THE MONDAY BRIEF
On May 13, 2025, Mali’s military-led government officially dissolved all political parties and organizations, intensifying a crackdown on dissent amid ongoing pro-democracy protests. The unrest began on May 3, when hundreds gathered in Bamako to oppose President Assimi Goïta’s proposed extension of his term to 2030. The government’s actions, including arrests of opposition figures and media restrictions, have drawn condemnation from international
Gatz Cinnamon Life
GATZ’s exclusive High Tea launch at Cinnamon Life’s Level 23 brought sophistication to new heights on Saturday, May 17th. Guests were treated to an elevated culinary experience with a breathtaking view of the Colombo oceanfront. The afternoon featured an artfully curated menu of refined savouries like tuna tataki and mini beef sliders, paired with indulgent desserts including yuzu macarons and dark
A Vision Realised In Conversation with Sanjeev Hulugalle CEO and General Manager, Cinnamon Life
Rising above Colombo’s skyline like a beacon of aspiration, Cinnamon Life isn’t just a development; it’s a statement. At the helm of this transformative project is Sanjeev Hulugalle, a global hospitality veteran whose return to Sri Lanka marks more than a homecoming. With an illustrious career spanning over a dozen countries and brands such as Four Seasons and KOHLER, Sanjeev brings a rare blend of global luxury acumen and heartfelt Sri Lankan sp
Grace, Grit, and the Runway: A Conversation with Rozanne Diaz
Rozanne Diaz is no stranger to reinvention. From tomboy schoolgirl to Miss Sri Lanka Universe 2005, from pageant queen to grooming coach, and now, co-host of the bold new podcast series
Fame, Frogs and French Flair: A Conversation with Kumar de Silva
As he steps into the spotlight once again as co-host of the new in-person podcast series Fame Game with Kumar de Silva and Rozanne Diaz, media personality, author, and etiquette trainer Kumar de Silva
Sotheby’s Hong Kong Sparks Global Outcry Over Attempted Auction of Sacred Buddha Relics
In early May 2025, Sotheby’s Hong Kong faced a significant cultural and diplomatic controversy over its planned auction of the “Piprahwa Gems of the Historical Buddha,” a collection of ancient jewels believed to have been interred alongside the remains of Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha, over 2,000 years ago. The auction, which was scheduled for May 7, was abruptly postponed following strong objections from the Indian government, which claimed the
The Monday brief
On May 10, 2025, India and Pakistan agreed to a U.S.-mediated ceasefire after escalating hostilities in Kashmir. The truce, announced by President Trump, aimed to halt military actions following a deadly attack on Indian tourists. However, within hours, both nations accused each other of violations, with explosions reported in Srinagar and Peshawar. Despite initial optimism, the ceasefire’s durability remains uncertain as tensions persist.
In Conversation with Raveen Wickremasinghe President, Round Table, Sri Lanka
At the helm of Round Table Sri Lanka stands Raveen Wickremasinghe, a leader whose journey blends entrepreneurial drive with a deep commitment to service. As CEO of Ruhunu Hospital, the largest private healthcare provider in the Southern Province;
David Beckham
David Beckham’s 50th birthday was a global celebration, marked by a series of lavish events attended by family, friends, and celebrities. However, the absence of his eldest son, Brooklyn Beckham, and daughter-in-law, Nicola Peltz, cast a shadow over the festivities, highlighting underlying family tensions.
Building Legacy and Leading with Vision
From setting national athletic records and captivating audiences as a musician in Sri Lanka to leading one of Dubai’s most dynamic real estate firms, Iznu Insaf’s journey is anything but conventional. Today, as Executive Director of MJB Properties, he brings a unique blend of passion, resilience, and strategic vision to the forefront of Dubai’s competitive property market. Rooted in a legacy that spans nearly a century, MJB Properties is redefini
THE WORST DRESSED CELEBRITIES AT THE 2025 MET GALA
The 2025 Met Gala, themed “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” aimed to celebrate the elegance and innovation of Black dandyism. While many attendees embraced the theme with creativity and flair,
The Power of the Soft Voice How Empathy-Driven Women Are Leading Change
In a world that often equates leadership with dominance, loudness, and unyielding certainty, a quiet revolution is taking place. It’s not led by the loudest voices in the room, nor by those who wield power in traditional, patriarchal ways. Instead, it’s being driven by women who lead with empathy, emotional intelligence,
Sacred Feminine: The Enduring Role of Women in World Religions
Across centuries and continents, women have played pivotal roles in shaping religious thought, practice, and identity
The Monday Brief
On April 29, an explosion occurred at the Avanar Parsian Chemical Industries warehouse in Isfahan Province, Iran, resulting in two deaths and two injuries. The facility, known for producing fireworks and industrial gunpowder, is located in an area housing several industrial and military sites. The cause of the explosion is under investigation. The incident has raised concerns about safety standards and regulatory oversight in Iran’s handling of h
Harnessing Ancient Wisdom Mauli Rituals Founder Anita Kaushal Joins Sakshi Chhabra Mittal on the Latest Episode of Hak It.
In the latest episode of Hak It: The Foodhak Podcast, Sakshi Chhabra Mittal, founder of the groundbreaking wellness food brand FoodHak, sits down with Anita Kaushal; an inspiring entrepreneur, author, and the visionary behind Mauli Rituals.