Business
Flower arrangement exhibition & demonstration on Feb. 16 & 17
This Exhibition of Ikebana, the Japanese art of flower arranging and the Western art of flower arrangements, will be held on February 16 (11.00 am to 7.00 pm) and February 17 (10.00 am to 6.00 pm) at the Ivy Room of the Cinnamon Grand Hotel, the Shi-en Ikebana and Floral Arts Society of Sri Lanka (SIFAS) announced last week.
A demonstration will be held by members who are experienced arrangers, on February 16 at 4.00p.m. for exhibition ticket holders only. Tickets are priced at a nominal Rs.500 and part proceeds will go to the Thalassemia unit at the Lady Ridgeway Hospital.
“With the usual chaos that we often find ourselves in, finding ways to relax and unwind is crucial for one’s mental health. Flowers provide the solution in that they are a natural stress reliever. The presence of real flowers has been scientifically proven to elevate mood and promote positive emotions. Studies have shown that being in the presence of flowers can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression while increasing feelings of happiness and well-being. In homes and workplaces, they improve the general ambiance and enhance productivity. Their vibrant colors, natural scents, and visual appeal create a pleasant sensory experience that uplifts spirits and improves overall mood,” a press release said.
“Flowers have, always, played a significant and symbolic role in various cultures and societies, symbolizing emotions, traditions, and events. Flowers have the power to evoke these emotions and create meaningful connections. The kind of romance portrayed by flowers such as the passion aroused by red roses, or the purity of a white lily, and all other deep-rooted meanings and symbolism conveyed by real flowers can never be evoked or replicated by artificial flowers. In addition, humans have an innate connection to nature, and flowers provide a tangible link to the natural world, thus they have a significant impact on people’s mental state.”
At “Floral Fusion” the arrangers show innovative & new designs. The displays are as always incredible and inspirational, showcasing some of the most creative floral art seen in Colombo, the release added.
“Expert floral designers from SIFAS will share their knowledge and talents at the demonstration. Particiants will learn how to effectively communicate color and movement in a floral design. There is so much to learn, do and be inspired, with the simple techniques and basic movements demonstrated by the displays of the arrangers. These ideas can be taken and replicated at one’s home or office.
“A visit to “Floral Fusion” is recommended for everyone who appreciates flowers and nature, which is now slowly disappearing in towns, due to modernization and high-rise buildings replacing the old bungalows with large gardens.”
Business
AHK Sri Lanka champions first-ever Sri Lankan delegation at Drupa 2024
The Delegation of German Industry and Commerce in Sri Lanka (AHK Sri Lanka) proudly facilitated the first-ever Sri Lankan delegation’s participation at Drupa 2024, the world’s largest trade fair for the printing industry and technology. Held after an eight-year hiatus, Drupa 2024 was a landmark event, marking significant advancements and opportunities in the global printing industry.
AHK Sri Lanka played a pivotal role in organising and supporting the delegation, which comprised 17 members from the Sri Lanka Association for Printers (SLAP), representing eight companies from the commercial, newspaper, stationery printing, and packaging industries. This pioneering effort by AHK Sri Lanka not only showcased the diverse capabilities of Sri Lanka’s printing sector but also facilitated vital bilateral discussions with key stakeholders from the German printing industry.
Business
Unveiling Ayugiri: Browns Hotels & Resorts sets the stage for a new era in luxury Ayurveda Wellness
In a captivating reimagining of luxury wellness tourism, Browns Hotels & Resorts proudly unveiled the exquisite Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort Sigiriya. This momentous occasion, celebrated amidst a vibrant and serene grand opening on the 6th of June, heralds a new chapter in the Ayurveda wellness tourism landscape in Sri Lanka. Nestled amidst 54 acres of unspoiled natural splendour, Ayugiri features 22 exclusive suites and stands out as the only luxury Ayurveda wellness resort in the country offering plunge pools in every room, rendering it truly one-of-a-kind.
The grand opening of Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort was an enchanting event, where guests were captivated by the melodies of flutists and violinists resonating through Sigiriya’s lush landscapes. As traditional drummers and dancers infused the air with vibrant energy, Browns Hotels & Resorts’ CEO, Eksath Wijeratne, Kotaro Katsuki, Acting Ambassador for the Embassy of Japan and General Manager, Buwaneka Bandara, unveiled the resort’s new logo, marking a significant moment witnessed by distinguished guests from the French Embassy, Ayurveda and wellness enthusiasts along with officials from the Sigiriya area, LOLC Holdings and Browns Group.
“Our strategic expansion into wellness tourism with Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort Sigiriya symbolises a significant milestone for Browns Hotels & Resorts. Wellness tourism has consistently outperformed the overall tourism industry for over a decade, reflecting a growing global interest in travel that goes beyond leisure to offer rejuvenation and holistic well-being. By integrating the timeless wisdom of Ayurveda with modern luxury, we aim to set a new standard in luxury wellness tourism in Sri Lanka. Whether your goal is prevention, healing, or a deeper connection to inner harmony, Ayugiri offers a sanctuary for holistic well-being” stated Eksath Wijeratne.
Ayugiri encapsulates the essence of life, inspired by the lotus flower held by the graceful queens of the infamous Sigiriya frescoes. Just as the lotus emerges from the murky depths, untainted and serene,
Ayugiri invites guests on a journey of purity and rejuvenation, harmonised with a balance of mind, body and spirit, the essence of nature, echoes of culture and the wisdom of ancient Ayurvedic healing.
Business
HNB General Insurance recognized as Best General Bancassurance Provider in Sri Lanka 2024
HNB General Insurance, one of Sri Lanka’s leading general insurance providers, has been honored as the Best General Bancassurance Provider in Sri Lanka 2024 by the prestigious Global Banking and Finance Review – UK.
The esteemed accolade underscores HNB General Insurance’s unwavering commitment to excellence and its outstanding performance in the field of bancassurance. Through dedication and hard work, the HNB General Insurance team has continuously endeavored to deliver innovative insurance solutions, cultivate strong relationships with banking partners, and provide unparalleled service to customers nationwide. This recognition is a testament to the team’s dedication and relentless pursuit of excellence in the bancassurance business.
“We are honored to receive this prestigious award, which reflects our team’s tireless efforts and dedication to delivering value-added insurance solutions and exceptional service through our bancassurance partnerships,” said Sithumina Jayasundara, CEO of HNB General Insurance. “This recognition reaffirms our position as a trusted insurance provider in Sri Lanka and motivates us to continue striving for excellence in serving our customers and communities.”