Life style
Career choice in the midst of a revolution
Confessions of a Global Gypsy
By Dr. Chandana (Chandi) Jayawardena DPhil Insurgency!
The 5th of April has been a bad day for Ceylon. On that day in 1942, the Japanese bombed Colombo. Exactly 29 years later, on the same day in 1971, an armed revolt was commenced by the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) against the Government of Ceylon. The JVP was successful in recruiting a force of around 10,000 full-time members. Most were students and unemployed youth from rural areas who felt that their economic interests had been neglected by the government. The JVP believed that the local police stations were the government’s key element of power. Therefore, they hoped to remove this presence of power and see the local populace rise up in their support to bring about a revolution.
I was 17-years old at that time, and was a grade 12 student at Ananda College in Colombo 10. For months, we felt the tension building, with police looking suspiciously at youth in their late teens, particularly those with facial hair like me. In the opinion of police, such youth were expressing their solidarity with the JVP and sympathy with the late Che Guevara (killed 
by CIA in 1967), who was a key inspiration to the JVP. At dawn on April 5, 1971, the Wellawaya police station came under attack and five police constables were killed by the JVP. With that fatal attack a bloody war commenced. All schools were closed indefinitely, curfews were in force, and a state of emergency was declared. That day my life changed, forever…
Army?
Throughout my 13 years from Kindergarten to grade 12, I was a very bad student at Ananda College. I declined to read any assigned texts, and devoutly ignored homework assignments. Therefore, my teachers were surprised when I passed the grade 10 Ordinary Level government examinations on my first attempt. I was good at sports and showed some leadership qualities. I practiced Judo at the central YMCA, and represented the school in Rugby Football. I was average in track and field events, but was elected by my peers as one of the four Athletic House Captains.
More importantly, I was a cadet and held the rank of Corporal. During my annual cadeting trips to army camps in Diyatalawa, I decided that I would join the Army as an officer cadet for a two-year training program when I turned 18. My career ambition was to then get promoted as a Second Lieutenant at age 20, with a long-term goal of eventually becoming a General in my early-40s. That was my dream, but it was shattered when my parents had a serious meeting with me during the height of the JVP insurgency. They told me that: “a career in the Army is now far too dangerous and we do not want our only son to die at war!”. That was the end of that discussion.
Choices
I was forced to choose another career. As my parents had doubts that I would be successful at grade 12 Advance Level government examinations to enter a university, they gave me three choices and wanted me to pick one. My father provided some pros and cons for all three choices:
Visual Arts – Just like my parents, I was good in drawing, painting, and sculpture. Therefore, one option for me was to do a three-year Diploma at Heywood Art School and build a career in visual arts. My father said: “No doubt that you will enjoy it, but we are not sure if you could make a comfortable living from art in a poor country!”
Trainee in a Company – My father had some good contacts with large companies, and said that: “I can find a junior trainee job for you where you will have to start at the bottom.”
Hospitality and Tourism – My father then said that: “Once the war ends, Tourism has the potential of becoming a key non-traditional industry in Ceylon, and those who earn a recognized qualification and join the industry at an early stage of this industry will have good opportunities to do well. There is a Hotel School in Colombo, run by European faculty, which offers a three-year diploma in Hotel and Catering Operations”.
At that time, I had enjoyed meeting a few foreigners and tourists by the Kinross Swimming & Life Saving Club in Wellawatte, where I used to jog and sea bathe with a few of my buddies from Bambalapitiya Flats, without our parent’s knowledge. Therefore, the opportunity to meet European faculty was interesting to me. Living in a hostel for three years and getting good and “free” food were also encouraging selling points from my father. I said: “OK, I will become a hotelier!”, without fully realizing what that notion, really entailed.
Challenges
I soon realized that I had a major challenge in joining the Ceylon Hotel School (CHS). At that time, we rarely spoke English at Ananda College. Therefore, I became very nervous when my father told me that the education at CHS would be conducted in English with French and German as mandatory subjects. Another challenge was that at 17-years, I was underage to join CHS. Once again, I thought about other options. After two weeks of fighting with JVP, the government regained control of all but a few remote areas of the island and the war ended in June of 1971. At that point, I attempted to convince my parents that my proposed Army career would be less dangerous than what they had predicted. I was unsuccessful in convincing them.
I eventually applied to CHS. As I was not sure if I would do well at my first-ever interview, my father did a series of mock interviews in English, at home. I learned English words such as “cutlery”, “crockery”, and “wine” for the first time during my interview preparation. Despite this, I did terribly at the interview. There were hundreds of applicants for 28 vacancies, and I doubted that I would be chosen. During that time in Ceylon, many things happened based on “political pull” rather than the true merits of applicants. Most of the applicants to CHS were from influential families. Therefore, I was surprised when I received a letter confirming that I had been accepted to CHS. We did not talk about it, but I was convinced that my father “did the needful” to get me chosen!
Shock!
I was still not out of the woods. I had to practice a lot and improve my English before the first day at CHS. When my father finally accompanied me to the CHS hostel in Steuart Place, Colombo 3 (where SLTDA and SLITHM are located, now) on Sunday, October 10, 1971, I was in for a rude shock. Instead of a warm welcome by the second-year and third-year students, a horrible week-long ragging (initiation ritual or hazing) was awaiting the batch of 28 new students. Soon after the parents left, the ragging began.
The freshers were told that they could not address senior students by their names unless they added the words “Lord Veteran” to their names, as a mark of respect. Similarly, freshers were strictly prohibited from mentioning their own names without adding the words “Fresher F***er”. For an example, I had to introduce myself, repeatedly throughout the first week, as: “Fresher F***er Chandana Jayawardena”.
(The writer is President – Chandi J. Associates Inc. Consulting, Canada
Founder & Administrator – Global Hospitality Forum
chandij@sympatico.ca )
Some more challenges followed over my memorable and eventful three years at CHS. More, next week…
By Zanita Careem
As the days come closer and a cold air filled the air, Sheraton Kosgoda Turtle Beach Resort began its festive celebrations with its annual tree lighting event. This enchanting evening marked the beginning of the joyous season. The centrepiece of the evening – a magnificent white Christmas tree standing tall as a beacon of joy. This year, the hotel embraced a sustainable approach turning the festive occasion into a celebration of eco- consciousness and community spirit. As the most global brand within the Mariott Bonvoy portfolio, Sheraton has always stood for community and played a special role in serving people
In keeping with this philosphy, Sheraton Kosgoda Turtle Beach Resort unveiled its unique Christmas tree, crafted entirely from tea branches sourced from the Puwakdola Estate in Pinikahana, Elpitiya. This initiative celebrates the festive spirit while underscoring the resort’s commitment to sustainability and community collaboration.
Nestled in the Southern Galle District, the Puwakdola Estate spans ten acres, with eight acres dedicated to the cultivation of the unique tea variety, 20/23. This year, branches from an acre of the estate were pruned, cleaned, painted, and transformed into a stunning Christmas centre piece by thier dedicated staff.
This project exemplifies Sheraton Kosgoda’s philosophy of fostering community partnerships and responsible resource use. The tree stands as a testament to how sustainability and festive celebrations can harmoniously coexist, bringing joy to guests while supporting local agriculture and artisans.
Front Office Manager Sahan Thabrew, Executive Chef Ramesh Kularutnam, General Manager Mano Gunasekara, Director Salesand Marketing Imran Noordeen and Director Foodand Beverages Seemon Manimel
This year the unique tree created from tea branches stood as a symbol of Sheraton’s Kosgoda’s commitment to sustainability Sheraton Kosgoda General Manager said. This year resort’s Christmas tree is a testament to the hotel’s philosophy of giving back, by utilising local resources responsibility, supporting and fostering partnerships that empower communities is a trailblazer in reducing environment impact extending from design and amenities to its tasty cuisine.
As dusk approached, the twnkling lights o f the tree illuminated the lobby casting a warm glow and creating a spectacular winter wonderland. The guests were welcomed with the harmonious melodies of Chro Calibre performing classic carols, setting a magical tone for the evening. GM shared his thoughts “Our Christmas is not just about ushering. This towering Christmas tree curated by the hotel staff stood as a symbol of Sheraton Kosgoda’s commitment to sustainability.” As evening fell, the crowd gathered at the lobby to soak in the festive cheer and feel the magic of the season..
General Manager Mano Gunasekara
Majestic white Christmas tree crafted by the staff
Festive Dining and Entertainment
Lavish Christmas Buffet: Indulge in an extraordinary culinary journey featuring an extensive Christmas buffet with traditional favourites and innovative creations by our Executive Chef Ramesh Kularutnam and his team. Savour the essence of the season with dishes prepared from the freshest, locally sourced ingredients. The evening will be set to the enchanting tunes of the ECHO Live Band, ensuring a festive atmosphere by the poolside under the starry night sky from 7pm onwards.
Christmas Day Brunch: Celebrate Christmas Day with a delightful brunch at S-Kitchen, where an array of international and Sri Lankan dishes awaits you. From hearty breakfast favourite to gourmet mains and decadent desserts, the brunch is designed to bring families and friends together for a joyous holiday feast. Immerse yourself in the vibrant ambiance of S-Kitchen and create cherished memories as you relish the festive offerings.
New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner: Bid farewell to 2024 in grand style at our New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner. Treat yourself to an opulent buffet featuring an eclectic mix of cuisines, including gourmet delicacies, live cooking stations, and indulgent desserts. As the clock counts down to midnight, enjoy exhilarating performances by live DJs and dynamic dance acts. Cap off the night with a breathtaking fireworks display, illuminating the sky to mark the beginning of a bright and prosperous 2025.
As part of the celebrations, there will be a party for children of the hotel staff with a festive programme of music,food,games and other forms of entertainment
Celebrate the season with Sheraton Kosgoda Turtle Beach Resort, where thoughtful sustainability, vibrant celebrations, and unmatched hospitality come together to create magical memories said Demi Hewa Marketing and Communication Manager.
Colombo, December 5 Cinnamon Colombo Hotels officially welcomed the festive season with a trio of spectacular Christmas lighting ceremonies across Cinnamon Lakeside Cinnamon Red , and Cinnamon Grand Colombo. Each event was a unique celebration of tradition, innovation, and holiday cheer, drawing guests and the local community into the warmth and magic of the season.
Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo: A Waterfront Wonderland
On November 29th, Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo hosted its highly anticipated Christmas tree lighting ceremony, marking the start of the holiday season with grandeur and joy. The annual event, a cherished tradition at the waterfront hotel, brought together guests and the community for a memorable evening of lights, music, and festive cheer.
The evening’s centerpiece was the lighting of the majestic Christmas tree, a symbolic moment that illuminated the hotel in a spectacular array of colors. As the tree came alive, the front façade of the hotel was bathed in a warm, elegant glow, enhancing the festive ambiance. Guests were captivated by the dazzling display, with the joy and awe of the crowd echoing throughout the venue.
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- Santa arriving from roof top,Cinnamon Lakeside
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- General Manager, Cinnamon Grand and Kamal Munasinghe and GM,Cinnamon Lakeside, Nazoomi Azhar
Adding to the enchantment, the junior choir from the British School in Colombo delivered a heartwarming performance of classic carols. Dressed in festive attire, the young singers created an atmosphere that resonated across generations, their harmonies a perfect complement to the evening’s celebrations.
The hotel’s décor masterfully blended traditional Christmas elements with contemporary word art, creating a visually stunning environment. This fusion of classic and modern styles transformed the space into an Instagram-worthy haven that appealed to all ages.
A highlight for families was the Goodies Counter inspired by European Christmas markets. This charming wooden stall, brimming with festive treats like gingerbread cookies, mince pies, and handcrafted chocolates, became a favorite destination, especially for children.
Under the guidance of General Manager of Cinnamon Lakeside Nazoomi Azhar, the event brought together tradition, elegance, and community spirit. The Christmas lighting ceremony at Cinnamon Lakeside not only celebrated the season but also created a shared moment of magic and joy that guests will cherish for years to come.
Towering Christmas tree
Cinnamon Red Colombo: A Sky-high celebration
On the same evening, Cinnamon Red added a bold, urban twist to its Christmas celebration. The highlight of the night was Santa Claus’s dramatic descent from the 26th floor of the hotel, thrilling guests with an unforgettable entrance high above Colombo’s skyline.
And there, waiting at the base, was none other than his jolly counterpart, Mrs. Claus, adding her charm to the celebration. Together, they turned the wet and cloudy November evening into an unforgettable urban Christmas tale, delighting everyone with their festive cheer and warm smiles.
The General Manager of Cinnamon Red Colombo, Terrence Fernando unveiled a dazzling 20-foot Christmas tree at the hotel’s entrance canopy, using a swipe of his iPad to light up the tree and the building in a cascade of vibrant colors. Guests indulged in homemade mince pies, mulled wine, and sweet cashews, enjoying a cozy and contemporary take on Christmas traditions.
As Cinnamon Red celebrated its 10th year of redefining Colombo’s skyline, the event epitomized its spirit of creativity and boldness, proving once again that urban Christmases can be both modern and magical.
Cinnamon Grand Colombo: A grand celebration
Cinnamon Grand Colombo hosted its enchanting Christmas Tree lighting ceremony on December 2nd, transforming the hotel lobby into a magical winter wonderland. The arrival of Santa and Santarina on a Harley-Davidson motorcycle set an exciting tone for the evening, blending modern flair with festive tradition.
The highlight of the evening was the moment the grand Christmas tree lit up, accompanied by a magical snowfall that began to cascade gently from above. Guests were captivated as the lobby was filled with the enchanting sight of snow falling, creating a truly mesmerizing and festive atmosphere. The event drew a large crowd to the hotel lobby, with families, couples, and friends gathered to witness the grand celebration. Guests enjoyed an array of eight delightful cold snacks as the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation for the tree lighting moment.
The General Manager of Cinnamon Grand and the Area Vice President of Cinnamon Colombo Hotels, Kamal Munasinghe took center stage, holding the remote to illuminate the majestic Christmas tree. As the lights sparkled to life, accompanied by a live performance from Soundarie David’s Junior Choir singing beloved Christmas carols, the lobby resonated with festive cheer and joy.
Cinnamon Grand Colombo’s Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony was a heartwarming celebration that brought the community together, creating memories that will be cherished long after the holiday season. The event’s blend of tradition, innovation, and festive spirit underscored the hotel’s commitment to making the season magical for all who visit.
A Season to Remember
From waterfront splendor to sky-high spectacles and grand festive elegance, the Christmas lighting ceremonies at Cinnamon Colombo Hotels reflected the unique character of each property. As the lights sparkled and the carols resonated, the celebrations served as a reminder of the joy of togetherness and the spirit of giving. With these memorable events, Cinnamon Colombo Hotels have set the stage for a festive season filled with magic, tradition, and community.
Celebrate the dawn of 2025 in true Parisian flair as Mount Lavinia Hotel hosts “Moulin Rouge – Une Nuit à Paris”, a glamorous New Year’s Eve dinner dance set against the enchanting backdrop of the hotel’s iconic terrace. Known for crafting unique, unforgettable experiences, Mount Lavinia Hotel invites guests to revel in an evening of elegance, indulgence, and celebration that promises to be unlike any other in the city.
Unparalleled Fireworks Display
This year’s celebration comes with a breathtaking 30-minute fireworks display, offering guests an unparalleled view of the midnight spectacle from the terrace. As the sky comes alive with dazzling colors, guests will welcome the New Year in a setting of true Parisian romance and grandeur.
An exquisite Parisian feast
The evening begins with a welcome cocktail at the hotel’s charming courtyard, accompanied by the soulful melodies of live French jazz. Guests will then enjoy a grand dinner and dessert buffet, featuring Parisian-inspired culinary delights and ending with a special midnight breakfast, ensuring the festivities continue into the early hours of 2025.
For those booking tables of 10, enjoy a complimentary bottle of premium imported beverage complete with chasers and a selection of bites, ensuring your celebration is truly elevated.
Entertainment Like Never Before
The event will feature high-energy performances by Can-Can dancers, live music by the renowned band X-IT featuring Kevin Almeida, and DJ Kosala to keep the party alive all night long. Combining vibrant music and dazzling performances, Mount Lavinia Hotel promises to transport guests straight to the streets of Paris.
Mount Lavinia Hotel – Pioneers of Memorable and unique celebrations
Building on the success of last year’s “A Night in Copacabana,” this year’s “Moulin Rouge – Une Nuit à Paris” reaffirms Mount Lavinia Hotel’s reputation as Colombo’s premier destination for iconic celebrations.
The hotel is committed to creating unforgettable moments for our guests, and this New Year’s Eve, we’re bringing the magic of Paris to Colombo. From spectacular fireworks to exquisite cuisine and world-class entertainment, the hotel promises an evening you’ll cherish forever,” said Anura Dewapura, Chief Operating Officer of Mount Lavinia Hotel.
Don’t miss your chance to experience the allure of Paris at Mount Lavinia Hotel. Reserve your tickets today and get ready to toast to a spectacular New Year in unparalleled style!
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