritage.

Photographers from Sri Lanka at Nigara State Park

The 2026 tour will feature prestigious venues that reflect its growing international stature. These include the iconic Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre International, Metro Hall in Toronto—marking the exhibition’s debut in Canada—the Permanent Mission in New York, and the Sri Lankan Embassy in Washington, D.C., as part of the widely celebrated Passport D.C. event. Each venue represents not only a geographic expansion but also a widening of the exhibition’s global audience and influence.

Exhibition

At its heart, “Beauty of Sri Lanka” is a vivid narrative of a nation’s natural and cultural wealth. From the mist-covered central highlands and pristine coastal belts to dense rainforests teeming with endemic wildlife, the exhibition captures Sri Lanka’s ecological richness through the lenses of talented photographers. These images serve as both an invitation to explore and a reminder of the urgent need to protect fragile ecosystems.

This year’s programme takes a significant step further by integrating real-world environmental action. The “ReTree Los Angeles” initiative, launched in line with Earth Day, focuses on tree planting, urban restoration and community engagement. It also includes a children’s painting competition aimed at fostering environmental awareness among the younger generation. Organisers believe that nurturing creativity at an early age can instil a lifelong commitment to conservation.

Adding a scientific dimension to the event, Dr. Sarath Gunapala will deliver the keynote address on “The Journey of Infrared Photography,” exploring how advanced imaging techniques can reveal unseen dimensions of the natural world. His participation highlights the exhibition’s interdisciplinary approach, where art meets science to deepen understanding and appreciation.

The exhibition will also feature a vibrant cultural segment designed to immerse international audiences in Sri Lanka’s living traditions. A carefully curated lineup of performances—including the sacred Wes Pooja, the dramatic Naga Raksha mask dance, the rhythmic Thelme ritual dance and the light-hearted Salu Paliya—will bring to life the island’s folklore, rituals and performing arts heritage. These performances are expected to add colour, rhythm and emotional depth to the visual experience offered by the photographic displays.

ASPAS President Suria Perera emphasised that the exhibition is more than a display of images. “It is a celebration of Sri Lanka’s identity—its natural beauty, its cultural vibrancy, and its responsibility to future generations,” she said. “Through photography and community engagement, we aim to inspire a deeper connection between people and the environment.”

Over the years, the exhibition has drawn a diverse audience, including diplomats, policymakers, conservationists, art collectors and members of the Sri Lankan diaspora. Its ability to connect these varied groups underscores its role as a bridge between cultures, fostering dialogue and mutual understanding while strengthening Sri Lanka’s global presence.

The continued support of diplomatic missions, cultural institutions and tourism authorities has been instrumental in elevating the exhibition’s profile. Their collaboration reinforces the role of art as a powerful tool in shaping perceptions, building partnerships and promoting sustainable tourism.

As the 2026 edition prepares to open its doors, “Beauty of Sri Lanka” stands as a testament to the island nation’s enduring appeal and its commitment to conservation. It is not merely an exhibition, but a movement—one that celebrates beauty, inspires responsibility and connects Sri Lanka to the world through the universal language of art.

Life style

Vibrant celebration of tradition and togetherness

Published

2 days ago

2026/04/12

Thilina Walpola

This holiday season, City of Dreams Sri Lanka invites guests to step into the heart of a truly Sri Lankan celebration with Signature Avurudu—a four-day cultural experience taking place.

Blending time-honoured traditions with contemporary flair, the festivities promise to capture the spirit of the Aluth Avurudda (Sinhala and Tamil New Year) in all its colour, rhythm, and warmth. From the moment guests arrive, they will be welcomed into a space transformed with festive décor, echoing the charm of a village celebrations brought to life in the city.

At the centre of the celebration is the Pahan Pujava, a symbolic lamp lighting ceremony led by the management, setting a tone of unity, prosperity, and new beginnings. This meaningful ritual reflects the essence of the New Year—a time to pause, reflect, and step into the new year with hope and positivity.

Throughout the four days, guests can experience the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka through a series of traditional performances. The rhythmic beats of raban and drums, alongside vibrant dance acts, will fill the air, creating an atmosphere that is both nostalgic and celebratory. Adding to the experience are elegantly dressed Sri Lankan hostesses, offering a warm, authentic welcome that embodies the island’s renowned hospitality.

No Avurudu celebration is complete without its flavours, and City of Dreams Sri Lanka delivers a feast to remember. Guests can indulge in an array of traditional sweets and savouries, alongside curated Avurudu-themed buffets and creative beverages inspired by local ingredients. Passing canapés and festive treats ensure there is something to enjoy at every turn—whether you’re reminiscing over childhood favourites or discovering new twists on beloved classics.

Designed as a celebration for all, Signature Avurudu brings together families, friends, and visitors from around the world to share in the joy of the season. It is a reminder that Avurudu is more than a festival—it is a feeling of togetherness, renewal, and shared happiness.

This April, celebrate the sights, sounds, and tastes of Avurudu at City of Dreams Sri Lanka—where tradition meets modern celebration, and every moment feels like home.

Life style

Thomian sailors secure many medals in India

Published

2 days ago

2026/04/12

Thilina Walpola

Thomian sailors witj official

Students of S. Thomas’ College recently demonstrated commendable performance at two international sailing events held in India: the inaugural Indian Sailing Regatta and the 4th North-East Regatta. Both events featured participation from foreign teams, including Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Malaysia, Russia, Great Britain, South Korea, Singapore, and India.

The inaugural Indian Sailing League (ISL), held at Umiam Lake, Shillong, India, marked a significant milestone in the sport and was prominently featured in The Times of India. The ISL is a first-of-its-kind franchise-based sailing league, bringing together 14 teams, 182 sailors, and 58 international participants from eight countries.

The ISL follows a concept similar to the Cricket Indian Premier League, where top sailors are “bid” and selected into franchise teams representing different regions. The competition introduced an innovative team-based format in which the best sailor from each team in each category competed, combining multiple race formats such as fleet racing, team racing, marathon races, and rig-and-race challenges. This pioneering structure, widely regarded as a first in global sailing history, has significantly enhanced the spectator appeal and competitive depth of the sport, while promoting youth, women, and high-performance sailing on a single platform.

At the first Indian Sailing Regatta, in the Boys’ Optimist category, Haren Wickramatillake secured 3rd place and was also awarded a special medal for his courage during the rig and race event. Dhiren Perera achieved 3rd place in the rig and race event alongside his team member.

At the 4th North-East Regatta, performances continued to be noteworthy. In the Main Optimist Boys category, Haren Wickramatillake was placed 6th, while Shem Fernando secured 19th place out of 32 participants. In the Junior Green Fleet Optimist Boys category, Anuruth Tennakoon achieved 2nd place and Dhiren Perera was placed 4th out of 10 participants. In the ILCA 4 Boys category, Akaine Ubayasiri was placed 11th out of 22 participants.

These achievements highlight the high level of skill, determination, and sportsmanship demonstrated by the young sailors, while also reflecting Sri Lanka’s strong presence in an emerging and globally significant sailing platform.

Upcoming international sailing events, featuring students of S. Thomas’ College, include the Asian Beach Games 2026, to be held in China ,in April 2026, and the International Optimist Dinghy Association (IODA) competition, scheduled to take place at Port City, in Sri Lanka, in December 2026. These events will provide valuable international exposure and further opportunities for the young college sailors to compete at a high level.