Life style

The tragedy of Afghanistan. Is there a way forward?

Published

5 years ago

2021/08/22

by Anoja Wijesekera

The desperate scenes at Kabul airport of Afghans trying to flee and the image of the US Airforce flight taxi-ing down the runway while people were trying to board it, and hundreds running alongside, is an image that will be etched in our minds forever.

The tragedy of Afghanistan is that the same saga of desperation and suffering has been repeatedly endured by ordinary Afghans who have been at the receiving end of war, throughout their lives. They have suffered death, loss of limbs, loss of breadwinners, loss of livelihoods, the destruction of their homes, the trauma of displacement, the horrors of seeing their loved ones killed before their very eyes, squalor, pain, hunger and cold, for over four decades.

At a human level, the Afghans feel betrayed by the Western Alliance and the US. This is not the first time but the second. When the Russians invaded Afghanistan in 1979, there was no overt resistance from the West. However, the Afghan warlords and their supporters who provided some resistance were armed and funded by the CIA, via the ISI of Pakistan, in order to defeat the Russians. The Afghans paid a heavy price; an estimated two million died another two million lost their limbs and approximately 800,000 women became widows. The entire infrastructure of the country was destroyed.

Once the Russians left, the US turned its back on Afghanistan and paid no heed to help in the reconstruction and development of that battered land. This was the first experience of betrayal and it was also at that time, that Osama Bin Laden who was an ally of the US and a part of the Mujahideen, became its sworn enemy.

The second episode took place after 9/11. In order to get at Osama Bin Laden, the mastermind of the 9/11 attacks, the US invaded Afghanistan. Although Osama Bin Laden had already left Afghanistan, many bombs were dropped, followed by drone attacks. Large numbers of civilians including women and children were killed as a result, throughout this 20-year period. Now in August 2021, with no proper system in place to ensure peace and stability, the US forces simply left. Even General David Petraeus, former Commander of the US forces in Afghanistan and former Director of the CIA, expressed his shock when interviewed on TV. For the Afghans, in their hour of need, the sudden and inexplicable departure of their President, Ashraf Ghani, is an even greater disappointment that they find hard to bear.

It is difficult to think that President Ghani left because he wanted to save his own skin. It is possible that this was part of a hasty deal worked out with the Taliban that went hand in hand with the sudden withdrawal of American troops. By paving the way for the Taliban to enter Kabul unhindered, and with no resistance offered by the Afghan army, a blood bath was averted. The destruction of the infrastructure and livelihoods in Kabul was also prevented. In turn, it is possible that the Taliban agreed to all the concessions that they announced during their press conference in Kabul, on 17.8.21.

The Taliban spokesman declared that an amnesty has been granted to all those who opposed them and that all citizens should remain in Afghanistan and help in re-building the country. They announced that all would be safe and that they forgive those who fought against them, and in turn that they should be forgiven. The Taliban stated that women would be allowed education and the right to work, as per the dictates of Sharia Law. It was also announced that no one will be allowed to use Afghanistan to attack other countries and that opium cultivation and its trading would be stopped. There was an indication that an inclusive government would be formed, but under their command.

The inevitable takeover of the country by the Taliban should come as no surprise to anyone, as it was evident right from the start. There is a popular Taliban saying “You have the watches, we have the time. We were born here and will die here. We are not going anywhere”.

A look at the map of Afghanistan, showing the areas under Taliban control indicates clearly how the Taliban gradually and surely increased the areas under their control over these 20 years. The take over of Kabul on August 16, 2021, was just the last lap of the race and was a parting gift offered on a platter by the US, when it hurriedly withdrew its troops out of Bagram airport, with no apparent handover and no declared plan for governance.

The Western misadventure is but a repetition of the history of Afghanistan. No foreign invader has ever been able to hold Afghanistan for long or maintain governments of their liking for any length of time. In the 13th Century the mighty army of Genghis Khan was massacred by the Afghans. In the 19th century, in the heyday of the Empire, the British sent a garrison to Kabul and each and every soldier except one, was slaughtered. In the 20th Century, the USSR invaded Afghanistan and were defeated in no uncertain terms, despite their weaponry and might.

There is a saying that those who don’t learn the lessons of history are doomed to repeat them. The US did not learn from what happened to the Russians or from their own experience in Vietnam. At a time when the TV footage is showing the desperation of the Afghans, the efforts made by the US government to justify their hasty departure and declare to the world that their mission in Afghanistan was a success rings hollow and indicates a cynical disregard for the horrific ground situation. Subsequently the US announced that it would help Afghans who worked for them, to seek refuge in the US.

Now, as things evolve, whatever working arrangements are agreed with the previous administration and other stakeholders, the reality is that the Taliban is back in power and seem to be determined to recreate their “Emirate”, characterised by the strict imposition of Sharia Law. The Taliban has declared repeatedly that they would allow female education this time round, indicating a softening of their stance. However, the news from the areas under their control, indicate that their rhetoric is at variance with the ground realities in some places. When questioned on this, the Taliban spokesman said that all such incidents would be investigated.

I served with UNICEF in Afghanistan, in the years 1997 to 2001, both in Jalalabad and Kabul and am therefore very familiar with the draconian regulations of the Taliban.

The Taliban brand of Sharia Law imposed during their time in office, which was from 1996 to 2001, was particularly geared towards the ruthless limitation of women’s freedom and rights. Women were debarred from working and girls’ education was banned. Women were restricted to domestic work in their own compounds. When going out, they were forced to wear a “burka” that covered them from head to foot. At the time I was there, they passed the Maharam Edict, which dictated that women could not walk alone on the streets. A woman had to be accompanied by a “Maharam” meaning husband, brother or son or a very close male relative.

Failure to do so resulted in getting beaten on the roadside. The Beard Law, meant that all men had to grow beards. Men were prohibited from even trimming their beards. Both men and women were beaten in public if they flouted these regulations. Even some of our own staff members were flogged in public for trimming their beards. The Taliban brand of justice was meted out on the streets, by their vice squads, who beat you first and asked questions later.

Music was prohibited. All musical instruments were destroyed. Music playing in vehicles was banned. TV, films, entertainment, gatherings of men and women together were prohibited.

Under the Taliban regime, at the time, people had to pray five times a day regardless of any consideration. At prayer time people had to stop whatever they were doing and turn towards Mecca and go down on their knees or be beaten even on the road-side. The penalty for theft was the amputation of limbs and the punishment for adultery was stoning to death. The football stadium in Kabul was an arena where these horrific acts were performed in front of an audience. There was no judicial system and no due process. An accusation was regarded as sufficient evidence of having committed a crime.

Games including card games and board games were prohibited. Iconography, art, photographs and images were destroyed. Priceless artefacts in the Kabul Museum were smashed to smithereens and we are all too aware of what happened to the Bamiyan Buddha statues, which were priceless treasures and a wonder of the ancient world.

When I first went to Afghanistan in 1997, as the UNICEF Resident Project Officer in Jalalabad, the Taliban refused to look at me, as I happened to belong to the female gender. At meetings, which were all male events, they would look away from me with an expression of total disgust and would keep their heads turned away from me, when speaking to me. They clearly indicated that meeting with a woman was abhorrent to them. One Mullah even went to the extent of covering his own face when he had to pass by me. I found this utterly amusing and did not let it bother me.

After a couple of months of this icy reception, which I considered to be a farcical comedy, they gradually thawed and even shook my hand and became friendly. The Mayor of Jalalabad, who earlier covered his face, became particularly friendly and had many conversations with me, in English, declaring that he did not oppose girls’ education. I learned that he was educated to degree level. I said to my staff that I thought that perhaps the Taliban thought that I had turned into a man! As time passed, many Taliban officials and heads of departments, said that they regarded me as a sister.

After the closure of girls’ schools when female teachers lost their jobs, Home Schools were started by them in their own compounds, which UNICEF supported. As the Home Schools progressed, and grew by the day, I began to think that perhaps even the Taliban sent their daughters to those schools.

It was evident that some of the educated Taliban knew the value of education. Most of their foot soldiers however have only been to a Madrassa [Islamic school], where the curriculum consists of memorising the Quran, studying Arabic and learning the art of guerrilla warfare. However, the educated Taliban realise that it is important to address economic, social, health and educational issues, in addition to implementing their draconian version of Sharia Law.

Since I had to work with the Taliban government on a daily basis, I thought to myself that the Taliban are after all human beings and I decided even before I took up my assignment, that I will simply deal with them as one human being to another. Therefore, I accorded them the due respect they were entitled to on account of the office they held and regarded them as fellow citizens of the world. I followed the dictum that one has to give respect to get respect. This formula was effective and very soon they cooperated with me and my colleagues on all the programmes UNICEF had to implement, including our efforts to promote maternal and child health, and the inclusion of women in some of the activities.

However, each activity which involved the participation of women, was implemented with due consideration and in a very low-key manner. I was guided by my Afghan colleagues who knew exactly how to approach this problem. The Taliban departmental heads also gave tacit approval for the participation of women in our programmes, as the women had to be paid through a government department, as per UN regulations.

Towards the end of my tenure, when the Bamiyan Buddha statues were blown up, and I was devastated, one senior Taliban minister apologised to me, as he knew that I was a Buddhist. He said to me that many people in the Taliban government opposed this action, implying that the Bamiyan Buddhas were a part of their own heritage, which they respected. The Afghans reported that the Buddha statues were not destroyed by the Taliban, but by the Al Qaeda, who were Arabs. They cried and said to me, “the Taliban has destroyed our future and now they have destroyed our past, we have nothing left”.

In the present context, following the fall of Kabul, the only hope for the future is that the Taliban will take a more enlightened approach and modify their agenda. This will be important for them, in gaining international recognition and much-needed aid.

In my opinion it would be a mistake on the part of the international community to impose sanctions as that would only hurt the poor and vulnerable. To regard the Taliban regime as a pariah state would also not be fruitful as that will only make them even more adamant in pursing inhuman practices. It is only through engagement and genuine dialogue that the international community will be able to help Afghanistan and influence the Taliban to be more responsible and mature in their approach.

At the time of writing this article, following the press conference and interview given by their spokesman in Kabul, all indications are that the Taliban have indeed changed and matured and wish to form an inclusive government and have softened their stance on the rights of women. The spokesman repeated that everything will be done within the bounds of Sharia Law. I hope that since they were last in power, which was 20 years ago, that they have gained greater wisdom in their interpretation of Sharia Law.

It is imperative upon the international community to now step up on their humanitarian assistance and ensure that starvation, destitution and a colossal human tragedy is averted and that the displaced are assisted to return to their homes. Already more than 50% of Afghans are in need of food aid, on account of the severe drought that has hit the country. Childhood malnutrition has increased and Covid is on the rise. UNCEF, WFP and the other UN humanitarian agencies are in place and are working round the clock.

The UN Secretary General has already made an appeal to donor countries to increase their assistance. The US and its allies who spent billions in weaponry and military hardware, need to now genuinely engage with the Taliban and help in developing and funding a workable plan for the development of Afghanistan, with the participation of the UN agencies, so that a sincere attempt is made at long last, to improve the lives of all Afghans. This is the best safeguard against the country descending once again into civil war and becoming a breeding ground for terrorism.

On reflection, the famous saying that “In wars there are no winners, there are only losers” is indeed true. The Taliban has lost thousands of fighters: no statistics are available. There would be hundreds with severe wounds and injuries. In fact, some of the Taliban leaders during the time I was there had serious war injuries and suffered from the resulting disabilities. On the side of the Western Alliance, large numbers of soldiers have died and some are left with lifelong injuries and disabilities and are suffering every day.

Many American and British soldiers who served in Afghanistan experienced severe forms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorders [PTSD], that led to a number of suicides, after their return home. The BBC quoted in a Panorama programme that in 2012, more British soldiers took their own lives after their return from combat duty in Afghanistan, than the number killed on the battle field. These suicides were caused by PTSD and depression. Taliban soldiers who are the poorest of the poor, too have suffered enormously. What support is there for them? Do we even know how many of them were killed or injured?

It is up to the world to now help Afghanistan, and not turn its back on it. The Afghans need maximum help and support to recover from this unspeakable tragedy. The Islamic countries in particular, that helped the Taliban to wage war, now need to come to their aid, to build peace. ‘Islam’ in Arabic means peace. Therefore, the Islamic world needs to exert influence on the Taliban and support them to evolve from ruthless fighters into a group of leaders, who can govern with compassion and wisdom and bring about long-lasting peace and stability to that beautiful country – Afghanistan.

Anoja Wijeyesekera

[former UNICEF Resident Project Officer, Kabul from 1999 – 2001

and former UNICEF Resident Project Officer, Jalalabad from 1997 – 1999]

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Life style

From culture to empowerment: Indonesia’s vision for Sri Lanka

Published

3 days ago

2026/03/15

Thilina Walpola

Ambassador draped in a vibrant Sri Lankan batik skirt

In a world where diplomacy often moves quietly behind closed doors, ambassadors serve as the living bridge between nations, culture and peoples.

The Indonesian Ambassador to Sri Lanka Dewi Gustina Tobing carries this responsibility with a vision that goes behind protocol seeking to deepen ties, foster mutual understanding and showcase the richness of Indonesian heritage to a Sri Lankan audience. From trade and tourism to cultural exchange and the role of woman in society, the Ambassador embodies the naunced, multifaceted relationship between two nations with shared histories and aspirations, In this exclusive interview, we explore perspectives that span politics, culture and social development and gain a glimpse into the mindset of a diplomat whose mission is about connection as it is about representation.

(Q) How would you describe the current state of relations between Indonesia and Sri Lanka and what excites you most about its future?

(A) Indonesia and Sri Lanka today enjoy warm, stable, and cooperative relations, rooted in shared history, non-aligned foreign policy traditions, and a common identity as Indian Ocean nations. Politically, the relationship is cordial and pragmatic, with regular diplomatic engagement and mutual support in multilateral forums such as the United Nations, the Non-Aligned Movement, the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), and historically within the Colombo Plan framework. Neither country sees the other as a strategic rival; instead, they approach the relationship with goodwill and respect for sovereignty.

Economically, ties are positive but still under-realized. Trade has been growing gradually, particularly in areas such as textiles, rubber, coconut oil, spices, and pharmaceuticals. There is also cooperation in maritime affairs, fisheries, disaster management, and education, reflecting shared development priorities as archipelagic and coastal states. Through the Colombo Plan, both countries have benefited from and contributed to technical cooperation, capacity building, and human resource development, strengthening institutional and educational linkages across South and Southeast Asia.

Culturally, the relationship is enriched by deep historical links—from ancient Buddhist connections and Indian Ocean trade routes to modern people-to-people exchanges. Educational scholarships and professional training programmes under the Colombo Plan further reinforce these soft-power ties, giving the relationship a natural resilience beyond day-to-day politics.

What excites me most about the future of Indonesia–Sri Lanka relations is the untapped strategic potential of Indian Ocean cooperation. Both countries are well positioned to work together on:

• Maritime security and blue economy initiatives

• Port development and logistics connectivity

• Renewable energy and climate resilience

• Tourism, cultural exchange, and education (including expanded Colombo Plan–style exchanges)

• South–Southeast Asia economic linkages

As global attention increasingly shifts toward the Indo-Pacific and the Indian Ocean, Indonesia and Sri Lanka have a real opportunity to elevate their partnership from friendly to truly strategic—not through military alignment, but through trade, sustainability, human capital development, and inclusive regional leadership. The continued relevance of the Colombo Plan’s cooperative spirit adds an important historical foundation to that future-oriented partnership.

(Q) Indonesia and Sri Lanka share deep maritime and Buddhist histories. How can these be translated into modern diplomatic partnerships ?

(A) Indonesia and Sri Lanka share deep maritime and Buddhist histories that can be translated into modern diplomatic partnerships by:

• Strengthening maritime cooperation, including port connectivity, blue economy initiatives, Indian Ocean security dialogue, and enhanced fisheries cooperation—such as sustainable fishery management, combating illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, aquaculture development, and joint research on marine resources

• Promoting cultural and religious diplomacy, especially through Buddhist heritage exchanges, education, and tourism

• Expanding people-to-people ties, such as academic collaboration, monk exchanges, cultural programs, and technical exchanges in marine and coastal livelihoods

• Deepening multilateral cooperation, particularly within the Indian Ocean Rim Association and the United Nations

By turning shared history into practical cooperation—including stronger collaboration in fisheries and marine sustainability—both countries can build a forward-looking, resilient, and mutually beneficial diplomatic partnership rooted in their shared identity as Indian Ocean nations.

(Q) What are your priorities during your tenure as Indonesia’s envoy to Sri Lanka?

(A) During my tenure as Indonesian’s envoy to Sri Lanka, my priorities would be:

Strengthening Bilateral Relations

Deepen political and diplomatic ties through regular high-level engagements and close coordination between our governments, based on mutual respect and shared regional interests.

Enhancing Economic and Trade Cooperation

Promote two-way trade, investment, and tourism by identifying new opportunities, supporting business partnerships, and encouraging collaboration in sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, maritime industries, and the digital economy.

Promoting People-to-People and Cultural Exchanges

Foster closer connections between Indonesians and Sri Lankans through education, cultural diplomacy, tourism, and cooperation among youth, academics, and civil society.

Cooperation in Regional and Multilateral Forums

Strengthen collaboration within ASEAN–South Asia frameworks, the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), and other multilateral platforms to address shared challenges such as maritime security, climate change, and sustainable development.

Consular Protection and Citizen Services

Ensure the welfare, safety, and rights of Indonesian citizens in Sri Lanka while improving consular services and outreach.

Promoting Peace, Stability, and Sustainable Development

Support dialogue, inclusivity, and cooperation that contribute to regional stability and sustainable economic growth, drawing on Indonesia’s own experiences in democracy and development.

These priorities would guide my efforts to build a strong, forward-looking partnership between Indonesia and Sri Lanka.

(Q) As a woman leading Indonesia’s diplomatic mission, what unique perspectives do you bring to diplomacy?

(A) As a woman leading Indonesia’s diplomatic mission, I bring an inclusive and empathetic approach to diplomacy that values dialogue, collaboration, and mutual respect. I believe effective diplomacy benefits from listening carefully to diverse perspectives and building consensus through understanding and trust.

I also bring a strong commitment to promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment, both within the diplomatic mission and in our broader cooperation with Sri Lanka. By encouraging the participation of women and youth in economic, social, and peace-building initiatives, diplomacy becomes more representative and sustainable.

Most importantly, I bring professionalism, resilience, and Indonesia’s values of tolerance and cooperation, demonstrating that leadership in diplomacy is defined by integrity, capability, and dedication rather than gender.

(Q) How does Indonesia promote women’s participation and leadership on the global stage?

(A) Indonesia promotes women’s participation and leadership on the global stage through a combination of national policies, international advocacy, and practical cooperation.

At the national level, Indonesia has strengthened legal and institutional frameworks to advance gender equality, including policies that support women’s leadership in politics, the civil service, diplomacy, and the economy. Women increasingly serve as ministers, ambassadors, peacekeepers, and senior officials, reflecting Indonesia’s commitment to inclusive leadership.

At the international level, Indonesia actively advocates for the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) agenda in multilateral forums such as the United Nations, ASEAN, and the G20. Indonesia supports the meaningful participation of women in peace processes, conflict prevention, and post-conflict reconstruction, and contributes female peacekeepers and mediators to international missions.

Indonesia also promotes women’s economic empowerment globally by supporting women entrepreneurs, MSMEs, and digital inclusion initiatives through South–South and triangular cooperation, particularly with developing countries.

Through diplomacy, development cooperation, and example, Indonesia demonstrates that empowering women is essential to sustainable peace, economic growth, and effective global governance.

(Q) Indonesia culture from batik and cuisine and cinema has a powerful global appeal. How import is a culture as a diplomatic tool?

(A) Culture is a very important diplomatic tool because it builds understanding and trust in ways that formal diplomacy alone cannot. Through culture—such as batik, cuisine, cinema, music, and traditional arts—Indonesia shares its values of diversity, tolerance, and creativity with the world in a way that is accessible and engaging.

Cultural diplomacy helps people connect at a human level. When people experience Indonesian culture, they gain a deeper appreciation of Indonesia’s history, identity, and pluralistic society. This strengthens people-to-people ties, reduces misunderstandings, and creates a positive foundation for political, economic, and social cooperation.

An increasingly important driver of this cultural diplomacy is the role of the millennial and Gen Z generations. Young Indonesians actively promote batik, cuisine, and cinema through digital platforms, social media campaigns, creative start-ups, and international collaborations. By modernizing traditional batik designs, creating contemporary culinary brands, and producing globally relevant films, they make Indonesian culture more accessible to international audiences. Through influencers, content creators, student exchanges, film festivals, and culinary pop-ups abroad, millennials act as informal cultural ambassadors who bridge local heritage with global trends.

Culture also supports broader diplomatic objectives. It promotes tourism, encourages creative-industry partnerships, and opens opportunities for education and cultural exchange. Indonesian cinema and cuisine, for example, showcase contemporary stories and innovation while preserving tradition, making Indonesia relatable and relevant globally. Digital-native generations amplify this impact by leveraging technology, cross-cultural networks, and entrepreneurial creativity to expand Indonesia’s cultural reach.

In essence, culture is a form of soft power. It allows Indonesia to project a positive image, foster mutual respect, and build long-term relationships. With millennials and young creatives at the forefront—championing batik as sustainable fashion, cuisine as global culinary diplomacy, and cinema as a platform for storytelling—Indonesia’s cultural diplomacy becomes more dynamic, participatory, and influential in shaping global perceptions.

(Q) What drew you to a career in diplomacy and who inspired you along the way?

(A) I was drawn to a career in diplomacy by a strong desire to serve my country while building bridges between nations. From an early stage, I was fascinated by how dialogue, understanding, and cooperation could resolve differences and create opportunities for mutual benefit. Diplomacy offered a path to represent Indonesia’s values, interests, and diversity on the global stage while contributing to peace and development.

Along the way, I was inspired by Indonesia’s senior diplomats and national leaders who demonstrated integrity, professionalism, and a deep commitment to multilateralism and international cooperation. I was also inspired by women leaders—both in Indonesia and internationally—who showed that perseverance, competence, and principled leadership can overcome barriers and create meaningful change.

Equally important were mentors and colleagues who emphasized the importance of listening, cultural sensitivity, and empathy in diplomacy. Their guidance reinforced my belief that effective diplomacy is not only about negotiation, but also about building trust and lasting relationships between people and nations.

(Q) Are there places people or moments in Sri Lanka that have left a lasting impression on you?

(A) Yes, Sri Lanka has left a strong and lasting impression on me through its places, people, and moments. The warmth and generosity of the Sri Lankan people stand out most clearly. In my interactions, I have consistently felt a genuine openness and hospitality that make engagement both meaningful and memorable.

Sri Lanka’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage is also deeply impressive. Visiting historic and sacred sites—such as ancient temples, cultural cities, and places of worship—reflects the country’s deep sense of history, resilience, and diversity. These places convey values of tolerance and coexistence that resonate strongly with Indonesia’s own multicultural identity.

Equally memorable are moments of everyday interaction: conversations with community leaders, students, artists, and businesspeople who are optimistic about the future and committed to rebuilding and progress. These encounters highlight Sri Lanka’s strength, dignity, and potential, and they reinforce my commitment to further strengthening the friendship between Indonesia and Sri Lanka.

(Q) How do you balance the demands of high level diplomacy with personal well being?

(A) Balancing the demands of high-level diplomacy with personal well-being requires deliberate focus, discipline, and self-awareness. Diplomacy often involves long hours, complex negotiations, and high-stakes decision-making, so maintaining mental, emotional, and physical health is essential to perform effectively.

I prioritize time management and set boundaries to ensure that I have moments for rest, reflection, and personal interests, even amidst a busy schedule. Practices such as regular exercise, reading, and staying connected with family and friends help me recharge and maintain perspective.

Equally important is cultivating a strong support system within the mission, where teamwork, delegation, and mutual trust allow responsibilities to be shared effectively. Mindfulness and self-reflection also help me approach challenges calmly and make decisions with clarity.

Ultimately, maintaining personal well-being is not just about self-care—it is integral to being a resilient, attentive, and effective diplomat, capable of representing Indonesia with focus, energy, and dedication.

(Q) What message would you like to share with Sri Lankan about Indonesia and its people?

(A) I would like to share with the people of Sri Lanka that Indonesia is a nation rich in diversity, culture, and natural beauty, and that its people are warm, resilient, and welcoming. Indonesians value harmony, tolerance, and cooperation, which are reflected in our traditions, arts, and everyday life.

Indonesia is committed to building strong friendships and partnerships with Sri Lanka, grounded in mutual respect and shared interests. We welcome cultural, educational, and economic exchanges, and we hope that more Sri Lankans will experience the richness of Indonesian culture, cuisine, and landscapes first hand.

Above all, I want the people of Sri Lanka to know that Indonesia sees them as close partners and friends. Together, our nations can grow, collaborate, and create opportunities for prosperity, peace, and mutual understanding in the region and beyond.

Life style

Ranjith Fernando celebrates cricketing journey with Hob Nails to Spikes

Published

3 days ago

2026/03/15

Thilina Walpola

The crowd says it all – Ranjith Fernando is a legend on and off the field

The launch of the book “Hob Nails to Spikes” by Ranjith Fernand, a name synonymous with passion, discipline and an enduring love for the game was held at the grand Ballroom of the Galle Face Hotel, drawing a distinguished gathering of cricket enthusiasts, friends and other well-known invitees.

It was a celebration of Ranjith’s remarkable journey in the world of sport, with the book reflecting on memorable experiences, insights and milestones from his long association with cricket. A former national cricketer, and famous TV commentator, he has spent decades nurturing and narrating the story of Sri Lanka cricket. Guests listened to tributes and reflections on his contribution to the game, making the launch a warm and memorable occasion.

Standing firmly was his wife, Ramani Fernando, whose unwavering support has been constant throughout his journey. Known for her own success and elegance, Ramani shared the proud moment as friends and wellwishers gathered to applaud both the book and the inspiring story behind it.

The book reflects Fernando’s experience in cricket – from the early days of the sport to the modern era – sharing ancedotes, insights and stories from a lifetime devoted to the game. The morning was filled with tributes from those who have known him through his playing days, coaching career and his familiar voice in the commentary box.

His articulate commentary and deep knowledge of the game have made him a trusted voice for cricket fans over the years.

By Zanita Careem

: Veteran cricket commentator Ranjith Fernando marks a proud literary milestone at the launch of his book

: Book launch, memories and pride displayed – Ranjith and Chandra Schafter

: Stories, memories, cricket – Ranjith has it all in his book

: Brandon kuruppu, Kumar Dharmasena and Chaminda Vas turning moments into memories

: Chaminda Vas, Romesh Kaluwitharane and Wasim Akram

Life style

Indiya enters a new chapter

Published

3 days ago

2026/03/15

Thilina Walpola

Indiya, the signature Indian restaurant at Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams, enters a new chapter with Chef Mukesh Joshi at the helm. Situated on the spectacular Level 23, the restaurant now offers a dining experience that is as elevated as its views, combining Indian culinary traditions with Sri Lankan influences in a contemporary, family-style format.

Under Chef Mukesh’s leadership, the menu takes guests on a journey across India’s regions. Fragrant rice dishes such as Awadhi Mutton Biryani and Zaffrani Chicken Dum Biryani anchor the experience, while comforting classics like Dal Makhani and Chana Masala bring depth and familiarity to the table. Alongside these are thoughtfully crafted vegetarian preparations, including Kurkuri Bhindi, Hyderabadi Bagara Baingan, and the indulgent Shahi Subz Korma.

The experience unfolds through layers of texture and flavour. Crisp starters such as Sev Papdi Chaat, a generous Pakora Platter, and warming soups set the tone, followed by tandoor-led favourites like Hariyali Tandoori Gobi, Rajma Galouti, and non-vegetarian selections including Jhinga Koliwada, Rawa Fried Surmai, and a classic non-vegetarian Kebab Platter. Freshly baked breads, from Chilli Cheese Naan and flaky Paratha to comforting Aloo Kulcha, arrive ready to be shared.

Seafood and meat preparations showcase Chef Mukesh’s confident spice work and regional storytelling, with dishes such as Jhinga Hara Pyaz, Macchi Malai Curry, Railway Chicken Curry, Kozhi Milagu Fry, Mewari Kheema, and Mutton Bhuna forming the heart of the menu. For those seeking something distinctive, the chef’s special selections, including Tandoori Kaala Jhinga, Pahadi Tandoori Kukkad, Nandu Curry, and the standout Lagoon Jhinga Biryani, offer bold, expressive flavours designed to take centre stage.

The meal concludes on a nostalgic, indulgent note with classic desserts such as Mishti Doi and Kulfi Falooda, bringing warmth and familiarity to the final moments of the dining experience.

Indiya’s new approach moves away from traditional fine dining, focusing instead on bringing people together around the table. Whether it’s a family gathering, a dinner with friends, or a special occasion, the restaurant is designed for connection, conversation, and memorable moments, where every dish reflects care, authenticity, and thoughtful execution.

Chef Mukesh’s career spans India and the UAE, from The Westin and St. Regis Mumbai to Dubai’s India Bistro and Art of Dum, where he led kitchens, designed menus, and executed landmark events. Known for balancing classic flavours with contemporary presentation, Mukesh’s hands-on leadership and commitment to excellence shape every aspect of Indiya, from the ingredients and techniques to the teamwork that brings the dishes to life.

With this new chapter, Indiya offers a dining experience that is vibrant, elevated, and immersive, celebrating Indian cuisine in a way that feels authentic, approachable, and perfectly suited to the city-sized destination of Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams.