By: Isuru Parakrama
April 13, Colombo (LNW): Health authorities have stepped up inspections of eateries and food outlets across Sri Lanka as part of a nationwide effort to safeguard public health during the busy Sinhala and Tamil New Year season.
The Public Health Inspectors’ Association of Sri Lanka confirmed that ongoing checks have been carried out extensively in recent days, with thousands of establishments already coming under scrutiny.
According to its Secretary, Chamil Muthukuda, nearly 4,000 premises have been inspected within a span of less than two weeks.
He cautioned that the festive period often sees an increase in attempts by certain traders to distribute substandard or unsafe food products, taking advantage of heightened consumer demand.
As a result, authorities are maintaining heightened vigilance and have pledged to take firm action against those found violating health regulations.
Officials are also urging the public to exercise caution when purchasing food, advising consumers to check for proper hygiene standards and avoid items that appear suspicious.
Islandwide Food Safety Checks Intensified Amid Festive Rush
Sri Lanka Prepares to Welcome the New Year with Time-Honoured Rituals
By: Isuru Parakrama
April 13, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka stands on the threshold of the Sinhala and Tamil New Year, with just hours remaining before the traditional dawn that marks one of the country’s most significant cultural celebrations.
The New Year is observed at the moment the sun transitions from Pisces (Meena Rashiya) to Aries (Mesha Rashiya), a celestial shift that holds deep astrological and cultural meaning for communities across the island.
Homes and villages are already alive with preparations, as families ready themselves for the carefully timed rituals that define the occasion.
According to this year’s auspicious schedule, the ‘Punya Kaalaya’—a sacred period dedicated to religious observances and reflection—will commence in the early hours at 3:08 a.m. and continue until mid-afternoon.
The official New Year dawn is set for 9:32 a.m., marking the beginning of a series of customs observed in strict accordance with tradition.
Later in the morning, households will light their hearths at the prescribed time, symbolising prosperity and renewal. By early afternoon, families will gather to begin work, exchange goods, and share their first meal of the year, following age-old guidance such as wearing red attire and facing south to invite good fortune.
Cultural experts note that these rituals, passed down through generations, continue to play a vital role in preserving Sri Lanka’s heritage, blending astrology, spirituality, and communal celebration into a uniquely meaningful start to the year.
Concerns Mount Over Delays in Police Emergency Response
April 13, Colombo (LNW): Public Security Minister Ananda Wijepala has acknowledged a growing number of public complaints associated with slow response times linked to the country’s emergency police hotline (119), raising fresh concerns about the efficiency of rapid response services.
The Minister revealed that he had personally followed up on one such complaint, in which a caller alleged that no action had been taken even hours after reporting an incident via the 119 emergency line. Acting on his advice, the individual subsequently escalated the matter through the 118 National Help Desk, prompting further attention to the delay.
Grievances of this nature are now being reported almost daily, reflecting mounting public frustration, according to Wijepala. He emphasised that the 119 hotline handles a substantial volume of calls—typically between 4,000 and 4,500 each day—which places considerable strain on available resources and personnel.
He also observed that public expectations of law enforcement have evolved, with greater scrutiny being placed on police conduct and responsiveness than in previous years. While conceding that criticism has intensified, the Minister emphasised that many officers continue to perform commendably under challenging conditions.
Efforts are reportedly under way within the Sri Lanka Police to modernise operations and enhance response times. Officials say reforms will focus on improving coordination, upgrading systems, and ensuring that emergency services are better equipped to meet the needs of the public in a timely manner.
Opposition Seeks Probe into Controversial Coal Tender Audio
April 13, Colombo (LNW): Tensions have escalated over Sri Lanka’s coal procurement process after members of the Samagi Jana Balawegaya formally lodged a complaint with the Criminal Investigation Department, calling for an inquiry into a disputed audio recording that has surfaced in recent days.
Speaking to reporters, parliamentarian Mujibur Rahman claimed the recording raises serious concerns about the integrity of a recent tender, suggesting it may have been awarded to an individual with close links to the country’s leadership. He argued that the matter warrants immediate investigation in order to safeguard transparency in public procurement.
Fellow party member Waruna Rajapaksha echoed these concerns, alleging possible irregularities in the awarding of spot tenders for coal supplies. He further indicated that the contents of the recording imply undue influence may have been exerted by a senior authority during the decision-making process.
However, the Lanka Coal Company has strongly rejected the allegations, dismissing the circulating audio as misleading and taken out of context.
In an official statement, Chairman Jayantha Rathnayake clarified that the conversation in question pertained to routine administrative requirements linked to an emergency coal supply already approved by the Cabinet.
He explained that the discussion focused on instructing the supplier to provide a valid performance bond dated March 25, 2026, in line with standard contractual obligations. According to the company, the procurement was conducted in accordance with established guidelines, and the tender process had been properly completed.
Authorities have also cautioned the public against drawing premature conclusions based on unverified material circulating online, as political scrutiny over the issue continues to intensify.
Nationwide Day of Prayer Announced to Honour Easter Attack Victims
April 13, Colombo (LNW): The Catholic community in Sri Lanka has designated April 19, 2026 as a solemn day of prayer and remembrance for those affected by the devastating Easter Sunday bombings.
Making the announcement, the Archbishop of Colombo, His Eminence Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith, stated that special religious observances will take place in churches across the island. The initiative aims not only to honour the memory of the victims but also to offer spiritual support to their families, many of whom continue to seek answers years after the tragedy.
He noted that congregations will gather for prayer services invoking divine guidance, with a particular emphasis on uncovering the full truth behind the attacks.
Health Officials Call for Safer New Year Celebrations Across Sri Lanka
April 13, Colombo (LNW): Public health authorities in Sri Lanka have issued a fresh appeal urging citizens and event organisers to follow safety guidance during the upcoming Sinhala and Tamil New Year festivities, with a particular focus on reducing injuries linked to seasonal games and competitions.
The advisory, compiled by the Ministry of Health through its Non-Communicable Diseases Unit, sets out a series of precautionary measures aimed at ensuring that traditional celebrations remain both enjoyable and safe. Officials have highlighted that certain popular activities—especially those involving physical exertion—pose a heightened risk if not properly managed.
Organisers have been strongly encouraged to comply with the recommended protocols when hosting New Year events, including adapting programmes to suit participants’ fitness levels and environmental conditions. Authorities note that greater planning and oversight could significantly reduce preventable incidents that tend to rise during this festive period.
Particular attention has been drawn to endurance-based activities such as long-distance village races and cycling events. Participants are advised to undertake structured preparation for a minimum of six weeks in advance, ideally under the supervision of a trained coach, to minimise the risk of strain, dehydration, or more serious complications.
In addition, officials have stressed the importance of having adequate medical support on site. Event venues are expected to provide properly equipped first aid stations, trained personnel, and rapid access to emergency care if needed. Health experts warn that such provisions are essential, especially as large crowds and competitive enthusiasm can sometimes lead to unforeseen incidents.
Fuel Shipment Bolsters Sri Lanka’s Power Generation Capacity
April 13, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka has received a fresh consignment of furnace oil intended to support the country’s electricity production, offering some relief to ongoing energy demands.
According to Mayura Neththikumara, Managing Director of the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CEYPETCO), a tanker carrying approximately 30,000 metric tonnes of fuel oil docked in the country over the weekend. The arrival is expected to strengthen fuel reserves at a time when consistent power supply remains a priority.
The vessel reached port on April 12, after which offloading operations were promptly initiated. Authorities confirmed that the transfer of the shipment to the Kolonnawa Petroleum Storage Terminal is already under way, with officials working to expedite distribution for power generation purposes.
Energy sector analysts suggest that such timely imports are vital for maintaining grid stability, particularly amid fluctuating demand and periodic supply constraints.
Afternoon showers, thundershowers further expected across Island (April 13)
April 13, Colombo (LNW): Showers or thundershowers will occur at most places of the island after 1.00 pm., the Department of Meteorology said today (13).
Showers or thundershowers may occur at some places in Western, Southern and Eastern provinces in the morning.
Fairly heavy falls above 75 mm are likely at some places in Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, Southern and North-western provinces.
Misty conditions can be expected at some places in Central, Sabaragamuwa and Uva provinces during the early hours of the morning.
The general public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimise damages caused by temporary localised strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.
On the apparent northward relative motion of the sun, it is going to be directly over the latitudes of Sri Lanka during 05th to 15th of April in this year. The nearest areas of Sri Lanka over which the sun is overhead today (13th) are Pesalai, Mankulam and Nedunkerny about 12:11 noon.
Marine Weather:
Condition of Rain:
Showers or thundershowers will occur at several places in the sea areas off the coast extending from Puttalam to Trincomalee via Colombo, Galle, Hambantota and Batticaloa.
Winds:
Winds will be South-westerly or variable in direction. Wind speed will be (20-30) kmph.
State of Sea:
The sea areas around the island will be slight.
Temporarily strong gusty winds and very rough seas can be expected during thundershowers.
Asha Bhosle: The Eternal Voice That Shaped Eight Decades of Indian Music
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By: Isuru Parakrama
April 12, World (LNW): The world of music bid farewell to one of its most enduring and versatile voices as Asha Bhosle passed away on April 12, 2026, at the age of 92. She died at Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai after being admitted a day earlier with extreme exhaustion and a chest infection. Her son, Anand Bhosle, confirmed that her final rites would be held at Shivaji Park on April 13. With a staggering career spanning over eight decades and more than 12,000–15,000 songs recorded in over 20 languages, she leaves behind an unparalleled musical legacy.
Humble Beginnings and Early Struggles
Born on September 8, 1933, in Goar, Sangli (now in Maharashtra), Asha Bhosle was the daughter of the renowned classical singer and actor Pandit Deenanath Mangeshkar and Shevanti. Tragedy struck early when her father passed away in 1942, forcing the family to relocate from Pune to Kolhapur and eventually Mumbai in search of stability.
Alongside her siblings, including her illustrious elder sister Lata Mangeshkar, Asha began singing at a young age to support the family. At just 10, she recorded her first song, “Chala Chala Nav Bala,” for the Marathi film Majha Bal (1943). Her Hindi debut followed with “Saawan Aaya” in Chunariya (1948), and her first solo came in Raat Ki Rani (1949).
A Personal Life Marked by Turmoil and Resilience
Asha Bhosle’s personal journey was as dramatic as her professional rise. At 16, she married Ganpatrao Bhosle, her much older personal secretary, against her family’s wishes. The marriage proved deeply troubled, marked by abuse and isolation from her family. Eventually, she returned to her maternal home while pregnant with her third child, raising her children independently after the separation.
Her children included Hemant Bhosle, a music director who passed away in 2015; Varsha Bhosle, a columnist who died tragically in 2012; and Anand Bhosle, who later managed her career.
In 1980, she found companionship again with the legendary composer Rahul Dev Burman, affectionately known as Pancham. Despite initial opposition from his family, the two married and remained together until his death in 1994. She fondly referred to him as “Bob,” reflecting the warmth of their relationship.
From Obscurity to Stardom
The early phase of Asha’s career in the 1940s and 1950s was marked by struggle. She often sang for low-budget films and was typecast as the voice for vamps. However, her persistence paid off when she began collaborating with music director O. P. Nayyar in the 1950s. This partnership gave her a distinct identity and led to her breakthrough in Naya Daur (1957), where her duets with Mohammed Rafi became immensely popular.
Her collaboration with R.D. Burman in the 1960s marked a turning point. Songs like “Aaja Aaja” and “O Haseena Zulfonwali” from Teesri Manzil (1966) showcased her ability to adapt to modern, Western-influenced music styles. Actor Shammi Kapoor once famously remarked that if he did not have Mohammed Rafi, he would have chosen Asha to sing for him—an extraordinary testament to her versatility.
The Iconic Voice of a Generation
By the 1970s and 1980s, Asha Bhosle had become synonymous with bold, experimental music. Her performances in songs like “Piya Tu Ab To Aaja” (Caravan, 1971), “Dum Maro Dum” (Hare Rama Hare Krishna, 1971), and “Yeh Mera Dil” (Don, 1978) earned her widespread acclaim and multiple Filmfare Awards.
Yet, she was far more than a voice of cabaret and disco. She reinvented herself with soulful ghazals in films like Umrao Jaan (1981), earning her first National Film Award for “Dil Cheez Kya Hai” and “In Aankhon Ki Masti Ke.” Her second National Award came with Ijaazat (1987) for the evocative “Mera Kuchh Saamaan.”
Reinvention in the Modern Era
Even in her later years, Asha Bhosle remained musically relevant. In 1995, at the age of 62, she collaborated with A. R. Rahman for Rangeela, delivering hits like “Tanha Tanha” and “Rangeela Re.” She continued this successful partnership with songs such as “Radha Kaise Na Jale” from Lagaan (2001), which won her an IIFA Award.
Her adaptability across generations ensured that her voice resonated with both older audiences and younger listeners alike.
Beyond Music: A Multifaceted Personality
Asha Bhosle’s talents extended beyond singing. A passionate cook, she was particularly known for dishes such as kadai ghosht, biryani, paya curry, and Goan fish curry. Her culinary passion led her to establish a chain of restaurants across Dubai, Kuwait, Abu Dhabi, Doha, Bahrain, and the United Kingdom, where she held a 20% stake.
She also ventured into acting, making her debut at the age of 79 in the film Mai (2013), where she portrayed a mother suffering from Alzheimer’s disease—earning critical acclaim. In 2020, she embraced the digital era by launching her YouTube channel, “Asha Bhosle Official,” further connecting with fans worldwide.
A Legacy That Transcends Time
Recognised by Guinness World Records as the most recorded artist in music history, Asha Bhosle’s contribution to global music is immeasurable. Her ability to traverse genres—from classical and ghazal to pop and cabaret—set her apart as a true pioneer.
Her voice was not merely a medium of entertainment but a reflection of evolving cultural and musical landscapes over eight decades. With her passing, an era draws to a close, yet her songs continue to echo across generations, ensuring that her legacy remains immortal.
Legendary Singer Asha Bhosle No More!
By: Isuru Parakrama
April 12, World (LNW): Reports from Indian media confirm that legendary playback singer Asha Bhosle has passed away at the age of 92, prompting an outpouring of concern and tributes from across the music world.
The veteran artiste had recently been admitted to Breach Candy Hospital after her health reportedly declined.
Sources indicate she had been battling severe fatigue along with a chest infection in the days leading up to her hospitalisation.
News of her condition first surfaced through a message shared online by her granddaughter, Zinai Bhosle, who appealed for privacy while the singer received medical care. At the time, the family had indicated that her condition was under close observation.
Widely regarded as one of the most distinctive and enduring voices in Indian cinema, Asha Bhosle’s career spanned several decades, during which she recorded thousands of songs in multiple languages. Her remarkable ability to evolve with changing musical trends earned her admiration across generations.
Over the years, she was honoured with some of India’s highest recognitions, including the Dadasaheb Phalke Award and the Padma Vibhushan, underscoring her immense contribution to the arts.
Bhosle’s passing marks a moment of deep reflection on a legacy that shaped the sound of South Asian music.
