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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Asha Bhosle and Kishore Kumar. Photo: Hindustan Times
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.
Bhosle with her legendary sister Lata Mangeshkar
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.
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.
April 12, Colombo (LNW): Authorities have cautioned the public to think twice before sharing their whereabouts online during the New Year holiday period, warning that careless social media use could expose homes to criminal activity.
In a recent advisory, the Sri Lanka Police highlighted how real-time posts, location tags, and check-ins can unintentionally signal that a residence has been left unattended. Officers noted that such digital footprints are increasingly being exploited by opportunistic thieves.
To counter this risk, the public has been encouraged to adopt a “later-gram” habit—waiting until they have returned home before uploading photos, videos, or travel updates. Popular platforms such as Facebook and Instagram were specifically mentioned as spaces where oversharing can create vulnerabilities.
Police further advised travellers to review privacy settings, limit public visibility of posts, and avoid broadcasting detailed travel plans.
They stressed that even seemingly harmless updates could provide enough information for criminals to identify empty properties, urging citizens to remain vigilant both offline and online during the festive season.
April 12, Colombo (LNW): A suspect has been taken into custody following an incident of vandalism and theft at the recently upgraded Pettah Central Bus Stand, which only resumed operations earlier this month after extensive renovations.
Police said the complaint was filed by the facility’s welfare unit after newly installed infrastructure was found damaged, raising concerns about security at the busy transport hub. The report was initially received by the Sri Lanka Police through the Pettah Police Station.
After a brief investigation, officers apprehended a 33-year-old man in the Kelaniya area on April 11. Some of the items believed to have been taken from the premises were reportedly recovered during the arrest, and further inquiries are under way to determine whether others were involved.
Authorities have also indicated that a technical evaluation of the extent of the damage will be sought from the Sri Lanka Air Force, particularly given its expertise in infrastructure assessment.
The suspect has since been produced before the Colombo Chief Magistrate’s Court and ordered to remain in remand custody until April 17, as investigations continue.
April 12, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka is preparing to welcome Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu on an official visit expected next month, signalling a renewed push to deepen bilateral ties between the two island nations.
Ahead of the visit, Masood Imad met with Fisheries Minister Ramalingam Chandrasekar for discussions focused on expanding cooperation within the fisheries sector. The meeting, held at the Parliament complex, centred on identifying practical avenues for joint ventures and trade growth.
Among the proposals explored was the idea of combining the Maldives’ abundant fresh fish supply with Sri Lanka’s well-established fish processing and canning capabilities, with a view to producing competitive products for both regional and international markets.
The talks also touched on boosting value-added production within Sri Lanka specifically for Maldivian consumers, as well as enhancing technical collaboration and knowledge sharing between the two countries. Officials expressed optimism that these initiatives could pave the way for stronger economic links and greater resilience in the fisheries industry on both sides.
