Life style

An Exhibition of Bonsai by the Sri Lanka Bonsai Association

Published

5 months ago

2024/11/3

By M.A. Pemasiri

Bonsai is the art of creating a miniature replica of a mature tree (or group of trees) found in the nature, by changing the appearance of a normal plant material to that of a mature tree.

We are surrounded by various forms of beautiful trees, and most of us simply enjoy their beauty, without thinking much about the features which make them beautiful. For a Bonsai enthusiast, these beautiful trees form the basis for inspiration. If you are to succeed in Bonsai, you should keep gazing at the trees, studying them, analyzing their structure, so that you will be able to reproduce realistic images of the trees in miniature.

A careful analyzing of a tree leads one to understand its life story and the conditions under which it grew over the years. As an example, mountain trees grow in thin poor soil, and are exposed to strong winds. Their life is a constant battle for survival under harsh realities of the nature. However, such battle will give them, their unique character, with very special attractive features.

A bonsai artist will also have to learn the process of a young plant turning to an old tree, shedding many branches, leaving the essential stronger ones, strong surface roots becoming a part of the picture, giving stability and a mature look.

When the artistic forms of Bonsai trees are displayed at the Exhibitions, many enthusiastic viewers get a desire to try out creating a Bonsai. A beginner, could be little nervous of some of the techniques used, but in no time, one can gain confidence as one sees how the trees respond, to the training. With growing confidence, new ideas can be experimented, some will succeed, and some may fail. But, with each failure, you will learn, how to go ahead with the task of creating a “sculpture” out of a “living specimen”.

Bonsai can be a horticultural challenge to a plant lover, but for someone with an artistic touch, Bonsai can be an excellent medium to keep on exploring where there will be no limit to creative achievements.

What matters in a Bonsai, is the true quality of the specimen. How beautiful it is, how natural it looks? It is the beauty of form, colour and texture, which matters. It is a fact that the beauty of the tree will improve with the length of time it had been trained as a Bonsai. But unless the basic form is of quality, aging itself will not make it a good Bonsai. As it is an artwork which is never finished, you can keep on working with it over the years, where you can get immense satisfaction.

Size of a Bonsai is not an important factor. Many believe that the larger the Bonsai, better it is, which is not true. It is also assumed that bigger Bonsai are more difficult to create, which also not true. It can be argued that, a mini or “Mame” Bonsai will require more patience and skills to create and maintain, because same aesthetic standards have to be achieved with fewer and smaller elements.

Having one or two quality Bonsai plants in your balcony can be as rewarding as having a large collection of Bonsai trees in a well spread garden. Creating a Bonsai and maintaining it, watching it going through the changes with time is an experience which you cannot just explain. It is worth trying.

Bonsai Artists all over the world exhibit their artistic creations in special exhibitions, organized by their respective Clubs or Associations in order to assess their plants and for public viewing.

The annual exhibition of The Sri Lanka Bonsai Association, “Reflections 2024 – Living Images” will be held at J D A Perera Gallery, University of Visual & Performing Arts, No.46, Horton Place, Colombo 07, on November 9-10 from 10 AM to 6 PM. A large collection of high-quality Bonsai Plants will be on display this year too.

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Life style

Mount Lavinia Hotel unveils spectacular “Avurudu Maha gedara”

Published

3 days ago

2025/04/13

Thilina Walpola

Mount Lavinia Hotel, known as “Galkissa Maha Hotalaya had thier “Avurudu Maha Gedara” celebration for the 2025 Sinhala and Tamil New Year. This year’s festivities were spectacular, with the iconic Chef Publis Silva at the helm of the culinary offerings.

The concept of “Avurudu Maha Gedara” – the grand ancestral home where families gather during New Year – perfectly embodies Mount Lavinia Hotel’s role as a cultural cornerstone in the community. Just as in the traditional village “Maha gedara” welcomes extended families, the historic hotel opens its doors to all Sri Lankans and visitors wishing to experience authentic New Year traditions.

“Avurudu Maha Gedara at Mount Lavinia Hotel is more than just a celebration – it’s our way of preserving and sharing Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage,” says Anura Dewapura, Chief Operating Officer of Mount Lavinia Hotel Group. “We take pride in creating a space where families and friends can come together to experience the joy and traditions of the New Year in an authentic setting that honors our collective past while creating new memories.”

Grand Kavili Kade opening and Avurudu market

The celebrations kicked off with the grand opening of the Kavili Kade (sweetmeat shop) on Sunday, April 6th at 4:30 PM. Visitors were treated to a vibrant cultural spectacle featuring traditional dancing, music, games, and dramatic performances. Distinguished guests including corporate partners, business associates, ambassadors, and media representatives attended this colorful inauguration.

The hotel’s courtyard was transformed into an eco-friendly Avurudu Market, showcasing special New Year items, homeware, and decorative pieces. Following the grand opening, the Kavili Kade will welcome guests daily from 10 AM to 8 PM until April 13th.

Exquisite Kavili hampers

For those looking to bring the flavors of Avurudu home, Mount Lavinia Hotel has curated three distinctive kavili hampers named after beloved Sri Lankan flora:

The premium Erabadu Hamper – the most comprehensive sweetmeat collection

The Ehela Hamper – a delightful mid-range offering

The Bakmee Hamper ) – a perfect introduction to traditional treats

Each hamper can be delivered directly to your doorstep, making them ideal both for family celebrations and as meaningful gifts during the New Year season.

“Feast of the Nation” – A Culinary Journey Across Sri Lanka

On Avurudu Day, Mount Lavinia Hotel will host its renowned “Feast of the Nation” lunch buffet, celebrating Sri Lanka’s diverse culinary heritage. At , this extraordinary buffet transcends ethnic boundaries, offering a comprehensive journey through the island’s rich culinary landscape. The feast features authentic dishes from every corner of Sri Lanka, bringing together the distinct flavors and cooking traditions that represent the country’s multicultural identity in one magnificent spread.

“The Avurudu celebration at Mount Lavinia Hotel represents the true spirit of Sri Lankan unity,” Dewapura continued. ” Through our traditional foods, we honor the cultural tapestry that makes our nation so special.”

Mount Lavinia Hotel’s “Avurudu Maha Gedara” welcomes Sri Lankans of all ages and backgrounds to experience the rich traditions of the New Year in the magnificent setting of this historic landmark.

For reservations and inquiries, contact Mount Lavinia Hotel at 0112 711 711.

Life style

Celebrate Avurudu in grand style

Published

3 days ago

2025/04/13

Thilina Walpola

This April, Cinnamon Grand Colombo brings the joyous essence of Avurudu alive with a line-up of delightful culinary experiences, cultural festivities, and memorable moments for the whole family. Here’s how you can celebrate the Sinhala and Tamil New Year with flavour, tradition, and warmth said the press release.

New Year vibes

The release said experience the sights, sounds, and smells of a truly Sri Lankan New Year from 12–15 April 2025, starting from 5 PM onwards at the Lobby.

Watch live demonstrations of traditional sweetmeats being made, like kawum and kokis, and enjoy the rhythmic beats of raban drums as the hotel lobby transforms into a celebration of Avurudu culture.

Lobby – Cinnamon Grand Colombo

12–15 April, from 5 PM onwards

Call +94 11 247 3494 for details

Celebrate Avurudu Tradition and taste at Nuga Gama

On 14 April 2025, step into a truly authentic village-style Avurudu celebration at Nuga Gama. Starting at 8 AM, guests can enjoy a lavish Kavili Table and Lunch Buffet filled with traditional sweets and festive Sri Lankan dishes.

There’ll also be Avurudu games and vibrant activities to keep the whole family entertained.

Life style

Celebrate Sinhala and Tamil New Year at Sun Siyam Pasikudah’s Festival of the Sun

Published

3 days ago

2025/04/13

Thilina Walpola

This Sinhala and Tamil New Year, step away from the ordinary and embrace the spirit of Avurudu at Sun Siyam Pasikudah with the joyous rhythms of tradition, community, and coastal serenity, under the vibrant theme, Festival of the Sun said a press release

Set along the golden shores of Pasikudah, the luxury five-star beach resort transforms into a festive haven where timeless rituals meet joyful recreation. From traditional ceremonies to fun-filled family games, guests are promised an unforgettable experience that captures the heart of Sri Lankan heritage, celebrating the essence of togetherness, gratitude, and renewal release said.

As the sun rises to mark the dawn of the New Year, guests will witness the symbolic milk boiling ceremony—a sacred ritual signifying prosperity and new beginnings. The preparation of the Kavili Mesaya, or traditional sweet table, will follow—featuring a colourful spread of mouthwatering Avurudu treats like kokis, mung kavum, aluwa, and konda kavum. The celebration continues with a ceremonial oil lamp lighting, setting the tone for a day rooted in cultural elegance and island warmth.

The Kids’ Corner is all set to light up with playful delights such as Breaking Balloons and Placing the Eye on the Elephant, promising giggles and memories for the little ones. Families and groups can bond over light-hearted yet lively games including Fill the Bottle by Hand, Sack Races, and the ever-popular Musical Chairs—guaranteed to spark friendly competition and lots of laughs.

For those seeking a thrill, competitive events like Tug of War (Ladies vs Gents), Pillow Fight, and the classic Blindfolded Pot Breaking are sure to bring out the festive spirit in full force.

While the Avurudu festivities steal the spotlight, Sun Siyam Pasikudah continues to charm guests with its signature blend of tropical luxury and authentic Sri Lankan hospitality.