Life style
THE VULNERABLE SRI LANKAN LEOPARD: One of only two island sub-species
Sri Lanka Leopard Day today
by Rukshan Jayewardene
Today, leopards live in 26 range countries scattered across the African and Asian continents and are subdivided into nine sub-species based on their genetic divergence and distinction. Of these, the Sri Lankan leopard (Panthera pardus kotiya) is one of only two sub-species restricted to islands. The other sub-species (Panthera pardus melas) live on the Indonesian Island of Java. The Javan leopard clings precariously to existence in several protected areas and high-altitude forests. Their total number is estimated to be down to 250 adult individuals and it is considered to be critically endangered by IUCN. Java’s forest cover is also below 10% of the total land area of the island. The predicament faced by the Javan leopard should be a wake-up call for all those who wish to ensure the conservation of the Sri Lankan leopard.
Population pressure, land conversion to agriculture (loss of habitat), prey depletion and untimely death at the hands of humans are common problems faced by these two island leopards. If one were to make a geophysical comparison of these two tropical islands, Java has a land area of 128,297 sq km and 145 million people (2015) while the island of Sri Lanka has an area of 65,610 sq km and 22 million people. Therefore, Java has approximately twice the land area of Sri Lanka and six and a half times its population. When compared in this way, it is plain to see that Java’s pressure on the land for agriculture and settlements is immense. Although Sri Lanka’s equation is far better, we are still a densely populated agricultural land, with our population unevenly distributed across the island. This so called maldistribution allows for living space for wildlife away from humans, especially in the comparatively sparsely populated dry zone districts.
An irreplaceable role
Wise land use policies and practice, and the strict enforcement of the laws that govern the extensive protected area network, is a key to conservation of all but the elephant (who require separate attention). Recent reversals regarding the legal safeguards put in place to conserve forest land, as well as haphazard, non-consultative land use policies especially concerning agriculture has accelerated deforestation, wildlife habitat loss and population pressure on wilderness lands.
The leopard is an important animal in the wild, a keystone species that plays an important regulatory role in the eco-systems in which they naturally occur. Here, in Sri Lanka, it is an apex predator (at the apex of all food webs on land), plays an irreplaceable role, and its extirpation would create a void that cannot be filled by any other animal. The leopard can be characterized by three qualities; intelligence, adaptability and resilience. Its intelligence and agility makes the leopard a behaviorally interesting animal, and its beauty makes it one of the most sought after wild animals in the world.
A counter-productive ‘numbers’ game
The leopard’s tourism potential is not fully utilized and generally mismanaged by both the government and private sectors. It is a special animal that needs focused conservation attention as well as knowledgeable field guides, trackers and naturalists. Up to this point in time, the bulk of wildlife tourism is sustained by the mass market and package tours that this country courts. These tours are unwieldy for the most part and consist of “beach holiday” visitors who are only cursorily interested in this valuable and fragile resource of ours. Therefore, tourism’s stamp on the protected areas of Sri Lanka is heavy, ecologically insensitive and for the most part ignorantly so.
Leopard-centric tourism, as practiced by this country, exerts damaging pressure on a few national parks that are victims of their own popularity. If this valuable animal and its habitat are to be protected, and at the same time maximum revenue is to be earned, it is never going to be done through a tourist arrival head count. Wildlife/nature/eco-tourism as practiced in this country is a ‘numbers game’ which is counter-productive to the long-term conservation of species and habitats.
Starving a Natural Heritage
Importantly the Department of Wildlife Conservation has to be empowered with manpower, legal knowledge and capacity, as well as state-of-the-art training and other material resources to deal with the ever more sophisticated threat posed by poachers and encroachers within and outside protected areas. As long as wildlife and wilderness remain a State monopoly in the custodianship of the government, legislators must see fit to give the relevant departments adequate funds and resources as stated above to enable effective conservation.
By starving these ministries and departments of resources, a case cannot be made for privatization of the natural heritage common to all present and future Sri Lankan citizens. In Sri Lanka natural assets in private hands have always been governed by an overriding profit motive and exclusivity which is not conducive to managing natural assets for the benefit of its citizenry Alternatively Public-Private partnerships are an option that can be explored. However, regulatory mechanisms and oversight must remain in government hands at all times or else these too will not serve the nation in any meaningful fashion.
On this Sri Lankan “Leopard Day” while celebrating this unique animal, it is apposite to give thought to the management of wild leopards as much as the concerns regarding their conservation.
Pix by Rukshan Jayewardene
Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Bungalow
The grand opening of Peace Haven Bungalow at Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle was celebrated with an unforgettable evening of opera. Guests were serenaded by internationally renowned talents including Concert Pianist Jean-Marc Pont Marchesi from Paris, Soprano Chrisni Mendis from Rome and Sri Lanka, and Russian Tenor Sergei Radchenko. These acclaimed artists were joined by celebrated local performers Indika Upamali and Subuddhi Lakmali, supported by Sanithi Dias, Manoj Sanjeewa, Madhava Bandara, Tusith Simpson, and Anosh Ismail. Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort, part of Minor Hotels,recently the resort’s most exclusive and luxurious event venue to date. It was a grand evening of glitz,glamour and entertainment.
Nestled along Sri Lanka’s breathtaking southern coastline, Peace Haven Bungalow offers a stunning canvas for elegant weddings, private occasions, and high-end MICE events, blending timeless elegance with signature Anantara hospitality.
Perched on a cliff with panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, this bungalow offers a unique setting for up to 200 guests. As the only venue of its kind along Sri Lanka’s southern coast, it answers the growing demand for world-class luxury event spaces in the region with bespoke event planning and immersive culinary experiences.
Following the magnificent performance, guests enjoyed a lavish dinner and wine pairing experience, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Indian Ocean.
“This evening marks the beginning of an extraordinary journey for Peace Haven Bungalow,” said Erik Billgren, General Manager of Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort. “This venue is not just a space; it’s a catalyst for change in how we envision luxury celebrations, stories, and moments. Our signature Anantara hospitality is geared to uniquely cater to each guest from this stunning vantage point on Sri Lanka’s southern coast.”
The creation of Peace Haven Bungalow represents a shared vision with Hemas Holdings PLC, a partnership that harmoniously combines heritage, innovation, and a deep appreciation for Sri Lanka’s natural beauty. Offering panoramic ocean views, impeccable design, and tailored service, the venue is poised to set a new benchmark for premier events in Sri Lanka and beyond.
Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort is set within a 22-acre coconut plantation, The resort is the only property in Tangalle situated on a rocky outcrop, offering a secluded and scenic retreat along Sri Lanka’s rugged southern coastline. The resort features 152 rooms and villas, including 14 Garden Pool Villas, 10 Ocean View Pool Villas, six Beach Pool Villas, and two -bedroom garden pool villas.
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- Arrival of Ranil Wickremesinghe and Maithree Wickramasinghe
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- Barbara Segal and Hemant Dadlani
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- General Manager of Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort – Erik Billgren addresses the gathering
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- (L to R) Tasneem Moosajee, Shyamalee Tudawe, Kishore Reddy, Champika De Silva and two other guests of the event
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- Dinner followed by the Opera event
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- The team who performed at the Opera event
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- Event setup
Cinnamon Lakeside , the epitome of luxury and refined hospitality hosted a spectacular two-day dining experience at its acclaimed Royal Thai Restaurant to commemorate Songkran, the cherished Thai New Year Festival,recently
This exclusive event was graced by the esteemed presence of ambassadors, high-profile media representatives, dignitaries, and distinguished guests who gathered to immerse themselves in a sumptuous celebration of Thai culture and cuisine. Kamal Munasinghe, Area Vice President, warmly welcomed attendees, setting a tone of elegance and cultural reverence.
The evenings unfolded in a spectacular tapestry of flavours and traditions, masterfully curated by the culinary team of The Royal Thai Restaurant. Guests were delighted by an exquisite menu, reflecting authentic Thai culinary artistry, presented with flawless sophistication and meticulous attention to detail.
The vibrant ambiance was accentuated by opulent décor reflecting the essence of Songkran. Guests were enchanted by captivating traditional Thai performances and authentic rituals that beautifully symbolized the renewal and prosperity at the heart of Songkran.
Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo continues to be celebrated as a beacon of glamour and hospitality, curating unforgettable experiences that blend rich cultural traditions with modern elegance.
Pix by Darmasena Welipitiya
“Walk to Equality” – A Fashion Show Celebrating Life Without Labels was held recently, media representatives and distinguished guests gathered at Cinnamon Grand Colombo for the official press conference of the Walk to Equality fashion show It was an inspiring initiative presented by The Walk Model Academy in partnership with Cinnamon Grand Colombo. With the powerful tagline “Life Without Labels,” this event aims to redefine fashion by championing inclusivity, diversity, and empowerment.
Set to take place on May 19th, the Walk to Equality fashion show will feature a groundbreaking lineup of models, highlighting their confidence and individuality on the runway. This bold move challenges conventional beauty standards while providing a platform for often underrepresented voices in the fashion world.
The press conference offered a heartfelt look into the mission behind the show and the stories of the individuals involved. Organizers emphasized the transformative nature of the initiative—not just as a show, but as a movement. With a strong focus on social impact, the event seeks to promote empathy, equality, and acceptance through the universal language of fashion.
Collaborating closely with the Equality team and a host of creative partners, the show has become a beacon of what’s possible when communities unite for a common cause. The behind-the-scenes journey, from training to fittings, has been designed to uplift and empower each model, making the event more than just a moment on the runway—it’s a celebration of strength and self-expression.
Tickets for the Walk to Equality fashion show are now available for purchase online, with proceeds going toward the Meals on Wheels charitable cause, supporting rural children in need. Those interested in attending, contributing, or simply spreading awareness are encouraged to visit our social media channels for updates, ticket information, or to become a well-wisher for this important initiative.
The Academy extended thier deepest gratitude to all who have helped bring this vision to life. They shared a special thank you to Cinnamon Grand Colombo, title and hospitality partner, for their continued belief in the power of inclusion. They extended thier thanks for all their generous sponsors for thier support and help
Together, we walk toward a world where every life is valued, and every person is seen—a life without labels sums up thier motto
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