Life style
All eyes on Damith : The breakout face of clarence
The soul behind the strings
The story of Clarence Wijewardena, who rewrote the flow of Sinhala music with use of the electric guitar in the 60s. Produced by Thusitha Wijayasena, this musical drama is more than just a tribute, it’s a verse of generational nostalgia.
The lights dimmed, the screen flickered and a familiar melody floored through the theatre. For a moment, the audience forget they were watching a film. People felt as if Clarence Wijewardena himself had returned to sing. But on screen it was Damith Wijayathunga, a young actor and model stepping into the golden era of Sri Lankan music. This is his first cinematic role.
Damith had already built a name as Mister Sri Lanka in 2017 and Man of the World 2017 pageant in the Philippines, where he impressed judges with his physique, charisma and stage presence. These victories gave him a platform to build his reputation as one of the top models in the country.
Soon he became a TV presenter and also the face of fashion campaigns.
- A scene from the movie, Rhythm of the Guitar
- Feel the best, live the melody
- A night of music- winning all the way
Yet taking onthe film, Clarence Rhythm of the Guitar was different. It was a leap from bright runways and live studio sets into the intimate world of cinema “I didn’t want to copy the music icon Clarence” he remembers. I wanted to understand his heart beat, his rhythm. For months I practiced the guitar and even adapted the singer’s movements. It was an education in humility as much as music” he says.
Blessed with striking looks and a disciplined work ethic. Damith entered modelling while still in his early 20’s. As he reflects on the whirlwind years of his career he smiled and said “Clarence opened the door but it is up to me to walk through”.
Soon Damith became a familiar face, in the entertainment and modeling field winning many accolades and rave reviews.
Born in Matale, the eldest of the three children, he moved from Vijaya College to St. Thomas College and later to the Government Science College, before earning a Computer Science degree.
I modelled to pay through school, he reflects During his young days Damith entered into modelling, runway shows, where he was introduced to model Sameera Weerasinghe, under his guidance he took to modelling shows including Colombo Fashion Week. This mentorship played a significant role in shaping his career trajectory.
Also Brian Kerkovan , veteran pageant coach, provided him guidance when Damith represented Sri Lanka in the “Man of the World” Pageant 2017. “Sameea taught me to walk with confidence, Brian taught me to stand with purpose”, he recalls.
The discipline he picked up on the catwalk became the discipline he applied to guitar practice and script study for Clarence, the movie.
In 2025 he took the biggest leap of his career to play the role of Clarence in the movie “Rhythm of the Guitar.”
The former Mister Sri Lanka who had already carved out a name as model and TV actor but stepping into the shoes of the late Clarence Wijewardena, one of Sri Lanka’s most beloved musicians was entirely a different challenge. Directed by Theja Iddamalgoda, the film traces Clarence’s meteoric rise, his creative struggle and the enduring legacy of his music, Damith immersed himself in the role, studying old recordings, stage footage to mirror Clarence’s gentle charisma and unique stage presence.
” Clarence wasn’t just acting, he was living in a dream and heartbreak on screen. Damith said, “I felt a huge responsibility to honour him.”Damith reflects
The film has broadened Damith’s appeal beyond fashion and pageantry, winning him a new wave of fans who connect with his sensitivity and discipline on screen.
With the success of the movie Clarence, Damith’s calendar is filling fast. He is currently reading scripts for trio new movies, one of contemporary drama, the other a romantic musical.
His first TV role was in the serial ‘Hadawathe Kathawa’. His movie. “Hello”. directed by Vinosha KiriWandeniya, these shows further gained his popularity.
Damith works for Sri Lanka Mobitel, gaining attention from his fellow colleagues and fans. His celebrity aura precedes him at his workplace.
Damith who once loved the Mister Sri Lanka crown is now wearing a new one”, a place in the hearts of audiences everywhere.
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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