Life style
Pioneer who changed the beat of cardiac care in Sri Lanka
Heart to heart Dr. Rajitha de Silva
Dr. Rajitha Y de Silva is a pioneering cardiac surgeon whose work in minimally invasive and keyhole surgery marks a breakthrough in the nation’s medical field. His innovative approach has transformed cardiac care, allowing patients to recover faster with small incisions and less pain – a true milestone at the Sri Jayewardenepura General Hospital where his quiet dedication and precision have saved countless lives.
In a world often driven by accolades and fame, Dr. Rajitha remains grounded, finding fulfillment in the smiles of his recovered patients and the gratitude of families who once feared the worst. His contribution extends beyond the operating theatre, it’s a story of courage, compassion and quiet leadership.
In the softly lit corridors of Jayewardenepura General Hospital, Dr Rajitha’s confidence has transformed the experience of countless patients at Jayewardenepura hospital, offering procedures that are less invasive, faster in recovery and deeply precise. He has shaped the countless lives that pass through its doors. Dr Rajitha Y de Silva has spent his life combining medical expertise with a deep, unwavering compassion.
Known for his quiet determination to save lives, Dr Rajitha turned his vision into reality through the Heart to Heart Trust Fund, an initiative that has restored hope to countless families who once faced despair. Every surgery facilitated by the Trust carries a story of ,hope, restored, families, reunited and lives transformed, each contribution, each operation, and each recovered heart beat reflects the Trust’s vision-to make quality heart care accessible to all, regardless of financial barriers.
Doctor Rajitha de Silva, Consultant Cardiothoracic Surgeon has become a symbol of compassion and commitment in Sri Lanka’s medical landscape. Through this initiative of Heart to Heart Trust Fund, he has touched the lives of over 6,000 patients providing access to life, saving hearts and whose heart itself beats for the people he cares. A graduate of the University of Colombo Medical Faculty of Medicine, Dr Rajitha pursued advanced training in cardiac and minimally invasive surgery abroad ,mastering techniques that had later transformed heart care in Sri Lanka
Yet despite opportunities to practice overseas Rajitha returned home, bringing global expertise to serve his community Bringing hope back to every heartbeat, Dr. Rajitha has transformed not techniques but lives. His surgical precision and gentle manner have given countless patients a second chance to live, people who once believed that the future was measured in heart beats now walk out of his care with renewed strength and faith.
But beyond the operating theatre, Dr. Rajitha’s legacy lies in a different kind of heart work, one that reaches far beyond hospital walls.
The Heart to Heart Trust Fund co-founded by Dr. Rajitha de Silva and Dr. Rawan Ekanayake was born out of a single powerful belief to address the challenges faced by patients requiring urgent heart surgery but lacking the financial means to afford treatment. The Fund operates with the mission that no one should die of a heart ailment because they cannot afford surgery” Since in 2014 ,the Fund has been dedicated to transforming lives with quiet determination and unwavering care for over a decade, this Fund has been a beacon of hope for patients unable to meet the soaring costs of cardiac procedures operating from base at Sri Jayewardenepura Hospital.
The Trust has funded hundreds of life saving surgeries, each case a story of fear transformed into relief, despair into hope. His dedication is quiet but absolute, driven not by recognition but by a commitment to save lives.
From the elderly bread winner who could no longer climb stairs to the young mother who wanted to live enough to see her child’s first day in school, the Trust has given life to those where there was once only uncertainty. Through creative fundraising initiatives like Abayadhana, the Gift of Life patients who cannot afford the high cost of cardiac surgery receive vital assistance. Each contribution-from individuals, families and corporate donors-directly fund procedures that give the Gift of Life to those most in need. This Gift of Life stands as a living expression of kindness within Sri Lanka’s healthcare landscape Since its inception, Abayadhana has helped hundreds of patients to undergo lifesaving heart surgeries, restoring health, dignity and hope. It continues to grow through community support, embodying the Gift of Life to those most in need.
Dr de Silva’s humility is as remarkable as his skill.
In 2024 the Heart to Heart Trust Fund was officially incorporated into the Act of Parliament giving it legal recognition and sustainability.
This milestone initiative ensures that the Fund’s mission is to provide equal access to cardiac care that will continue for generations to come. It must be said with pride that the Heart to Heart trust Fund brings us back to what truly matters-the human connection, each life saved, each surgery funded and each smile restored stands as a testament to the power of compassion.
Today, as Dr. de Silva continues his tireless work, his message remains simple but profound. He believes that no one should be denied lifesaving treatment simply because they cannot afford it. Even the smallest act of kindness he often says can help a heart to beat again.
Under Dr Rajitha’s guidance, the Trust has sponsored hundreds of surgeries and touched thousands of lives. The impact goes beyond medical treatment; it restores dignity, hope and faith in humanity
A doctor of quiet determination, tirelessly pursuing the best outcomes for his patients, even when the odds are stacked against them.
Looking ahead, Dr. de Silva hopes to expand the Trust’s reach across the country, creating hospitals, and introducing educational programmed in hospitals focussing on preventive heart care. This cardiac surgeon, rather than creating a charity, has built a legacy. A legacy of empathy, courage and the quiet determination to ensure that every heartbeat matters. Today, the Heart to Heart stands as a symbol of hope .
Dr. Rajitha is deeply committed to public health and preventive care. He regularly conducts lectures and workshops on lifestyle programmes,heart health awareness and prevention reaching communities and schools. He strongly believes that prevention is as vital as treatment, This cardiac surgeon today stands as a surgeon, mentor and visionary, whose legacy is written not only in lives saved but in hearts touched.
By Zanita Careem
Life style
Aslam Hussein’s Couture and Trousseau
At Colombo Fashion Week,held recently at Cinnamon Grand,designer Aslam Hussein delivered a collection that spoke the language of quiet confidence and refined glamour, positioning him firmly as a Fashion Edit, favourite this season.
‘His collection unfolded like a carefully composed symphony – each piece moving with a rhythm of elegance and poise. Aslam Hussein’s runaway was more than a presentation – it was a story of refined luxury, individuality and timeless beauty where couture met emotion and each garment became a living expression of artistry.
Colombo Fashion Week was held this November at Cinnamon Grand ,namely Couture + Trousseau . The event was part of the luxury edit focused on high fashion,bridal wear and destination wedding,celebrating CFW’’s 22 rd anniversary Aslam Hussein opened the runway and his collection balanced sharp tailoring with fluid silhouettes, creating looks that felt both modern and enduring. Clean lines, thoughtful construction and an understated palette allowed craftsmanship to take centre stage. The colour palette was muted yet rich, allowing texture and craftsmanship to speak. Luxurious fabrics caught the light with every step, revealing subtle interplay between movement and form. Each silhouette told a story of – timeless, modern and effortless elegance
Fluid silhouettes, muted palettes and clean tailoring defined his collection.
On the ramp,models moved with understated confidence, their hairstyles were created by. Ramani Fernando salons,the soft luminous makeup complemented the collection’s quiet sophistication. Each silhouette reflected Aslam’s commitment to craftsmanship, versatility and timeless style. Since establishing his label, he has been a staple on Sri Lanka’s fashion calendar, consistently presenting at Colombo Fashion Weeks and earning recognition for his designs.
His collection this year re-affirmed his mastery of understated elegance and contemporary luxury. Neutral tones were punctioned with occasion, deep shades, allowing fabric, cut and texture to take centre stage. Models carried the collection with measured poise. Make up was luminous yet natural, letting the silhouettes and individual model presence shine. Through his designs, Aslam Huseein has cultivated a following among modern cosmopolitan clientele who appreciate understated glamour, versatility and the quiet power of elegance.
His contributions have solidified his reputation as a designer who bridges Sri Lanka’s rich fashion heritage with an international sensibility.
Colombo Fashion Week is Sri Lanka’s premier event, showcasing the country’s top designers alongside emerging talent and is one of the glamorous events in the fashion landscape. The visionary is Ajay Vir Singh, founder of Colombo Fashion Week, whose leadership continues to elevate Sri Lanka’s premier fashion platform to international level.
Life style
Hairstyle maestro: Niroshan at Ramani Fernando salon at Mount Lavinia
Ramani Fernando salons is a name that has taken men and women’s grooming to new heights since its inception at Mount Lavinia. The salon has made its mark on the locals and celebrities alike. Over the years, Ramani Fernando Salons has not just set a benchmark for luxury grooming services but has also redefined how men perceive self-care, hair styling, and professional grooming. This salon at Mount Lavinia under its Manager Kappitiya Godage, namely Niroshan known by clients has become a favourite destination for those who sought more than just a haircut. The salon introduces a range of services—from precision styling and beard grooming to men’s makeup for photoshoots. The manager at Mount Lavinia is Niroshan Suresh. His philosophy emphasized that grooming is not just about appearance but also about confidence and self-expression and most importantly – self-care. He says make-up and grooming are not just limited to the opposite gender!
What makes Ramani Fernando Salon at Mount stand out. It is its innovative style and technique to men and women’s grooming. This branch prides itself on using cutting-edge tools and premium products that ensure every client leaves with a polished, customized look. The salon focus is on continuous learning and staying ahead of trends has earned it the loyalty of a discerning clientele.
Working at Ramani salons, Niroshan has spent many years perfecting the craft of styling, cutting and grooming men’s and woman’s hair, blending technical skill with a keen understanding of contemporary fashion trends. With years of experience, he guides clients on hairstyles and on the selection and proper use of styling products. His presence at Ramani Fernando salon at Mount Lavinia reinforce the brand’s reputation for excellence but also highlights the vital role of a skilled male stylist in shaping men and women’s grooming culture in Sri Lanka.
In the evolving world of men’s grooming, where style isn’t just about guiding a haircut but crafting a confident identity Niroshan at Mount Lavinia represent more than just a stylist or a place to cut hair. With Niroshan at the helm, this salon has become a place where style, innovation and meticulous grooming are curated for any client who walks in.
He is part of Ramani Fernando salons creative team, and brings creativity and precision to every look reflecting the high standards of Ramani Fernando’s renowned beauty collection
Niroshan has been with Ramani Fernando for several years and he is popular among his clients for those seeking sharp, modern and personalised hairstyles. With many years of experience, he has combined technical expertise with an eye for current trends ensuring each client leaves the salon looking confident and polished, Niroshan begins with a consultation, he carefully considers face shape, hair texture and personal style before recommending a look: He tailors each style to suit individual preferences, while ensuring easy to maintenance.
Beyond haircuts and grooming, his services include beard shaping, scalp and hair treatments and guidance on styling products. He makes each client of his leave the salon not just with a haircut but walk with confidence. He enjoys seeing his clients happy and self-assured. His experience, professionalism and knowledge make him a standard stylist in Colombo’s competitive grooming scene. He is very grateful to his senior and dynamic hairdresser Kamal for his guidance and expertise and who has been instrumental in shaping his approach to styling and artistry
by Zanita Careem ✍️
Life style
The Kingsbury, Colombo, Welcomes Season of Splendour
The Kingsbury, Colombo, welcomes the festive season with a spirit of warmth, elegance and celebration. This year’s Christmas and New Year offerings have been curated to bring guests together through moments of comfort, connection and shared joy across the hotel.
Harbour Court sets the tone for the season with its Christmas Eve Dinner Buffet, Christmas Day Brunch and Christmas Dinner on 24th and 25th December, followed by the New Year’s Eve Dinner Buffet on 31st December and the New Year’s Day Lunch and Dinner Buffets on 1st January. Kings Steakbar brings festive fine dining to Colombo with its Sunday Gourmet Carvery every Sunday in December, the Christmas Gourmet Carvery on 24th and 25th December, an á la carte Christmas Dinner on Christmas Day and a Seven-course Gourmet Dinner on New Year’s Eve.
Yue Chuan offers authentic Chinese cuisine with its signature Peking Duck Experience throughout December, daily Dim Sum and a special All You Can Eat menu on 24th, 25th and 31st December. At Tenk?, guests can enjoy elegant Japanese cuisine with the daily Teppanyaki Show, festive á la carte menus on 24th and 25th December and a New Year’s Eve Tasting Menu. Ocean highlights the best of coastal cuisine with festive á la carte menus on 24th, 25th and 31st December. Bringing Sri Lankan authenticity to the season, Tavern presents an Arrack Tasting Experience throughout December.
Festive cheer continues outdoors at Honey Beach Club with live music from 19th to 23rd December, poolside Festive party packages, and the signature New Year’s Eve celebration “Dancing Into 2026,” featuring Infinity and DJ E2. At Sky Lounge, guests can enjoy elevated festivities with Corporate Celebration packages, festive set menus, seasonal cocktails and the New Year’s Eve event “Party in the Sky,” featuring The Kingdom. Seas
For those celebrating at home, The Kingsbury offers Seasonal Roasts and festive hampers, available both ready-made and customisable, while Indulgence provides five-star delivery throughout the season. Families can also enjoy special offers, with children below six dining free and children aged six to ten receiving 50% off buffet dining. Seasonal cocktails, wine menus and bottle deals are available across all outlets.
This year, The Kingsbury, Colombo, invites guests to embrace the season with kindness, hope and cherished moments. Whether dining out, gathering with loved ones or gifting thoughtfully, we are honoured to share a season of splendour with you.
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