News & Events

The festivities of the day commence with formal ceremonies in Colombo, where Sri Lanka’s President, Anura Kumara Dissanayake, raises the national flag and delivers an address highlighting the country’s achievements and aspirations for the future. The proceedings feature military displays, traditional performances, and multi-faith observances, embodying the rich tapestry of Sri Lanka’s diverse population.

Across the island, citizens gather to celebrate with magnificent fireworks displays, patriotic musical performances, and community events. Schools and organisations organise special programmes commemorating Sri Lanka’s journey to independence. National Day serves as a poignant moment for collective reflection, gratitude, and a renewed commitment to the nation’s development and social harmony.

Global music icon Chris Martin and acclaimed actress Dakota Johnson have been spotted participating in sacred rituals at India’s Mahakumbh 2025 festival in Prayagraj. The Coldplay frontman and his fiancée were filmed taking part in the traditional holy dip at the Triveni Sangam, where three sacred rivers meet.

A fan, who unexpectedly encountered the duo at the riverbank, shared a video on Instagram, expressing admiration for Martin’s humility and respect for the Triveni Sangam. The fan captioned the moment, celebrating how fate brought Coldplay to him instead of the other way around.

Martin was dressed in black shorts, while Johnson wore a kurta and trousers. They both followed local traditions, with Martin visibly engaged in the ritual. The couple’s involvement in this revered festival has resonated widely, with many praising their respect for Indian culture and traditions.

Read the original article here: https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/music/coldplay-chris-martin-dakota-johnson-take-a-dip-at-mahakumbh-2025-wins-for-respect-watch-9811447/

As one of Australia’s most iconic tourist destinations, Queensland’s Gold Coast has long been a magnet for travellers from Asia seeking out some winter sunshine. Recently, Hong Kong Airlines resumed its services to the Gold Coast in time for the Lunar New Year holidays, the first local carrier to reinstate this highly popular route.

Passengers on the inaugural Hong Kong Airlines services were treated to colourful celebrations twice – once when boarding in Hong Kong and again on arrival in Australia at the Gold Coast Airport (OOL). The resumed service will operate four times weekly on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays from Hong Kong, with return flights from the Gold Coast the following day.

Read the original article here: https://simpleflying.com/hong-kong-airlines-gold-coast-chinese-new-year/