A live concert by Indian trailblazing musician – Angaraag Mahanta, known by his stage name – ‘Papon’ was held in Colombo yesterday (Jan. 22).

The event was organised by the High Commission of India in Colombo and its cultural arm- the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre on the occasion of the 76th Republic Day of India.

A host of dignitaries including the acting High Commissioner – Dr. Satyanjal Pandey, former President – Maithripala Sirisena, Minister Wasantha Samarasinghe as well as Central Bank governor – Dr. Nandal Weerasinge and deputy ministers – Nalin Hewage, Harshana Suriyapperuma, Sunil Watagala, Mahinda Jayasinghe and Chathuranga Abeysinghe. In addition, the large gathering included members of defence and civil services of Sri Lanka, members of diplomatic corps, academia, members of business and media communities and Indian diaspora.

In a display of the rich cultural affinity between India and Sri Lanka, the evening commenced with a dynamic opening act titled ‘Swasthi’. The renowned Sri Lankan percussionist Dr. Ravibandhu Vidyapathi and his team showcased Indian melodies, including India’s National Song, ‘Vande Matram’ with the vibrant rhythm and traditional sounds of Sri Lanka.

Angaraag Mahanta aka Papon is a multifaceted musical genius-singer, multi-instrumentalist, composer, record producer and live performer.

With a voice that effortlessly blends smoothness and soul, he crafts a unique soundscape that spans ambient electronica, acoustic folk, electro-ghazals, and classical melodies.

In Bollywood, Papon’s rise to stardom has been marked by unforgettable hits like Moh Moh Ke Dhaage (Dum Laga Ke Haisha), Kyon (Barfi!), Jiyein Kyun (Dum Maaro Dum), Humnava (Hamari Adhuri Kahani), and Labon Ka Karobar (Befikre), along with contributions to films such as Sanju, Raid, Karwaan, and Sui Dhaaga.

A trailblazer in Indian non-film music, Papon has left an indelible mark with his participation in all four seasons of Coke Studio India and as the producer of two episodes of MTV Unplugged. His artistry has earned him accolades, including the Best Male Playback Singer awards at the Star Screen Awards, Mirchi Music Awards, TOIFA, GIMA, and IIFA Madrid.

Papon and his band have enthralled audiences across major Indian music festivals, college fests, corporate events, and private shows globally, from India to the USA, Europe, and the Middle East. A true innovator, his music transcends borders and genres, touching hearts worldwide.

(Pics : Shanika Jayasekara ; Additional Pics – Indian HC)

The Chief Observer of the European Union Election Observation Mission, Mr. Jose Ignacio Sanchez Amor, Member of the European Parliament, and his delegation met with the Speaker – Jagath Wickramaratne at Parliament on Jan. 17.

Secretary General of Parliament of Sri Lanka, Mrs. Kushani Rohanadeera, was also present on this occasion.
During this meeting, the Chief Observer of the European Union Election Observation Mission first extended his congratulations to the Speaker and the new government. He then presented the final report of the Presidential Election Observation Mission – 2024 to the Speaker. The Chief Observer praised the democratic conduct of the elections and acknowledged the vital role of the Election Commission, emphasizing the importance of strengthening the Commission. He also expressed his appreciation for the increase in women’s representation in the current Parliament.

Speaking at the meeting, Speaker Dr. Jagath Wickramaratne expressed his gratitude to the European Union Election Observation Mission for sharing their experience. 

The Speaker emphasized that the government is currently working towards a more transparent, corruption-free governance with true democratic qualities. Meanwhile, the Speaker further stated that plans are being made to hold a conference of Members of Parliament with disabilities for the first time in the country.

To mark the upcoming Chinese New Year festival, the Chinese Embassy in Sri Lanka and the Chinese Ministry of Culture and Tourism jointly hosted a cultural celebration last night (Jan. 19) at the Cinnamon Life Hotel.

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, who attended the event as Chief Guest, delivered a congratulatory message from President Anura Kumara Dissanayake for the Chinese New Year.

The celebration was also attended by former President – Maithripala Sirisena, former Prime Minister – Dinesh Gunawardena, Industry Minister – Sunil Handunnetti, Deputy Minister Finance and Planning – Dr. Harshana Sooriyapperuma and other political dignitaries, Chinese Ambassador to Sri Lanka – Qi Zhenhong, Prime Minister’s Secretary – Pradeep Saputhanthri as well as a large gathering of Sri Lankans and Chinese nationals.

Impressive Kungfu performances, colourful dances and musical performances graced the evening as well as traditional Chinese art forms such as paper cutting, calligraphy and sugar crafting.

A special delegation comprising 34 members from the Henan Art Troupe and the Sichuan Chef Team has also arrived in Sri Lanka as part of the New Year celebrations. In addition, the festivities will feature the “Chinese Food Festival” and the “Port City Chinese Cultural Night,” scheduled to take place from January 20 to 23.

According to the Chinese lunar calendar, 2025 is the year of the wood snake. The Snake is known for qualities such as grace, intelligence, and intuition.

(Pics – Shanika Jayasekara / Video – Kelum Shivantha)