SHOCKING: Is Dialog Playing Games with Sri Lankan Cricket Fans? The T20 World Cup Coverage Scandal Exposed!
As the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 kicks off, a massive controversy is brewing behind the scenes that should have every Sri Lankan cricket fan fuming. While our Lions fought hard to secure a 20-run victory against Ireland on February 8th, many fans across the island were left in the dark—literally. The reason? A calculated, “financial-first” gamble by Dialog Axiata PLC that has left nationwide free-to-air (FTA) coverage in shambles. The “Supreme” Failure: Too Little, Too Late In a move that reeks of corporate greed over public service, Dialog—the exclusive rights holder for 2026–2028 handpicked TV Supreme as its FTA partner. The problem? Supreme TV reportedly lacks the infrastructure to reach every corner of Sri Lanka. Even more shocking, despite the tournament being currently underway, leaked documents reveal that TV Supreme only formally moved to expand transmission by renting airtime on Vasantham TV on February 8th—the very day Sri Lanka played its first match! The “Vasantham” Bailout: Supreme Rents Airtime to Save Face The most damning revelation is the desperate move by TV Supreme to “acquire airtime” on Vasantham TV. Why? Because they simply cannot deliver the “nationwide coverage” Dialog promised the ICC. Despite boasting about “unprecedented scale” in January, TV Supreme has been forced to rent space on Vasantham TV’s frequencies just to keep the signal alive in critical areas. The Admission of Failure:Dialog explicitly admitted there is a “direct coverage impact” because of “existing CSN transmission limitations”. They knew the coverage was broken, yet this fix was only finalized as the World Cup was already happening. The Reality Check:Why was this “acquisition of airtime” by TV Supreme only formally set out on February 8th, after the tournament had already started? The “Limited” Solution:This isn’t a gift to fans. The arrangement is “strictly limited” to specific stations—Kokavil, Colombo, Madolsima, and Jaffna—and expires the moment the cup is over on March 9th. They aren’t investing in Sri Lankan fans; they are just doing the bare minimum to avoid an ICC penalty. Clock is Ticking: Two Days to the Next Match Sri Lanka’s next clash is against Oman on February 12th in Kandy. We are just two days away, and the “nationwide” coverage is still being patched together like a leaking roof in a monsoon. Crucial Match Missed:How many fans in rural areas missed the thrilling performances of Hasaranga and Theekshana against Ireland because of these “transmission limitations”? Upcoming High-Stakes Games:With a massive clash against Australia looming on February 16th, can we trust this last-minute scramble? Where is the Accountability? One has to ask: What is Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) doing? As a co-host of this World Cup, SLC has a moral obligation to ensure every citizen can watch the national team for free. Did the ICC know that Dialog was sub-licensing to an operator that couldn’t actually reach the fans? While Dialog hides behind “contractual obligations” and “reach assumptions,” the fans are being squeezed. If you can’t get the shaky FTA signal, Dialog is happy to sell you a subscription on their apps or website—proving that for them, this World Cup isn’t about “Powering the Passion of the Nation,” it’s about powering their bottom line. Even on their apps and website, streaming viewers are forced to pay. The Verdict:This is a slap in the face to the Sri Lankan cricket fan. To wait until the tournament starts to fix a known coverage crisis is not just a “mistake”—it’s a betrayal of the rights of the viewers.
The Sudden Loss of a National Hero: Lieutenant Koyan Chamitha
The Sri Lankan nation and its military community are in mourning following the sudden passing of Lieutenant Koyan Chamitha, a trailblazing officer of the Sri Lanka Navy’s elite Special Boat Squadron (SBS).Lieutenant Chamitha, aged 28, was discovered dead in the early hours of Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at the naval quarters in the Welisara Navy Camp. He was in Colombo at the time to prepare for the upcoming Independence Day parade. A Historic AchievementLieutenant Chamitha etched his name in military history last year by becoming the first Sri Lankan to successfully complete the grueling U.S. Navy SEAL basic training.
5 Secret ‘Untrending’ Spots in Sri Lanka Every ‘Glowmad’ Needs to Visit in 2026
Are you suffering from “Decision Fatigue”? You aren’t alone. As we move through 2026, the global travel shift has moved from “see everything” to “feel everything.” While the crowds battle for a selfie at Nine Arches Bridge, a new wave of Glowmads—travelers seeking healing and deep focus—are heading North and East. If you’re looking for a Decision Detox, these five hidden gems offer the perfect blend of high-speed 5G connectivity and low-speed soul searching. 1. The Knuckles “Cloud Forest” Retreat Forget the hustle of Kandy. The Knuckles Mountain Range has become the ultimate Altitude Shift destination. 2026 has seen a surge in “Biohacking Retreats” here, where the thin air and organic estate teas are used for sleep optimization and mental clarity. 2. Delft Island’s Wild Horse Sanctuary Jaffna is no longer just a “side trip.” Delft Island offers a rugged, Mediterranean vibe that is peak Untrending. With its coral walls and wild horses, it’s the anti-Instagrammer’s paradise. 3. Batticaloa’s “Singing Fish” Lagoons While Weligama handles the surf crowds, Batti is winning over the Digital Nomads who want silence. The co-living spaces here are built into eco-mangroves, offering a “Decision-Free” lifestyle where meals and kayak tours are handled for you. 4. The Re-opened Ambewela Railway Path Since the Udarata Menike resumed its full route to Ambewela late last year, the “New Zealand of Sri Lanka” has become the go-to for Nostalgic Remix content. Think ’70s aesthetic, misty meadows, and fresh dairy. 5. Nilaveli’s Regenerative Reefs Marine conservation is the baseline for 2026. Nilaveli isn’t just for snorkeling anymore; it’s a hub for Regenerative Tourism. You can join local NGOs in coral gardening before heading to a “Low-alc” sunset beach bar.
My Top 10 Must-Visit Places in Kotmale: A Local’s Guide to the Hidden Valley
5. Crossing the Kothmale Hanging Bridge If you aren’t afraid of heights, I highly recommend walking across the Sangili Palama. It’s a traditional wooden suspension bridge that sways just enough to make your heart race as you look down at the Mahaweli River. It’s the best way to see the riverside tea patches up close. 6. Ranamune Raja Pihilla I love the legends that surround this place. Local history tells us that Prince Dutugemunu lived here as a commoner before becoming king. You can still see the ancient stone water spout where he supposedly bathed. It’s a quiet, green sanctuary that feels virtually untouched by time. 7. Pusulpitiya Rajamaha Viharaya When I want to connect with Sri Lanka’s royal heritage, I come here. This temple once served as a secret vault for the Sacred Tooth Relic during times of war. The atmosphere is heavy with history, and the ancient wood carvings are some of the finest I’ve seen. 8. The 360-Degree View from Peacock Hill I tell every hiker I meet to skip the crowded peaks and head to Monaragala Kanda (Peacock Hill). The climb isn’t too grueling, and the reward is a full 360-degree view of the Gampola and Kotmale valleys. On a clear morning, the sight of the reservoir shimmering below is breathtaking. 9. Viewing Devon & St. Clair’s Falls While most people view these from the main road, I prefer the vantage points from the higher Kotmale ridges. Looking across the valley at St. Clair’s—often called our “Little Niagara”—you really get a sense of the scale of our central highlands. 10. Dehadu Kadulla: The Historic Gateway For my fellow history buffs, Dehadu Kadulla is a must. This ancient mountain pass was the gateway between the hill country and the southern plains. Standing here, you can imagine the ancient armies and messengers who once used this very path to navigate the island. My Personal Travel Tips (Updated 2026)
Sleeping in Paradise: The Definitive Guide to Sri Lanka’s Best Hotels & Arrival Logistics (2026)
Best luxury hotels Sri Lanka. To sleep in Sri Lanka is to wake up inside a story. In the Cultural Triangle, you might rouse to the sound of grey langur monkeys chattering on your balcony, the jungle steaming in the dawn light. On the south coast, the Indian Ocean acts as your alarm clock, its rhythmic crash against the granite ramparts of a 17th-century Dutch fort signalling a new day. In the tea country, the mornings are silent, wrapped in a veil of mist that lifts to reveal emerald valleys stretching endlessly toward the horizon. Finding a place to stay here is not just about booking a room; it is about choosing the lens through which you will view this island. Whether you are seeking the colonial grandeur of the coast or the eco-conscious luxury of the deep jungle, this is your curated guide to Sri Lanka’s finest accommodations—and the logistical secrets to beginning your journey flawlessly. The Arrival Dilemma: Colombo or Negombo? This is the first question every traveller faces, and getting it wrong can ruin your first 24 hours. The Reality: Sri Lanka’s main airport, Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), is not actually in Colombo. It is located in Katunayake, roughly 35 kilometers (22 miles) north of the capital. Scenario A: The Late Night Arrival (Land after 4:00 PM) Verdict: Stay in Negombo. If you land in the evening, do not drag yourself into Colombo traffic. Head to Negombo, a gritty but charming fishing town just minutes from the airport. It offers a soft landing with wide, golden beaches and a lively strip of restaurants. Scenario B: The City Slicker (Land before 2:00 PM) Verdict: Head to Colombo. If you land early and crave energy, history, and shopping, go to Colombo. It is a city of contrast, where chrome skyscrapers rise next to British colonial clubs. Scenario C: The “Time is Money” Traveller Verdict: Go Straight to the Interior. If you land at 6:00 AM, hire a driver and head straight to Sigiriya (4 hours) or Kandy (3.5 hours). You will be sipping tea by the pool before sunset, having saved a full day of travel. The Logistics: Escaping the Airport The moment you step out of the arrivals terminal, you will be greeted by a humid wall of tropical air and a crowd of taxi touts. Ignore the touts. Here is how to travel safely and without being scammed. 1. The “Peace of Mind” Option: Official Airport Taxi Counter Inside the arrivals hall (before the exit), there is a long desk labeled “Airport Taxi.” 2. The Tech-Savvy Option: PickMe or Uber Sri Lanka has its own ride-hailing app called PickMe (available on iOS/Android). Uber also works in Colombo and major cities. 3. The Fraud Warning Never get into a vehicle with a random person who approaches you saying, “Taxi? Taxi?” They will overcharge you or take you to their friend’s hotel. A Collection of Luxury Hotels in Sri Lanka: Where to Stay I have selected these best luxury hotels Sri Lanka not just for their thread count, but for their sense of place. 1. The Living Legend: Galle Face Hotel (Colombo) “The Oldest Hotel East of Suez” Walking into the Galle Face Hotel is like stepping onto a movie set from the 1920s. Established in 1864, it has hosted everyone from Che Guevara to Harrison Ford. The checkerboard marble floor, the heavy teak furniture, and the breeze rolling off the Indian Ocean create an atmosphere of timeless elegance. 2. The Eco-Masterpiece: Heritance Kandalama (Dambulla/Sigiriya) “The Hotel That Disappears” Designed by Sri Lanka’s legendary architect Geoffrey Bawa, this luxury hotel does not sit on the landscape; it is part of it. Built into a rock face overlooking the Kandalama tank (reservoir), the hotel is covered in vines and greenery, making it nearly invisible from a distance. 3. The Icon of the Hills: 98 Acres Resort & Spa (Ella) “A Nest in the Clouds” Perched on a 98-acre tea estate, this resort is the reason Ella went viral. The chalets are built from discarded railway sleepers and thatch, standing on stilts above the tea bushes. 4. The Safari Camp: Wild Coast Tented Lodge (Yala) “Where the Jungle Meets the Ocean” This is not camping; this is architecture. The “cocoons” (luxury tents) are designed to look like boulders scattered across the landscape, mimicking the massive rocks of the Yala coastline. 5. The Colonial Fortress: Amangalla (Galle Fort) “The Grand Dame of the South” Located inside the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, Amangalla is a sanctuary of silence in a bustling town. Formerly the New Oriental Hotel, it retains its 17th-century Dutch bones with polished antique floors, high ceilings, and crisp white linen. Final Advice for the Discerning Traveller Sri Lanka is currently experiencing a tourism boom. The “hidden gems” are getting discovered. My advice? Book early. Whether you choose the vine-covered corridors of Kandalama or the sea-sprayed ramparts of Galle, remember this: in Sri Lanka, the hotel is not just a place to sleep. It is the destination itself.
A-Bay Calling: The Ultimate Guide to Sri Lanka’s Surfer Paradise (2026)
The road to the East Coast is long, but the reward is legendary. While the south coast of Sri Lanka is buzzing with hip cafes and Instagrammers, Arugam Bay (or simply “A-Bay” to the locals) moves to a different rhythm. It is raw, it is dusty, and it is undeniably cool. Here, the day is measured not in hours, but in swell forecasts. You wake up to the sound of peacocks, surf until your arms burn, eat spicy roti for lunch, and dance barefoot in the sand by midnight. Whether you are a pro surfer chasing the perfect right-hand point break or a traveler looking to spot wild elephants without the crowds, this is your 2026 guide to Arugam Bay. When to Go: The Surf Season Explained Arugam Bay surf season 2026:Sri Lanka has two monsoons, meaning the island is always in season somewhere. For Arugam Bay, timing is everything. The Surf Check: Where to Paddle Out A-Bay is famous for its point breaks—long, peeling waves that break over sand or reef-covered rock. 1. Main Point (The Legend) 2. Whiskey Point (The Party Wave) 3. Peanut Farm (The Hidden Gem) 4. Baby Point (The Nursery) Beyond the Board: Things to Do (For Non-Surfers) Arugam Bay isn’t just for surfers. It’s actually one of the wildest corners of Sri Lanka. 1. Safari in Kumana National Park Forget Yala and its traffic jams. Kumana National Park (often called Yala East) is just 45 minutes south. It is famous for its birdlife, but you have a very high chance of seeing leopards and bears here with zero other jeeps around. 2. Sunset at Elephant Rock This is the daily ritual. Grab a King Coconut, climb the rock at the southern end of the bay, and watch the sun dip behind the jungle. 3. Lagoon Safari in Pottuvil For a slower pace, take a traditional catamaran ride through the mangroves of Pottuvil Lagoon. You will see crocodiles sunbathing, eagles fishing, and monkeys jumping between trees. It’s pure magic at sunrise (6:00 AM). How to Get to Arugam Bay (2026 Transport Guide) This is the hardest part. A-Bay is located roughly 320km from Colombo. 1. The “Flashpacker” Route (Taxi) 2. The Scenic Route (Train + Taxi) 3. The Budget Soldier (Night Bus) Eat, Sleep, Repeat Final Local Tip Bring cash. While more places accept cards in 2026, the ATM in Arugam Bay is notorious for running out of money during long weekends. Stock up in a bigger town like Monaragala or Pottuvil before you arrive.
The Lion Rock: A Complete Guide to Conquering Sigiriya (2026 Edition)
Sigiriya Lion Rock:It rises out of the central plains of Sri Lanka like a stone titan—a massive column of orange rock topped with the ruins of a tragic king’s palace. You’ve seen the photos. You’ve seen the drone shots on Instagram. But let me tell you, as someone who has climbed these 1,200 steps more times than I can count, nothing prepares you for the feeling of standing at the Lion’s Paws, looking up at a fortress built 1,500 years ago. Sigiriya (The Lion Rock) is not just a tourist attraction; it is the heart of Sri Lanka’s “Cultural Triangle.” It is an engineering marvel, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the setting for one of history’s most dramatic royal feuds. If you are planning a trip to Sri Lanka in 2026, this is the only guide you need. From the dark history of King Kashyapa to the practical logistics of how to get there from the airport, here is everything you need to know. The Story: A King, A Murder, and A Palace in the Sky Before you climb, you must know why this rock exists. Without the story, it’s just a workout with a view. In the late 5th Century (477–495 AD), Prince Kashyapa did the unthinkable: he walled his father, King Dhatusena, up alive to steal the throne. Fearing revenge from his brother Moggallana (the rightful heir), Kashyapa fled the capital of Anuradhapura. He needed a fortress that was impossible to attack. He found Sigiriya. For 18 years, Kashyapa turned this massive rock into a palace of pleasure and protection. He built swimming pools on the summit, painted the rock face with beautiful frescoes, and constructed a massive lion gate to guard the entrance. Eventually, his brother returned with an army. Legend says Kashyapa’s elephant bucked during the battle, and his troops, thinking he was retreating, fled. Too proud to surrender, Kashyapa cut his own throat. The palace was abandoned and swallowed by the jungle for centuries. When you climb, you are walking in the footsteps of a king who had everything, but lost it all. The Climb: What to Expect The Stats: Height: 200 meters (660 feet) Steps: ~1,200 Time to climb: 45 minutes to 1 hour (one way) Difficulty: Moderate. It is steep, but there are handrails and sturdy metal stairs. Phase 1: The Water Gardens Before the ascent, you walk through the landscaped Royal Gardens. These are some of the oldest landscaped gardens in the world, featuring hydraulic systems that still work during the rainy season. It’s a flat, peaceful walk that builds anticipation as the rock looms larger ahead. Phase 2: The Frescoes and Mirror Wall About halfway up, you’ll ascend a spiral staircase to a sheltered pocket in the rock. Here, you’ll find the Sigiriya Frescoes—ancient paintings of celestial maidens (Apsaras). The colors are still vibrant after 1,500 years. Photography Rule: STRICTLY NO PHOTOS allowed in the fresco cave. The flash damages the pigment. Guards are watching! Next is the Mirror Wall. Once polished so highly that the King could see his reflection, it is now covered in ancient graffiti left by visitors between the 6th and 14th centuries. Phase 3: The Lion’s Paws This is the main plateau before the final summit push. Two massive stone paws flank the staircase. Originally, a giant brick lion head swallowed the stairs, but it collapsed centuries ago. Take a break here, drink some water, and prepare for the final, steep ascent. Phase 4: The Summit The top is flat and surprisingly large (1.6 hectares). You’ll see the foundations of the Royal Palace and the Sky Pool. The view is 360 degrees of emerald jungle, distant misty mountains, and the white statue of the Buddha at the nearby Pidurangala temple. Practical Guide: Planning Your Visit (2026 Updated) Sigiriya Lion Rock Entrance Fees (2026) As of early 2026, the ticket prices have been updated. Foreign Adults (Non-SAARC): $35 USD Foreign Children (6-12 years): $20 USD SAARC Nationals: $20 USD (Must show passport) Locals: ~200 LKR Payment Tip: The ticket office accepts credit cards, but the machines often have connectivity issues due to the remote location. Always bring cash (USD or LKR) to be safe. Opening Hours Open: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM Ticket Counter Closes: 5:00 PM Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka is hot. The rock heats up like a frying pan by noon. Option A (The Best): Be at the gate at 7:00 AM sharp. You will beat the tour bus crowds and the heat. Option B: Go at 3:30 PM. You will catch the golden hour light for photos and watch the sunset from the top. How to Get to Sigiriya Sigiriya is located in the Matale District, right in the center of the island. Most travelers base themselves in Sigiriya town, Dambulla (30 mins away), or Habarana (25 mins away). From Colombo International Airport (BIA) 1. The Fast & Comfortable Way (Taxi/Private Transfer) Time: 3.5 – 4 hours Cost: $70 – $100 USD (one way) This is the best option after a long flight. You can book an Uber/PickMe from the airport or arrange a private driver beforehand (recommended). 2. The Budget Adventure (Bus) Time: 6 – 7 hours Cost: Less than $8 USD total Route: Take the shuttle bus or tuk-tuk from the Airport to the Averiwatta Bus Stand (just outside the airport). Catch the #187 Bus to Colombo Fort (Main Station). From Colombo Fort, take Bus #48 (Kaduruwela) or #49 (Trinco). Get off at Dambulla or Habarana. Take a tuk-tuk the final 15km to Sigiriya (~1,500 – 2,000 LKR). 3. The Scenic Route (Train) Time: 5 – 6 hours + transfer Cost: ~$10 – $20 USD (Reserved seats) There is no train station in Sigiriya. You must take the train from Colombo Fort to Habarana. From Habarana station, it is a 20-minute tuk-tuk ride to Sigiriya. Note: Trains are slower than taxis but offer beautiful views of the countryside. Essential Travel Tips for Sigiriya Water is Life: There are
Sri Lanka’s Grade 6 English Module Controversy Deepens: CID Probe Launched into ‘Inappropriate Link’
buddy net controversy in grade 6 module Colombo, Sri Lanka – December 31, 2025 – The controversy surrounding an inappropriate web link (buddy net) discovered in a newly introduced Grade 6 module of English language has escalated dramatically, with the Ministry of Education formally lodging a complaint with the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) today. This move signals a deeper probe into what top officials suspect might be more than just a technical error, hinting at a potential conspiracy to undermine the government’s ambitious education reforms. Immediate Suspension and Alarming Discovery The incident, which sent ripples of concern across the nation’s educational landscape, came to light after social activist Thilini Shalwin drew attention to a glaring error. It was revealed that a typing mistake, replicated in three separate instances within the new Grade 6 syllabus, redirected users not to the intended educational application, but instead to “Buddy.net,” a social networking platform primarily designed for gay men. Upon receiving the complaint, the Ministry of Education acted swiftly. A preliminary internal review confirmed the presence of the unsuitable content, prompting the immediate suspension of the distribution of all affected printed modules.Secretary to the Ministry of Education Nalaka Kaluwewa confirmed that the module, prepared by the National Institute of Education (NIE), had already been printed and was in the process of distribution when the alarming error was detected. Conspiracy Theories Emerge as CID Takes Over The decision to involve the CID, officially announced on December 31st, underscores the severity with which the Ministry is treating the matter. Secretary Kaluwewa, in a statement to the media following the submission of the complaint, emphasized that the investigation aims to determine whether the inclusion of the inappropriate link was a mere oversight or a deliberate act. Expressing strong suspicions, Kaluwewa suggested that the incident might be part of a calculated effort to discredit the government’s ongoing education reform initiatives. He noted that various parties have previously leveled unsubstantiated accusations against these reforms, and it is crucial to investigate whether a disruptive group intentionally planted the link to lend credence to such claims.“Such an occurrence should never happen within a school curriculum,” Kaluwewa asserted, highlighting the Ministry’s commitment to transparency and accountability. The Broader Context: Sri Lanka’s Sweeping Education Reforms This controversy unfolds against a backdrop of significant educational transformation in Sri Lanka. The government is in the process of implementing a comprehensive module-based and credit-based learning system, set to be introduced for Grades 1 and 6 starting in 2026.These reforms aim to shift the focus from rote learning and examination outcomes to a more interactive, skill-oriented model, incorporating continuous assessments and diverse learning activities. While broadly supported for their progressive vision, the reforms have also faced criticism and opposition from various stakeholders, including teacher unions, regarding aspects like extended school hours and the lack of extensive pilot testing.This pre-existing climate of debate makes the current module controversy particularly sensitive, as any perceived lapse can fuel mistrust and undermine the entire reform process.The transition also involves a change in learning materials, with activity books and simplified module materials replacing traditional textbooks for Grades 1 and 6. Accountability and Future Safeguards The National Institute of Education (NIE) bears the primary responsibility for curriculum and module development. Secretary Kaluwewa confirmed that an internal investigation is actively underway at the NIE to identify any oversight or error that may have occurred during the complex multi-step process of module compilation, examination, editing, and final printing.The problematic website name, according to officials, was technically obscure and only identifiable by someone with specific technical knowledge, raising further questions about its insertion. Approximately 106 modules have been printed under the new reform process, with the erroneous section believed to have been introduced during re-editing and additions for the year 2025, even though much of the content was drafted earlier.The Ministry has assured the public that immediate corrective measures will be taken to rectify defects in these modules, which have been used for teacher training since August, and new safeguards will be implemented to prevent similar incidents in the future. As the CID begins its full-scale investigation, the nation awaits answers, hoping to ensure the integrity of its education system and safeguard the learning environment for its children. The outcome of this probe will undoubtedly have significant implications for public trust and the future trajectory of Sri Lanka’s educational reforms.
Sri Lanka Shatters All-Time Tourism Record as India’s “Third-Favorite” Holiday Spot
Sri Lanka has officially entered a new era of global travel dominance. Today, December 29, 2025, the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean” achieved a historic milestone by welcoming its 2,333,797th tourist of the year, officially breaking the all-time arrival record previously set in 2018. This record-breaking moment comes on the heels of a massive surge in regional interest, with new data confirming that Sri Lanka is now the third-favorite international destination for Indian travelers, overtaking giants like Singapore and Indonesia. A Historic Milestone: Surpassing 2018 For years, 2018 was considered the “golden year” for Sri Lankan tourism with 2,333,796 arrivals. Today, that ceiling was finally shattered. In a symbolic twist of fate, the record-breaking visitor was an Indian national from Thiruvananthapuram, who was greeted with traditional Sri Lankan hospitality at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA). Tourism authorities are calling this a “complete recovery” and a “renaissance” for the sector, which has faced significant hurdles over the last five years. Why Indian Travelers are Choosing Sri Lanka According to the latest MakeMyTrip year-end report, Sri Lanka has secured the #3 spot for international bookings during the 2025/2026 festive season. Only Thailand and the UAE currently rank higher. The “Visa-Free” Catalyst One of the primary drivers of this growth is the 30-day visa-free entry policy for Indian citizens. By removing the friction of travel paperwork, Sri Lanka has successfully positioned itself as a “spontaneous” getaway destination. The Compact Diversity Factor Indian tourists, particularly Gen Z and Millennials, are moving away from traditional “city-only” trips. Sri Lanka’s appeal lies in its “Compact Diversity”—the ability to witness: Global Recognition: A Top 5 Destination for 2026 The momentum isn’t just regional. U.S. News & World Report has officially ranked Sri Lanka as the #5 Best Place to Visit in Asia for 2026. The island joins an elite list alongside Mount Fuji and Seoul, praised specifically for offering world-class experiences—like the scenic Pekoe Trail and the ancient fortress of Sigiriya—without the overwhelming crowds seen in other Asian hubs. What’s Next for Lankan Tourism? With the 2.3 million arrival mark crossed, the government and private sector are now looking toward a 3-million-visitor target for 2026. The focus is shifting toward sustainable high-end tourism, ensuring that the island’s natural beauty is preserved even as its popularity soars. For the locals, this record is more than just a number; it is a sign of economic stability and a global vote of confidence in the Sri Lankan spirit.
The rumors circulating in society following the incident where Isuru assaulted Deshani, leaving her with a broken nose.
The Public Outcry Following the Split Between Isuru and Deshani An intense controversy erupted after popular actress Deshani Nehara (24) and popular actor Isuru Lokuhettiarachchi (42) revealed their romantic relationship during the recent Sumathi Awards night. This announcement sparked a “battle for love” between Isuru and his former partner, Tarindi. At one point, Tarindi even held a mock wedding ceremony, which Isuru publicly criticized. From the beginning, these romantic sagas were viewed by many as part of a scripted performance. However, recent developments on social media have generated a mix of humor and sadness. Deshani recently shared photos showing injuries to her nose, confirming that their relationship has come to an end. Social media discussions have reignited as information surfaced suggesting that the conflict between the two was not a common lovers’ quarrel, but a serious incident involving physical assault and violence. This became the dominant topic on platforms like Facebook after Deshani Nehara posted an emotional note on her official accounts alongside photos of her facial injuries. Reports have since emerged alleging that Isuru assaulted Deshani, causing severe damage to her face. Following this incident, Deshani herself confirmed that their long-term relationship has officially ended. In a lengthy Facebook post, she detailed the bitter experience she endured, seeking to inform the public about the “true nature” of the person she once loved. Deshani Nehara Breaks Her Silence: “Love Made Me Blind” According to the sentiments shared by Deshani Nehara, she expressed with deep pain that some people enter our lives in disguise, hiding their true nature. She stated that such individuals play with sincere hearts under the guise of love, noting that she encountered such a “soul” during a specific period of her life. With profound shock, she recalled how she loved this person unreservedly and placed limitless trust in him, never hesitating to sacrifice the most valuable things in her life for his sake. Deshani mentioned that while she was in this relationship, many people blamed and criticized her, which even resulted in her parents facing insults. However, she expressed her gratitude to everyone who tried to advise her by pointing out the good and the bad, admitting that she had been “blinded by love.” She also gratefully remembered even strangers who tried to show her the truth for whatever reason. Critique of Character and Infidelity In her post, she further questioned why some people behave as if they lack even a spark of humanity, regardless of how much value, love, and respect they are given. She strongly criticized men who behave like animals, failing to value the humanity of an honest love. She pointed out that men who seek out other women for various motives while their own woman is by their side possess a “very low mentality.” Deshani described such individuals as having weak personalities, unable to remain faithful to one heart or respect responsibilities and commitments. She drew a sharp comparison to Isuru’s behavior by using the proverb: “The leopard does not change its spots, even if the jungle changes,” a statement that has garnered significant public attention. Final Request to the Public She concluded by stating that although this is a personal matter, she decided to post this note because it had become a topic of national discussion for several days. Finally, she requested the public to refrain from asking any further unnecessary questions regarding the matter. Key Cultural Nuance The phrase “කැලේ මාරු වුවද කොටියාගේ පුල්ලි මාරු නොවන බව” is a Sinhala idiom equivalent to the English proverb “A leopard can’t change its spots.” In this context, she is implying that despite new surroundings or new relationships, a person’s fundamental (and in this case, negative) character remains the same. This text describes the widespread social media backlash against Isuru, the support for Deshani, and the broader conversation regarding domestic violence and toxic relationships. Here is the English translation: Public Backlash and Solidarity: The Aftermath of the Deshani-Isuru Incident Following the incident, many within the arts community and across social media have rallied behind Deshani, while a wave of intense opposition has emerged against Isuru. Critics have labeled Isuru as a “womanizer” and a deceiver, suggesting that his recent behavior is unsurprising. Social media users have drawn parallels to a similar incident three years ago involving an actress named Tarindi, who was also in a relationship with Isuru. Reports state that Tarindi struggled to escape the relationship and had even posted on Facebook at the time regarding her ordeal. By comparing the two situations, many point to a recurring pattern in Isuru’s behavior. Another commentator, Manohari, noted that if respect is not present in a relationship, one should leave rather than stay. Voices from the Industry Actress Maheshi Madushanka, returning to social media after some time, addressed the issue via a live video. She expressed a mix of sarcasm and sadness, remarking that some men in Sri Lanka have reached a pathetic state; she noted that while Deshani shared photos of her actual injuries, some men have resorted to mocking the situation by posing with pieces of paper stuck to their faces. Recalling her own past bitter experiences, Maheshi warned those who once laughed at her that they too might face similar trials soon. She strongly condemned men who raise their hands against women and expressed solidarity with Deshani. Notably, Isuru’s side has yet to issue a response to these allegations. Messages of Empowerment and Caution Social media activist Sasindu Sahan Tharaka issued a poignant message to the public. He argued that if a relationship ends with one partner being beaten until their face is wounded, it is a serious sign to re-evaluate who they were with in the first place. He called it tragic that a victim has to resort to tagging an abuser on Facebook to express their pain. Sasindu noted that he has witnessed such violence not just among celebrities but in everyday life—including instances at Galle Face Green where men publicly assaulted their partners. His advice to the public