Serpent, Scepter, and Seduction The Untold Story of Cleopatra
In the grand halls of history, few names echo with as much allure, controversy, and mystique as Cleopatra VII Thea Philopator, the last active ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt. Born in 69 BCE and dying by suicide in 30 BCE, Cleopatra’s life was a masterclass in survival, seduction, political genius, and tragedy. But her story is far more nuanced than the often-simplified Hollywood caricature of a sultry temptress. Cleopatra was a linguist,
The Iran–Israel War Fallout and the Fight for Regional stability
The direct military confrontation between Iran and Israel, which erupted into full-scale hostilities in June 2025, has rapidly reshaped the Middle East’s political landscape. While Part I of this series examined the historical roots and triggers of the conflict, this article focuses on the broader ramifications of the war. With U.S. involvement intensifying, European powers scrambling to respond, and humanitarian crises escalating in Gaza, Lebano
The Iran, Israel War
In June 2025, the long-simmering hostilities between Iran and Israel escalated into an open military conflict, shaking the foundations of Middle Eastern geopolitics and capturing global attention.
Princess Diana The People’s Princess and Her Enduring Legacy
Princess Diana of Wales, born Diana Frances Spencer, remains one of the most beloved and iconic figures of the 20th century. Revered for her grace, compassion, and vulnerability, Diana captivated the world not only as a royal but as a humanitarian and modern woman navigating immense public scrutiny. Known as the “People’s Princess,” she redefined what it meant to be a royal in the contemporary era, bringing emotional intelligence and empathy into
Digital Detox Can We Really Disconnect in a Hyperconnected World?
We live in an era where being “online” is no longer a choice, it has become a way of life. Smartphones, social media, instant messaging, and constant connectivity have reshaped not just how we communicate, but how we work, think, and even rest. The average person checks their phone over 100 times a day, and studies show that the mere presence of a smartphone can distract us, even when we aren’t actively using it.
30-Day Challenges: Do They Really Build Lasting Habits?
In an era dominated by quick fixes, self-improvement hacks, and viral social media trends, 30-day challenges have emerged as a popular method for cultivating new habits and transforming lifestyles.
How Sleep Deprivation Is Undermining Teen Minds
Adolescence is often dismissed as a period of rebellion, moodiness, and recklessness. But growing evidence suggests that much of what we attribute to “teen angst” may actually stem from
Tragedy in Ahmedabad
On 12 June 2025, a devastating aviation disaster struck India when Air India Flight AI 171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport.
Father’s Day Honouring the Quiet Architects of Love
On the third Sunday of June each year, we pause to pay homage to a figure who is often described in hushed tones and subtle gestures; fathers. In the landscape of celebration, Father’s Day sits
Pretty Privilege in the Age of Filters Who Gets to Be Seen?
In a world where digital presence often precedes physical presence, our facesoften altered, filtered, and algorithmically enhanced—become our passport to visibility.
11:11 Episode One Featuring Yanika Amarasekara Siyaguna
Today, I have the privilege of speaking with Yanika Amarasekera-Siyaguna, a visionary entrepreneur who has recently been recognized in the Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia 2025 list under the Retail & E-Commerce category.
Queen of the Silver Screen A Tribute to Malini Fonseka
Malini Senehelatha Fonseka, known to generations of Sri Lankans as the “Queen of Sinhala Cinema,” was more than a screen icon. She was a cultural force; an actress, director, trailblazer, and parliamentarian whose contributions helped shape Sri Lanka’s cinematic and artistic identity. Her passing on May 24, 2025, marked the end of an era, leaving a profound void in the country’s artistic and cultural tapestry. With a career spanning over five dec
Skinification of Everything When Skincare Becomes a Full-Body Ritual
In a world increasingly driven by self-awareness, science-backed wellness, and the influence of social media beauty rituals, skincare is no longer just skin-deep. Enter the era of “skinification of everything” a growing trend where skincare principles, ingredients, and routines are expanding beyond the face to include hair, body, scalp, and even nails. Once niche, now mainstream, skinification is redefining the global beauty narrative by treating
Healing is the New Glow-Up But What Comes After?
There was a time when the phrase “glow-up” meant a full physical transformation, clearer skin, shinier hair, a closet overhaul, and a radiant smile that whispered, “Look at me now.”
A Border of Fire The Wars and Wounds Between India and Pakistan
The India-Pakistan conflict is one of the most enduring and volatile rivalries in modern international relations. Since the creation of the two nations in 1947 following the end of British colonial rule, India and Pakistan have engaged in a series of wars, military stand-offs, and hostile diplomatic exchanges that continue to impact the peace and security of South Asia. The causes of these repeated confrontations lie in a complex web of historica
The New Digital Etiquette Online Behaviours That Are Becoming Socially Unacceptable.
We live in a world that’s more connected than ever before but also one where a wrong emoji, a mistimed message, or an unsolicited comment can instantly shift someone’s perception of you.
Where Fashion Meets Art: A SANDEESHWARA’S Journey to the Top
In today’s feature, we are here with one of Sri Lanka’s most promising young talents in the world of creative photography.
The Papacy An Enduring Institution of Faith and History
With the demise of His Holiness Pope Francis, a figure beloved for his humility, compassion, and progressive vision, it occurred to me to reflect on the rich and complex history of the papacy itself.
The 5 AM Club Isn’t for Everyone. Here’s the Lazy Girl’s Guide to Winning the Day.
You don’t need a ten-step ritual. Just a few small wins to kick-start the day without turning into a productivity cult member.