PickMe yesterday launched Colombo Connect, the first city-wide destination to be introduced under its newly unveiled PickMe Explore platform, a national digital ecosystem designed to connect attractions, experiences, events and communities through a single technology platform.

The initiative was launched at Colombo Lotus Tower, with Governor of the Western Province Hanif Yusoof attending as Chief Guest. Also in attendance were Secretary to the Ministry of Digital Economy Waruna Sri Dhanapala, Chairman of Colombo Lotus Tower Shirantha Peries, travel writer, photojournalist and author Juliet Coombe, along with several other distinguished guests and members of the management teams of PickMe and Colombo Lotus Tower.

A partnership with Colombo Lotus Tower, the first destination to join the Colombo Connect ecosystem, the initiative aims to transform how residents and visitors experience the capital by digitally linking attractions, restaurants, entertainment, retail, culture and mobility into one seamless journey. The company estimates that once fully developed, the ecosystem could generate more than Rs. 30 billion annually in economic activity by encouraging visitors to discover more of Colombo and spend more time in the city.

Speaking at the launch, PickMe Chief Executive Officer Jiffry Zulfer said, “Colombo already has everything it needs to become one of South Asia’s most exciting urban destinations. What has been missing is a platform that brings those experiences together. Today, attractions promote themselves. Restaurants promote themselves. Museums, events and entertainment venues all operate independently. Colombo Connect changes that by helping present the city as one connected destination where every discovery leads to another.”

Alongside Colombo Connect, PickMe announced that PickMe Events, its digital event discovery and ticketing platform, will now operate as PickMe Explore. The new identity reflects an expanded vision that extends beyond events to bring together destinations, attractions, experiences and communities through a single digital platform.

Designed as a national platform, PickMe Explore will bring together destinations, attractions, experiences and communities across Sri Lanka through a single digital interface. Colombo Connect becomes its first city-wide destination, demonstrating how technology can help entire cities become more discoverable while creating greater economic opportunities for local businesses.

Through PickMe Explore, users will be able to discover curated experiences, purchase attraction tickets, access exclusive offers, and explore destinations through one seamless platform.

As the first partner under Colombo Connect, Colombo Lotus Tower becomes the platform’s first digital gateway.

Visitors can now purchase tickets to the tower through PickMe Explore, gain access using QR-enabled entry and begin their Colombo Connect journey from one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks. Initial offerings include admission to the Observation Deck and Pixel Bloom, South Asia’s first immersive and interactive digital art museum, with additional attractions and experiences expected to join the ecosystem over time.

According to PickMe, Colombo Connect has been designed to encourage visitors to spend more time exploring the capital before travelling to other parts of Sri Lanka, creating wider economic benefits across tourism, hospitality, retail, entertainment and transport. Tourism stakeholders have long observed that many international visitors arrive in Colombo only to leave within hours for beach resorts, wildlife destinations or the hill country, limiting the city’s economic potential despite its growing hospitality, entertainment and cultural offerings.

“If visitors spend even one additional day discovering Colombo, the impact extends far beyond tourism,” the CEO said. “Every extra stop supports another restaurant, attraction, retailer, hotel, transport provider or entrepreneur. That is how connected cities create shared economic growth.”

The company estimates that transactions generated across transport, ticketing, hospitality, retail, entertainment and other connected services could exceed Rs. 30 billion annually once the ecosystem reaches maturity.

Today, people’s first interaction with a city is increasingly through their smartphone. They discover places, book experiences, make payments and navigate their journeys digitally. Colombo Connect has been designed around that reality. “Cities increasingly compete through experiences,” Zulfer added. “People no longer discover cities through brochures. They discover them through digital platforms. By connecting mobility, attractions, entertainment, retail and culture through one ecosystem, we can create a richer experience for visitors while helping more businesses benefit from the city’s growth.”

Future phases of Colombo Connect will expand to include museums, cultural institutions, entertainment venues, event organisers, restaurants, nightlife operators, retailers and other tourism partners, creating an increasingly connected urban ecosystem where users can discover experiences, access promotions, purchase tickets, arrange transport and navigate the city through one trusted platform.

As PickMe Explore continues to evolve, the same model is expected to be introduced across destinations throughout Sri Lanka, helping connect travellers with the country’s attractions and experiences through a single digital ecosystem.

“For more than a decade, PickMe has connected people with transport, merchants and digital services,” Zulfer said. “Our next journey is about connecting people with experiences. Colombo Connect is where that journey begins, and through PickMe Explore we hope to build a platform that eventually helps people discover the very best of Sri Lanka.”

PickMe

PickMe is Sri Lanka’s leading mobility and digital services platform, connecting millions of consumers with independent drivers, merchants and businesses through technology. Since its launch in 2015, the platform has evolved beyond ride-hailing to include food delivery, parcel delivery, logistics, digital payments, ticketing and enterprise mobility solutions. Today, PickMe facilitates billions of rupees in transactions each month while supporting thousands of livelihoods and enabling greater convenience, connectivity and economic participation across Sri Lanka.

Colombo Lotus Tower

Standing at 350 metres, Colombo Lotus Tower is South Asia’s tallest self-supported structure and one of Sri Lanka’s most recognisable landmarks. Beyond its telecommunications role, it has evolved into a premier lifestyle, entertainment and tourism destination offering panoramic city views, dining, retail, immersive attractions and event spaces. As the first digital gateway to Colombo Connect, the tower plays a central role in launching PickMe Explore’s vision of creating connected destinations that showcase the very best of Colombo and ultimately, Sri Lanka.

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City of Dreams Sri Lanka marks its first anniversary on 2^nd August 2026, celebrating a milestone that has reshaped Sri Lanka’s tourism, hospitality and lifestyle landscape. The opening of South Asia’s first fully integrated resort represented one of the country’s most significant tourism developments, introducing an entirely new destination concept that seamlessly brings together luxury accommodation, world-class dining, entertainment, retail and lifestyle experiences within a single integrated resort. Following widespread anticipation ahead of its launch, City of Dreams Sri Lanka has established itself as a vibrant destination that continues to enhance Colombo’s appeal for leisure, business and entertainment.

Throughout its first year, City of Dreams Sri Lanka has established itself as one of the country’s leading lifestyle destinations, welcoming local and international guests through an integrated resort experience unlike any other in Sri Lanka. Large-scale MICE events, international conferences, destination weddings, global entertainment performances and landmark celebrations have transformed the destination into a vibrant hub for business, leisure and social occasions. International chef collaborations, signature restaurant experiences and destination dining concepts have further enriched Colombo’s culinary landscape, while international partnerships have strengthened Sri Lanka’s appeal among regional and international travellers, particularly from India.

Kamal Munasinghe, Senior Vice President, Colombo Hotels, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts and General Manager, Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams Sri Lanka, said, “Our first anniversary represents far more than the passing of a year. It marks the beginning of a destination that has introduced an entirely new lifestyle experience to Sri Lanka while welcoming guests, global partnerships and world-class experiences under one roof. Every event, celebration, culinary collaboration and visitor who has walked through our doors has contributed to building something truly distinctive for the country. We are particularly encouraged by the growing interest from international visitors and regional travellers, alongside the increasing number of destination weddings and major events choosing City of Dreams Sri Lanka. As we celebrate this milestone, we remain committed to building on this momentum and creating even more exceptional experiences in the years ahead.”

The anniversary celebrations will commence with 30% off food and beverages across participating specialty restaurants from 1^st to 9^th August, before continuing with anniversary-inspired set menus from 10^th to 16^th August at Staten Bar & Grill, Bistro des Marées, Yoroko and Sapphire Dragon. Curated by each restaurant’s culinary teams, the menus will showcase signature dishes that celebrate the destination’s diverse culinary offering.

Indiya will bring together two of India’s most celebrated culinary destinations, Indian Accent Mumbai and Ekaa, for an exclusive two-day dining experience on August 7th – 8th, 2026. The guest chef experience will see Executive Chef Rijul Gulati of Indian Accent Mumbai and Chef Niyati Rao, Head Chef and Partner of Ekaa, present specially curated vegetarian and non-vegetarian Chef’s Tasting Menus that celebrate India’s rich culinary heritage through bold innovation, exceptional ingredients and refined technique.

The first anniversary celebrations will continue throughout August with a series of specially curated dining experiences and exclusive offerings across City of Dreams Sri Lanka, bringing together distinctive flavours, memorable moments and experiences created to mark this significant milestone.

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Jetwing Hotels announced that 24of their hotels have been recognized by TripAdvisor as 2026 Travellers’ Choice award winners, garnering the highest number of honours for a hotel group in Sri Lanka.

Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Award winners are among the top 10% of listings around the world on Tripadvisor. As the world’s largest travel guidance platform, Tripadvisor has unparalleled authority with travelers and diners. This award is based on genuine feedback from anyone in the community who has visited and left an authentic, first-hand review on Tripadvisor over a 12-month period, making it a valuable and trustworthy designation of travelers’ favorites.

Jetwing Ayurveda Pavilions, Jetwing Beach, Jetwing Blue, Jetwing Colombo Seven, Jetwing Jaffna, Jetwing Kaduruketha, Jetwing Kandy Gallery, Jetwing Lagoon Wellness, Jetwing Lake, Jetwing Lighthouse, Jetwing Jungle Lodge, Jetwing Sea, Jetwing St. Andrew’s, Jetwing Surf & Safari, Jetwing Vil Uyana, Jetwing Yala, Jetwing Saman Villas, Jetwing Kurulubedda, Jetwing Thalahena Villa, Jetwing Warwick Gardens, Jetwing Broomfield Bungalow, Jetwing Oatlands Bungalow, Xavier’s Cottage, have all been recognized for their excellent service by TripAdvisor travellers. In addition, Mermaid Hotel and Club received the coveted Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best award, placing it in the top 1% of listings globally. This distinction highlights the highest-rated destinations, accommodations, and experiences as reviewed by the Tripadvisor community.This award is based on genuine feedback from anyone in the community who has visited and left an authentic, first-hand review on Tripadvisor over a 12-month period, making it a valuable and trustworthy designation of travellers’ favorites.

Dmitri Cooray, Managing Director of Jetwing Hotels, stated, “We are proud to have 24 of our properties recognised in the 2026 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards, with Mermaid Hotel and Club being named ‘Best of the Best.’ This recognition reflects our unwavering focus on delivering heartfelt service and authentic Sri Lankan hospitality. Guest feedback plays a vital role in inspiring our teams and guiding our continuous improvement. I extend my sincere thanks to our teams across the island for their dedication, which remains central to our success as we continue to deliver exceptional guest experiences.”

“Congratulations to Jetwing Hotels on its recognition in Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards for 2026,” said Matt Dacey, Chief Marketing Officer, Tripadvisor. “Ranking among the top percentage of businesses globally means you have made such a memorable impact on your visitors that many of them took time to go online and leave a glowing review about their experience. We hope this recognition continues to drive business to you in 2026 and beyond.”

About Tripadvisor

Tripadvisor, the world’s largest travel guidance platform*, helps millions of people each month** become better travelers, from planning to booking to taking a trip. Travelers across the globe use the Tripadvisor site and app to discover where to stay, what to do and where to eat based on guidance from those who have been there before. With more than 1 billion reviews and contributions, travelers turn to Tripadvisor to find deals on accommodations, book experiences, reserve tables at delicious restaurants and discover great places nearby.

With a legacy spanning over half a century in the tourism industry, Jetwing Hotels has established itself as a pioneer in curating unique experiences and offering the best of legendary Sri Lankan hospitality, with the values of passion, humility, tenacity, and the spirit of family being at its core. As a family-owned brand, Jetwing Hotels continues to be a leading advocate for sustainability and responsible tourism, with ongoing initiatives focused on community upliftment, environmental conservation, and resource efficiency. With over 35 properties across the island, the brand’s diverse portfolio includes a range of Luxury Reserves, Premium Hotels, Select Hotels, and Essentials, each offering a unique perspective on Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.

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A Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion event, comprising a Media Networking Session, a B2B Roadshow, and a Tour Operators Networking Evening, was held in Dhaka, Bangladesh, in April. 

According to the High Commission of Sri Lanka in Dhaka, the event from 05–06 April 2026 was organized by the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) in close collaboration with the High Commission of Sri Lanka in Dhaka, and took place at the Le Méridien Dhaka.

The initiative brought together key stakeholders from the tourism industries of Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, reinforcing strong professional linkages and opening new avenues for enhanced tourism cooperation between the two friendly nations.

The Media Networking Session, held on 05 April 2026, provided a dynamic platform for engagement among print, electronic, and digital media professionals from both countries. The session facilitated meaningful dialogue between media representatives, tourism authorities, and industry stakeholders. The media continues to play a pivotal role in supporting tourism promotion efforts, advancing responsible and sustainable tourism practices, and highlighting emerging business and investment opportunities within the tourism sectors of Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, the High Commission of Sri Lanka in Dhaka, said in a statement.

The B2B Roadshow and Tour Operators Networking Evening, held on 06 April 2026, brought together leading tour operators, travel agents, and key industry stakeholders from both countries in an engaging and collaborative setting. The event provided a platform to further strengthen strategic partnerships, promote joint tourism initiatives, and encourage sustained B2B engagement, with the aim of significantly enhancing two-way tourist flows between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.

The High Commission noted that tour operators and travel agents play a vital role as the essential bridge between destinations and travelers. They shape destination perceptions, curate attractive travel experiences, and ensure seamless travel facilitation. Their expertise enables the promotion of diverse tourism segments, including leisure travel, MICE tourism, wellness tourism, cultural tourism, and emerging health tourism opportunities. In addition, they play a key role in facilitating group travel, corporate exchanges, and business-related visits, thereby contributing to broader economic and tourism linkages.

Sri Lanka and Bangladesh share long-standing cordial relations, grounded in common cultural values, historical ties, and expanding economic cooperation. Tourism has emerged as a vibrant and strategic sector, further strengthening these ties by bringing the people of both countries closer while generating mutual economic benefits.

Sri Lanka is increasingly recognized as a preferred destination among Bangladeshi travellers for both leisure and business purposes, and has become one of the important source markets for Sri Lanka’s tourism industry. In 2025, over 59,000 Bangladeshi visitors travelled to Sri Lanka, reflecting the country’s strong reputation as a welcoming, safe, and attractive destination, the statement said.

The High Commission of Sri Lanka went on to note that, nevertheless, significant untapped potential remains to further expand two-way tourism flows between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. With enhanced air connectivity, improved accessibility, and strengthened collaboration among tourism stakeholders, new opportunities can be unlocked not only in tourism but also in trade, investment, and broader economic cooperation between the two countries.

The Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, SriLankan Airlines, FitsAir, along with tour operators and travel agents from both Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, as well as the Tour Operators Association of Bangladesh (TOAB) and the Bangladesh Outbound Tour Operators Association (BOTOA), participated in this landmark tourism promotional event in Dhaka as key industry partners and stakeholders. (Newswire)

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‘Welcome to Sri Lanka’, the travel documentary produced by Mark Julian Edwards, won the prestigious ‘Television Broadcast of the Year’ award at the Inspire Global Media Awards 2026, contested by the BBC and Amazon TV. 

According to Sri Lanka Tourism, Sri Lanka’s storytelling excellence took centre stage at the ceremony held recently in London, United Kingdom, with a packed room of media glitterati. 

The documentary was selected from a competitive international field of entries, with judges highlighting its focus on the depiction of authentic human experiences and destination narratives. 

“This whole episode of shooting and filming in Sri Lanka, I would say it was a concophony of incredible people with fascinating stories to tell. The fascinating wildlife, culture, heritage, the fabulous food using ancient, medicinally beneficial recipes passed down through generations, and the landscapes and traditions were a joy to watch. Above all, it’s the warm, kind nature of the hospitable Sri Lankans that truly left an everlasting impression,” Mark Julian Edwards said, commenting on the win. 

Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau hosted Mark Julian Edwards as a member of the British Guild’s Media FAM Tour to Sri Lanka last year with 33 other media. The Off the Beaten Path Press Trip took the media journalists to extraordinary life-changing places and authentic local experiences around Sri Lanka. The film was produced based on his experience across Sri Lanka during the FAM tour, featuring cultural traditions, wildlife, nature, food, authentic arts, crafts, lifestyle and community-based experiences.

Sri Lanka Tourism states that this victory is a testament to how compelling storytelling can breathe life into destinations showcasing powerful, authentic human experiences. The award-winning film shines a global spotlight on Sri Lanka, beautifully capturing its extraordinary people, rich cultural traditions, breathtaking beauty, diversity, and unforgettable moments of genuine connections. 

Through Mark’s lens, the world is invited to experience Sri Lanka not just as a destination, but as a living, breathing story filled with warmth, wonder, and exciting discovery. This win will be a prestigious endorsement for Sri Lanka to position itself as a unique and memorable destination on the world tourism map, Sri Lanka Tourism added in a statement. (Newswire)

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The tranquil hill capital of Kandy is currently abuzz with cinematic energy, playing host to one of Indian cinema’s most renowned names, Ram Charan. The acclaimed actor is in the city for a major film production, representing a significant collaboration between Indian and Sri Lankan film crews.

For the duration of their stay, Ram Charan, his staff, and key production members had chosen The Grand Kandyan hotel as their official residence. Known for its luxurious accoutrements and prime location, the hotel was determined to offer the very best of traditional hospitality.

Ram Charan was accorded a majestic welcome that seamlessly blended grand gestures with deep-rooted local tradition. A vibrant display of traditional Kandyan dancers greeted the actor stepping onto the red carpet, immersing him in the culture of the region. The reception culminated in the symbolic lighting of the oil lamp, a gesture signifying prosperity and success for the production.

Leading the delegation from The Grand Kandyan who personally welcomed the star were Mr. Thusith Samarweera (Group General Manager), Mr. Nazeem Amit (Assistant General Manager), and Ms. Wathsala Asmadale (Manageress-Front Office / Sales & Reservations).

The management’s goal was to offer the actor and his crew the famous Sri Lankan Kandyan way of hospitality a service philosophy focused on genuine warmth, impeccable detail, and absolute discretion. This commitment ensures the crew can focus entirely on their demanding filming schedule.

Ram Charan’s presence in Kandy is a powerful endorsement of Sri Lanka as a world-class filming destination. This international production is not just about making a movie; it is about building a cinematic bridge, fostering invaluable professional exchange, and showcasing the unparalleled beauty and welcoming spirit of the Hill Capital to a global audience. The Grand Kandyan, acting as the production’s luxurious base, has truly rolled out the red carpet for this momentous collaboration.

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Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, has appointed Mr. Hishan Singhawansa as its new Chief Executive Officer, unveiling the vision to strengthen the brand’s role as one of the largest contributors to Sri Lanka’s tourism sector and position the country’s standing as a global destination. With 17 years at John Keells Group (JKH), Singhawansa takes on the role at a pivotal moment, as Sri Lanka’s tourism rebounds beyond pre-pandemic levels.

“Sri Lanka has the assets to be one of the most desired destinations in the world. What we need now is scale, innovation, and consistency. Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts is at the forefront of showcasing this potential, offering luxury, lifestyle, and authentic experiences that appeal to travellers globally. We harness technology and innovation to deliver seamless, personalised guest experiences, while ensuring sustainability and inclusivity remain at the heart of our growth,” said Singhawansa. “Our resorts in the Maldives further embody this vision, championing international standards, sustainability, and experiential travel.”

The chain’s recently launched Cinnamon Life is a landmark US$1.2 billion integrated resort in Colombo, and the largest development of its kind in South Asia. With 687 rooms, over 160,000 sq. ft. of MICE facilities for up to 5,000 guests, and a mix of residences, retail, dining, and entertainment, Cinnamon Life is expected to create 20,000 jobs and firmly establish Colombo as a regional MICE powerhouse among Singapore, Bangkok, and Dubai

Beyond infrastructure, Cinnamon is investing in fostering talent through the Cinnamon Hospitality Academy, aiming to increase women’s participation in hospitality to at least 24% by 2025, and initiatives such as EmpowHer, which createsafer, more inclusive workplaces. Meanwhile, Cinnamon Nature Trails, the brand’s wildlife and experiential tourism arm, continues to act as the country’s destination experts, offering authentic, conservation-led journeys that align with global travel trends.

“Tourism is about economic transformation and community empowerment,” added Singhawansa. “Our priority is to become a catalyst for change, delivering world-class experiences, and ensuring tourism uplifts the communities we serve.”

As the only Sri Lankan brand to be part of the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts connects with over 30 million members worldwide through its loyalty programme, Cinnamon Discovery. Combined with a portfolio of 17 hotels and resorts across Sri Lanka and the Maldives, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts is uniquely positioned to play a central role in shaping Sri Lanka’s tourism recovery and future growth bringing together authenticity, innovation, and scale to strengthen both Sri Lanka’s and the Maldives’ profile as leading global destinations.

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Sri Lanka Tourism has assured that the highest levels of safety and security will be maintained for all visitors throughout their stay in Sri Lanka.

Issuing a statement, Sri Lanka Tourism extended a warm invitation to travellers from around the world to visit the country during the upcoming tourist season. 

“We ensure that all tourists can enjoy a safe and secure experience while exploring the beauty of our island. The highest levels of safety and security will be maintained for all visitors throughout their stay in Sri Lanka,” it said.

Sri Lanka Tourism further said that the Ministry of Defense has also assured that necessary measures have been taken to guarantee the safety of tourists across all areas of the country, ensuring peace of mind for those currently staying in Sri Lanka and for those planning their visits.

The assurance comes in the backdrop of several countries issuing travel advisories to Sri Lanka, citing terrorism threats.

The US Embassy had initially issued the travel advisory to its citizens, stating that it had received credible information warning of an attack targeting popular tourist locations in the Arugam Bay area.

Issuing a clarification on the travel advisory, Police Spokesman Nihal Thalduwa said that the surge in Israeli tourists and the occupation of a building in the Arugam Bay area has prompted the US Embassy in Colombo to issue an advisory. 

DIG Thalduwa has confirmed that special security measures are currently in place in Arugam Bay, with the involvement of the Police, Special Task Force (STF), Navy, Army, and State Intelligence Services (SIS). (Newswire)

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Sri Lanka Tourism marked another milestone in its promotional activities through hosting the official book launch of ‘An Island’s Eleven’ – a book written by British sports media journalist Nicholas Brookes, as a result of his thorough research of Sri Lanka Cricket.

The book has won prestigious ‘Cricket Society and MCC Book of the Year award for 2023, out of the six shortlisted nominations for the award. It was followed by another accolade a few days later, winning the ‘Wisden Book of the year’’ by the world famous Wisden Cricketers Almanac.

The launch ceremony was held on the 2nd of May 2023 at the picturesque Mt. Lavinia Hotel, overlooking the endless ocean.  It was held under the patronage of H.E Sarah Hulton, British High Commissioner to Sri Lanka as the Chief Guest, H.E Michael Appleton, High Commissioner for New Zealand in Sri Lanka as the Guest of Honor  Mr.Arjuna Ranatunga, former cricket captain, administrator and MP, Mr.Chalaka Gajabahu – Chairman, Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, including the author himself graced the head table among the distinguished audience of Cricketing Legends, Cricket Commentators, Diplomats, Travel Agents, Hoteliers and Tourism Associations and Tourism officials.

Being a UK national, Nicholas is another cricket enthusiast, writer and an analyst who falls into the category of those who were fascinated by the island destination and its cricket alike, such as Tony Greig, Harsha Bhogle and several others. The main purpose of this event was to promote the publication and also launch the book in Sri Lanka for the first time. 

Beginning the launch, Mr . Chalaka Gajabahu, Chairman SLTPB, welcomed the guests by describing the reputation Sri Lanka has received as a Cricket loving nation and the respect and love its inhabitants have for foreign cricketers and analysts. He further mentioned that this initiative taken by Sri Lanka Tourism will be a very fruitful effort in the long run.  

In his speech, Mr. Brookes explained how he got the initiative to write the book by doing thorough research on the Sri Lankan cricket history at the Library at Lord’s, and his first visit to the island in 2017 convinced him it was a project well worth the effort. All those whom he met in Sri Lanka had a story to tell, and he further learnt the true meaning of Sri Lankan hospitality. He also mentioned cricket legends such as Michael Tissera who had done a yeoman service for his country. During his stay in Sri Lanka Nicholas was able to learn a lot about the Sri Lankan culture and also taught at St. Thomas’s College, Mt. Lavinia for a short period. His notable remark was that Sri Lanka is cricket and Cricket is Sri Lanka, and there is no other nation in the world where cricket is almost the second religion, due to its immense popularity among the locals. 

Afterwards, several copies of his books were handed over to the distinguished guests including the Chief Guest H.E. Sarah Hulton (British High Commissioner), H.E. Michael Appleton (New Zealand High Commissioner) and all the cricket legends who were present at the venue. H.E Michel Appleton, High Commissioner for New Zealand in Sri Lanka also made a short but informative expression on the book, and Sri Lanka cricket in general. He stressed that Sri Lanka’s moment of glory was winning the 1996 world cup, which brought down all the cricketing giants such as England, Australia and India. The book is all about a little nation winning over the big countries. He recalled how Sri Lanka won its first overseas test match in 1995, what he expressed as reasons for Sri Lanka’s victory were persistence and, innovation. He said that innovation was crucial when being underdogs of Cricket, and coming up as a small nation. He also commended the friendliness of the Sri Lankans which were not seen in many countries. The national pride which Sri Lankans have for their country was also mentioned, and if anyone needs to go to a country in South Asia where cricket is the national sport, it’s Sri Lanka. He further reiterated the cricket enthusiasm of Sri Lankans coming to watch the Australia-Sri Lanka match series, coming together to cheer for their team even when the country was going through a turbulent time. Mentioning all these facts, he expressed the value of this book for those who are interested in Sri Lankan cricket history and wished all success.

The event was made more colourful with a performance by a traditional dance troupe, and tokens of appreciation were handed over to each of the guests also especially to Nicholas Brookes, the author, by the Chairman of SLTPB, Mr. Chalaka Gajabahu in order to appreciate his effort and contribution. A special token of appreciation was handed over to Mr. Arjuna Ranatunga for his leadership and effort in winning the 1996 world cup and showcasing true leadership. It was a moment where all cricket lovers and cricket legends got together to reminiscence on the good times, meeting legendary commentators including Mr. Ranjith Fernando, Mr. Michael Tissera, Mr. Premasara Epasinghe and cricketing giants like Mr.Brandon Kuruppu, Mr. Michael Thesera, Mr.Mevan Peiris, Mr. Mano Ponniah, Mr.Lionel Gunasekara, Mr. LR Goonethilleke, Mr. LCR Wijesinghe and Ms.Yajna Tyagarajah- daughter of legendary cricketer/batsman, Mr.Sathasivam and Ms. Apsari Thilakarathne were among the distinguish attendees to the event. 

Sri Lanka Tourism’s initiative of hosting such events will not only further strengthen the bilateral ties between the two nations, but also from a Tourism angle, this is considered a great opportunity to market the destination to sport-based travellers, especially cricket lovers in the UK who will be further encouraged to visit Sri Lanka with the hype that has been created by this book and take Sri Lanka Cricket fraternity towards a new dimension. 

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