Life style

INTERVIEW – ANNE RANI: Danish Superstar of Lankan descent

Published

3 years ago

2023/01/8

BY Tharishi Hewavithanagamage

Music transcends time and borders. The variety of genres available today caters to everyone’s tastes in music, from classical music to rock, R&B, rap and more. Accessibility to songs today comes at the touch of a button, all provided by streaming giants like Spotify and Apple Music. But the 90s era was very different and produced many songs that are considered timeless classics today. Apart from hip-hop and rap, genres like R&B and urban music became extremely popular in the 90s. Ground-breaking and eclectic most songs from the era were outcomes of bold experimentation and creative fusions.

Trends picked up with teen-pop and dance-pop music from boy bands and girl bands such as ‘NSync, The Backstreet Boys, Spice Girls, TLC and Destiny’s Child to name a few. They topped charts around the world and their releases continue to transcend generations of avid listeners. Anne Rani— a successful singer, songwriter, producer and budding actress— spawned from the trendy 90s era. Sri Lankan by birth Anne was adopted by Danish parents in 1976, from an orphanage in Panadura at just eight months old. She was too young to have any recollection of her childhood and birth in Sri Lanka, she was fortunate enough to start her life in Denmark. Shooting to fame at a young age, Anne has seen and experienced it all. The Island was fortunate enough to speak to the Danish pop star who had very valuable insights to share based on her many experiences, especially as a female POC (person of color) making it big in the music industry. Her reputation in her native Denmark is based on her phenomenal success as a member of R&B trio “JUICE”.

Q. How did you get into the music scene?

From a very young age she was already gifted with the art of music. She started taking piano lessons at the age of six and looking back she says, “I loved music, and I was able to play by ear, so I often had trouble remembering notes.” She continues, “I was also part of the choir and I remember the teacher telling my parents that I should take singing classes”, which became the foundation for her career. Anne also went to America for eight months as an exchange student, which is where she was able to develop her English language skills. In the time she spent in America, she recalls the most amazing experiences that expanded her taste for music. She goes on, “In those eight months I had an amazing choir teacher. She was truly an inspiration and I still remember her to this day. She runs the most amazing choirs even today. To experience music like that, it was simply beautiful. I learned a lot about singing in harmony.”

She returned to Denmark to complete her education, but on the side, she would continue to make music. “After school I used to meet up with music producers, I would play in bands and go out performing too. I also used to make demo tapes with my producer back then”, Anne says. Her hard work paid off when, unbeknownst to her, one of her friends played her demo tapes for a producer from the leading record label in Denmark – EMI-Medley. “After hearing my demo, the producer contacted me, and that magical phone call completely changed my life”, Anne recalls.

The record label was already working on putting together a girl group and invited Anne to join. “I was only 19 years old at the time and I went to meet the team and the other girl who was chosen to join the project. I took the opportunity and my life changed in a flash.” Anne became a member of the Danish girl band JUICE alongside Lena Tahara and Maria Hamer. The group became very popular with their debut album and were instant chart toppers, both domestically and internationally. “We toured all over the world and performed at big venues like the Wembley arena in the UK. We also went on tour with the British boy band Five,” Anne says.

The group lasted for five years and released two albums in their active years. The trio also collaborated with songwriter Remee, S.O.A.P and Christina Undhjem on the song ‘Let Love Be Love’, which Anne says is ‘the biggest Christmas song in Denmark to this day’.

Q. What were your experiences like as a female artist and POC in the music industry?

While Anne considers herself very lucky to have received the opportunity to enter the music industry so early on in life, but also shared the less glamorous side to having so much fame at a very young age. “We were very young, and we didn’t know much about the industry. We were constantly traveling and promoting, and the experience was unique, but it was also hard. Not everyone gets to see the more difficult days we go through,” she says.

Going further, we discussed her experience as a female artist in the music industry and the difficulties she faced. “When I was young, I definitely had to prove that I was more than just a pretty face. Having a pretty face is said to be a good thing in showbiz, but sometimes you need to prove that there is more to you than just that. You need to carve out an identity for yourself and show that you are talented and capable of putting in the hard work and effort that goes into creating music. Regardless of gender people will always be quick to judge and question your abilities, so it’s important to prove yourself.” She was often told that as a female artist she had to work harder to ensure she could leave her mark in the industry.

The music industry has always wrestled with inclusion, diversity and gender disparity. Many POC musicians have been subject to marginalization, despite being highly talented and widely popular among listeners. In addition, female artists in particular have been treated differently in comparison to their male counterparts.

From big names like Missy Elliot and J-LO, to popular boy and girl bands, the music industry in the 90s saw an insane influx of music and a variety of artists. “In the 90s when R&B music broke through, artists like Missy Elliott and Jennifer Lopez, were thrust into the limelight. There was this explosion of Black and Latin music culture, All of a sudden, it became ‘cool’ and ‘trendy’ to be someone of color and people became swept up in it. This worked to my advantage as I actually had some skin color,” Anne says. Diversity played a key role in their group as well, seeing as the JUICE trio came from mixed cultures and backgrounds. “None of us looked Danish and we sort of became part of the trend. At the time we were truly fortunate as female artists from varying backgrounds to get our foot in the door,” Anne adds.

The changing times and ensuing digitalization has pushed topics of discrimination, gender disparity and lack of diversity in the industry to the forefront. Fans and critics have been vocal about such injustices via social media platforms. Anne agrees that people today are very socially aware and are having more open discussions about such subject matters, that would not have seen the light of day in the past.

Q. After bidding goodbye to your days as a group, was it difficult to find your footing as a soloist?

Although she had already formed an identity for herself and a reputation in the industry, as she embarked on her solo career, she found herself being too dependent on finding a producer to help construct her visions. “It is wonderful to work with others and as a team. But as an artist, being able to pen out what’s on your mind is important. Nobody can ever really understand what you mean until you show it yourself. Producers cannot read minds and how everyone experiences music is very different,” she says. “I grew up listening to artists like the late Prince, Michael Jackson and Madonna. I grew up dreaming of achieving such success. Artists like Prince were really inspirational, because he could play instruments, write and produce too. To be an artist capable of doing many things is exciting,” Anne adds.

With help from her friends in the industry and tons of YouTube tutorials she felt liberated as she was now able to create and manifest her own sketches before handing them to a producer who could fine-tune her work. Anne released her first debut single in 2009 called ‘Fall’. Since then, Anne has collaborated with various artists such as Andy Taylor (Duran Duran), performed at famous venues like Pacha Ibiza and even released five singles.

The music industry today has expanded, and the market has expanded greatly in comparison to the 90s. Bigger labels have more money involved and are taking on more chances of discovering talented individuals who can create unique pieces of music that will stick around for a long time. The digital age has also given people more access and options to create music and express themselves freely. Anne believes that it is a great opportunity for budding young talent to make their way into the industry

“Music can be enjoyed in many different ways, despite the changing times”, Anne concludes.

Q. Have you visited Sri Lanka? How have you approached the idea of reconnecting with your roots?

“To me everything Sri Lankan is interesting as I didn’t grow up there. I haven’t been able to make frequent visits, but I aim to do so in the future. I’m always looking to meet more Sri Lankans and experience the culture and learn more about its history as well,” Anne says. She also hopes to connect with her fans in Sri Lanka and welcomes the idea of working and collaborating with Sri Lankan musicians in the future.

Q. What are you up to these days?

While she isn’t currently working on any music, she is exploring the world of film and acting. “I played a small role in a Danish TV series and since then my curiosity has piqued. I’m enthusiastic about exploring the world of acting and I hope to see where it will take me. It’s refreshing to do something else,” Anne says.

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Life style

Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams receives prestigious five-Star certification from SLTDA

Published

6 days ago

2025/12/14

Thilina Walpola

(L-R) Roshan George - Hotel Manager, Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams; Sanjiv Hulugalle - CEO/General Manager, Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams; Buddhika Hewawasam - Chairman, Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority

Cinnamon Life that has re-defined Colombo’s skyline added another accolade to its journey as it officially received its five star certification placing it among the most distinguished luxury properties in Sri Lanka’s hospitality landscape.

Receiving the five star classification is a significant achievement for any hotel but Cinnamon Life – the flagship of Sri Lanka’s most ambitious integrated lifestyle development, the accolade carries exceptional meaning. The recognition follows a rigorous evaluation of service standards,facilities,and operational excellence,underscoring the property’s commitment to delivering world class guest experiences

– Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams has been officially awarded the esteemed Five-Star Certification by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA), underscoring its status as a landmark in Sri Lanka’s hospitality landscape and a benchmark for excellence in the region.

As South Asia’s largest and first fully integrated resort, Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams represents a transformative investment in Sri Lanka’s tourism and leisure economy. Developed by John Keells Holdings PLC with a historic USD 1.2 billion investment – the largest private development in the country – the resort has reshaped Colombo into a premier destination for luxury travel, entertainment, world-class events, and international business.

The team marks a major milestone with the property’s five star accreditation

A hallmark of the property is its extensive event and convention infrastructure, featuring over 160,000 sq. ft. of versatile, high-spec event space. With five signature ballrooms, cutting-edge technology, and three exceptional outdoor venues offering panoramic views of the ocean and the Colombo skyline, Cinnamon Life has established itself as an unrivalled hub for global conferences, high-profile celebrations, and corporate gatherings for both local and international travellers.

“We are deeply honoured to receive this Five-Star Certification from the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority,” said Sanjiv Hulugalle, CEO and General Manager of Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams. “This recognition reflects our unwavering commitment to world-class service, guest centric innovation, and the elevated experiences that define Cinnamon Life. Our aspiration is to set new standards for luxury, leisure, and MICE tourism in the region, while supporting Sri Lanka’s positioning on the global stage.”

The Five-Star Certification further cements Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams as one of Sri Lanka’s foremost luxury destinations. With its two luxury hotels, curated signature dining concepts, immersive entertainment arenas, and a vibrant retail and lifestyle precinct, the resort offers an unparalleled blend of hospitality, lifestyle, and experiences under one iconic address.

The certification was presented at Cinnamon Life, attended by senior leadership from SLTDA and Cinnamon Life, members of the hospitality industry, and media representatives. The event celebrated this milestone achievement and marked a significant step forward in elevating Sri Lanka’s luxury hospitality offering.

About City of Dreams

City of Dreams is Sri Lanka’s largest and most ambitious integrated resort, redefining Colombo’s skyline as a symbol of modern luxury and innovation. Designed as a “city within a city,” the destination offers 800 luxury rooms and suites, with 687 at Cinnamon Life and 113 at NUWA, complemented by a diverse selection of 13 restaurants and bars that showcase global cuisines alongside Sri Lanka’s rich culinary heritage. Adding to its appeal is a vibrant mix of high-end retail, Sri Lanka’s premier entertainment arena, a shopping mall, office towers, and luxury residences. This integrated ecosystem enables delegates to stay, work, meet, dine, shop, and celebrate seamlessly under one roof, delivering unmatched convenience and engagement.

Life style

Tourist Board reassures: Sri Lanka safe, open and ready

Published

6 days ago

2025/12/14

Thilina Walpola

Deputy Minister of Tourism Professor, Ruwan Ranasinghe with other hospitality partners in the tourist sector

Cyclone Ditwah carved a trail of devastation as it roared across many regions, unleashing a deluge that transformed the entire towns into destruction. This is one of the most unforgiving storms in recent years – bringing torrential rains, violent winds and a trail of destruction that left thousands displaced in a matter of hours. Homes swept away, roads disappeared and families were forced to flee.

Yet beneath the chaos and loss, a quiet resilience emerged, communities rallied, rescue teams worked around the clock to restore roads, relocate displaced families and ensure the safety of the tourists.

Now with waters slowly receding, the full story of Ditwah’s impact is only a beginning to unfold – a story of heartbreak, survival and the long road to rebuilding.

Cyclone Ditwah delivered a sharp blow to the tourism sector within hours and days, disrupting travel routes, damaging coastal routes, and forcing authorities to reassess visitor safety. as hoteliers,tour operators,and government agencies worked round the clock to stabilise operations.The industry soon reassured global travellers that the island remains open and resilient.Rescue teams were deployed immediately, working around the clock to evacuate families and restore essential services.

While several areas experienced significant damages, authorities assured that key tourism zones remain safe and operational.

A press conference was summoned by the Ministry of Tourism and Foreign affairs, last week bringing together top officials, media and other hospitality partners to address growing public concern,assure international travellers and outline the immediate steps taken to ensure safety across all tourist zones. The Deputy Minister of Tourism, Professor Ruwan Ranasinghe and Chairman of SLTPB, Buddhika Hewawasam stepped forward to present a clear,unified message that Sri Lanka remains safe, prepared and committed in protecting the visitors. They calmed anxieties,dispelled myths,rumours and dispelled misinformation and revealed the coordinated efforts of the government to keep the hospitality industry unshaken.

Tourism authorities pointed out even in the aftermath of Ditwah,the arrival of the cruise ship sent a powerful message. the ship’s docking underscored that Sri Lanka is safe . The arrival of this luxury cruise liner carrying hundreds of international passengers, was part of a regional voyage from Mumbai to Singapore. This was a symbolic moment unfolding at the harbour, it was a glimmer of hope in a week overshadowed by stormy clouds. The Tourism authorities reflected this arrival as a sign that confidence in Sri Lanka had not lost hope and showed Sri Lanka is steady,ready,and open.

The Deputy Minister of Tourism Professor Ruwan Ranasinghe in a speech marked by confidence and determination said. “Our teams have worked round the clock to ensure safety, restore access routes and support our travellers”.

SLTPB Chairman, Buddhika Hewawasam

Today I assured every traveller Sri Lanka is safe, Sri Lanka is open, and Sri Lanka is ready. He confirmed that all major coastal resorts from Negombo to Bentota remain fully operational. Cultural destinations such as Kandy, Dambulla, Kandy,Sigiriya, are now open. He further noted that national parks,including Yala, Udawalawe,Wilpattu had returned operations following rapid assessments. Our key tourist zones are open,accessible and operating under verified safety conditions. He assured that every tourist in the island was safe,

He praised the rescue teams who had worked round the clock, cleaning roads, supporting displaced families and ensuring tourism infrastructure remained intact. To the world I say please come visit, and explore. Our island stands tall and more ready than ever to welcome you. This is not just recovery, he concluded,this is resilience in action. Finally he stressed that Sri Lanka’s tourism sector had demonstrated structural resilience,operational continuity and readiness to maintain international confidence.

The Chairman of the SLTPB Buddika Hewawasam also briefed the media on the ongoing relief operations. He acknowledged the sharp blow and destruction but underscored the country’s resilience. We want to assure travellers that Sri Lanka remains safe. Our teams are on the ground, our infrastructure is being restored and our hospitality sector stands ready to welcome visitors as recovery unfolds.

He said “New the waters have receded, and Sri Lanka is ready to welcome the world. Cyclone Ditwah swept through the island with devastating force, but in its aftermath, a story of resilience, beauty and unwavering hospitality has emerged – one that travellers are invited to witness firsthand”.

For travellers, this is a chance to experience a Sri Lanka that is vibrant and sparkling with life where cultural heritage, natural beauty and warm hospitality blend. Cyclone Ditwah may have left a mark, but it could not dim the island’s radiance.

The Tourism sector is preparing to move forward with renewed emphasis on resilience, safety and rebuilding confidence among international travellers. Sri Lanka has weathered the storm and the world is already sailing back to its shores.

Life style

Championing mental health, rehabilitation, and social upliftment

Published

6 days ago

2025/12/14

Thilina Walpola

Directors of Tiesh and Stephanie

Tiesh jewellery , announced a meaningful partnership with the Infinite Grace Foundation Sri Lanka, an organisation dedicated to transforming lives through love, dignity, purpose, and long-term social impact.

This collaboration marks a significant milestone as two Sri Lankan entities join hands to address some of the country’s most urgent and overlooked challenges, including mental health, drug addiction, prisoner rehabilitation, anti-human trafficking awareness, and the empowerment of estate communities.

Founded on the belief that “Every life deserves to be seen and loved,” the Infinite Grace Foundation symbolises hope, transformation, and inclusion. The Foundation works to extend a lifeline to those often ignored or marginalised, ensuring they are reminded that they are valued, loved, and never alone.

Their vision is deeply aligned to create a Clean Sri Lanka—not only in its physical environment, but in its hearts, minds, and communities. Through systemic intervention, awareness, and rehabilitation, the organisation aims to restore dignity, provide second chances, and help individuals reclaim their potential.

Stephanie Siriwardhana, Founder of the Infinite Grace Foundation and Brand Ambassador for Pure Gold by Tiesh

As part of its awareness and empowerment initiatives, Infinite Grace Foundation has launched the “I See You” campaign—an effort to recognise, support, and uplift individuals who have long been overlooked. Through this campaign, the foundation aims to promote year-round advocacy, encompassing mental health support, panel discussions, and collaborations with organisations and hotlines that support vulnerable groups across the island.

In support of this meaningful initiative, Tiesh has designed an exclusive jewellery collection created with intention and purpose. All proceeds from the collection will be donated directly to the Infinite Grace Foundation. The range features intricately crafted earrings, pendants, chains, rings, and more for women, as well as bracelets, cufflinks, lapel pins, and rings for men. Offered in diamonds, as well as gold and silver, each piece carries a profound message—that every life deserves to be seen, acknowledged, and loved.

With a legacy spanning more than two decades, Tiesh founded by Lasantha and Bryony De Fonseka, has become synonymous with innovation, excellence, and artistry in Sri Lanka’s jewellery landscape. Today, the family-run business is led by the next generation, with Directors Ayesh De Fonseka and Thiyasha De Fonseka continuing to uphold the brand’s commitment to integrity, community, and craftsmanship.

Stephanie Siriwardhana, Founder of the Infinite Grace Foundation and Brand Ambassador for Pure Gold by Tiesh, expressed the impact of this partnership: “This collaboration is special in many ways, and I’m truly grateful that a prestigious jeweller like Tiesh cares about communities that are often unseen—such as prisoners and estate workers. When you change one life, you change a family. When families transform, communities transform, and soon you change the nation. This initiative comes from a personal place. Many people struggle to ask for help, including myself. Through the ‘I See You’ campaign, we aim to provide support, raise awareness, and offer year-round mental health programs, alongside organisations and hotlines that are equipped to help victims and individuals in need. This partnership with Tiesh will be deeply impactful.”

The work of the Infinite Grace Foundation spans multiple critical pillars, including prison reforms, addiction rehabilitation, community education, vocational training, anti-human trafficking awareness, and mental health destigmatisation—all designed to create long-term, sustainable change across Sri Lanka.

Reflecting on the significance of the collaboration, Director of Tiesh, Ayesh De Fonseka, added, “Helping the community is rooted in our beliefs and upbringing. This partnership presented a meaningful opportunity to give back and support an important cause. We believe in second chances, and many individuals need guidance, care, and the opportunity to rebuild their lives. We are honoured to donate all profits from this collection. In the future, we hope to extend support further by offering job opportunities—whether in jewellery craftsmanship, box making, design, or other livelihood pathways.”

Through this partnership, Tiesh and Infinite Grace Foundation reaffirm their shared commitment to building a Sri Lanka where hope thrives, opportunities are equitable, and transformation is within reach for all.

For those wishing to support this initiative or explore the special collection, please visit the Tiesh showroom at 253 R. A. De Mel Mawatha, Colombo 03, or follow Tiesh on social media for updates and campaign information.