Life style
Indra makes Sri Lanka proud
Indra Kuruppu, a senior researcher at the Economics Section of the Parliamentary Research Centre of the Parliament of Australia Articulate, has with a penchant for political science nurtured through undergraduate studies at the university of Peradeniya. She owes her knowledge to Dr. K. H. Jayasinghe, Professor of Political Science at Peradeniya and all other senior lecturers, Dr Ranjith Amarasinghe, Dr KC Perera who helped her achieve her
objectives.
BY Zanita Careem
Indra Kuruppu a Sri Lankan domiciled Down Under has been a longstanding member of the Economic Policy section of the Australia Parliament Library.
For 30 years Indra’s contribution in this senior position has won the acclaim of the members of the Australian Parliament. Until her retirement recently. I provide information and analytical research and advise on policy matters to members of the Senate and their staff, Parliamentary Committees and the office of the Governor-General.
A student of Ladies College Colombo, she enters the university of Peradeniya where she excelled in both curricular and extra activities After obtaining the degree she was attached to the Asian Institute of Technology Bangkok, (Thailand) and the University of Tasmania. Later migrated to Australia with her family. Her work experience gave her the opportunity to excel in her profession and soon after she joined the Parliament as a senior researcher. This was her stepping stone to success
The speaker of the Parliament and MP Smith Tony and MP described Indra as a well liked, well known and well respected member of Parliament team.
Knowing Indra from my campus days (she was my junior) I knew she was passionate about global issues, and a vivid reader on political history and political thoughts.
The speaker of Australian Parliament. Smith Tony paid a great tribute to her work. He said she is a well known and well respected member of the library team. She is also well versed about political. and economic affairs He complimented herwhen he said. “Whenever I asked Indra about policy and research matters, she had the answers at the finger tips. This is a rare trait, which I did not come across among other working women, She is a fountain of knowledge and experience.
Q How interesting is your job
Over the years my research has led me to meet with many politicians, and. I came to realise they differ immensely from what we hear or see in the newspapers which are generally unflattering. The Prime Ministers from Bob Hawke to Scott Morrison and even the leaders of the opposition have been extraordinary hard working. I was very impressed about their simplicity and their memorable speeches andalso down-to-earth personalities. Their memorable speeches still linger in my memory.
Q: Some of the highlights
I witnessed the PM’ Kevin Rudd delivering the Parliamentary national apology to stolen generations in February 2008. I also saw Julia Gillard being sworn in as the first woman Prime Minister. The most interesting aspect was listening to Prime Minister Julia Gillad’s Misogyny speech in October 2020 on alleged sexism by the then leader of the opposition, Tony Abbott. I had the opportunity to see former parliamentary staffers and backbenchers now risen to high offices in the Parliament.
My most memorable moments are seeing many world leaders in the building among them was George Bush, Bill Clinton, George W Bush. Barack Obama, Nelson Mandela, Aung San Suu Kyi and Dalai Lama.
Q: Any Sri Lankan events that you participated
As a Sri Lankan Buddhist. I was happy to be present when a copy of the Dhammapada was presented to the Federal Parliament by the President of the Australians Federations of Buddhist Councils. This was placed during Henry Jenkin office in 2009, in the despatch box, on the central table in front of the Prime Minister. This indeed a rare opportunity
Being a Sri Lankan Buddhist. I was proud when it was kept in the despatch box on the central label in front of the Prime Minister.
Q: What are other memorable moments
(A) Being able to work under pressure and as a member of the team to provide facts and figures called for by a member of the senate and their staff for a debate in the chamber or a for a press conferences or a radio interview., The information I give has to be 100% accurate.
Working for politicians of different political aspirations, was not a a difficult task
Q: Did you feel any kind of discrimination being from an Asian country?
No not at all. I had the recognition factor I was speaking on the phone I am elated when the client would say “Is that Indra? I have no issues working with politicians who held the highest offices.
International Parliamentary Union, Commonwealth Parliament Association. during these conferences I am appointed as the Liaison officer for the Sri Lankan Parliamentary delegations. As I can speak the language and they were happy to have a Sri Lankan among them who can speak their language.
Indra retired recently and she was held in high esteem at the parliament.
Good luck!
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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