Esteem Magazine – Page 27 – Esteem Magazine

Dearest Girija…

I thought it apt to wear a kurtha-inspired shirt that day as I knocked on the tall, black gates of India House. A moment later, as the gates opened wide, I stood dwarfed by the rolling gardens and the vista that housed the Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka and his wife. It truly was a scene that took my breath away. Anyone who has had the opportunity and privilege to visit this glorious place would surely agree.

Walking towards what was indubitably a grand mansion replete with copious amounts of expensive wood, and stern-looking mustachioed bodyguards, I mustered my errant thoughts. It took a certain kind of will to dispel whatever giddy atoms of nervousness that floated between my neurons, before I was ushered into the living room.

Good thing I wore the kurtha-esque shirt, I thought. Place me between the vast shelves of books, and I would have blended in properly with the ambient lighting and copious pieces of antique furniture. It was during this uncanny and anxiety-riddled thought that Girija walked in armed with two pugs, offered a disarming smile, sat and said that we could begin.

I took a deep breath, opened my mouth and choked. Nervousness brought on by interviewing VVIPs surely should have its own hallowed name and place in medical lexicon, my mind raged, as I took another deep breath, and let her speak. As Girija spoke, I listened, and couldn’t help but think of Maharani Gayatri Devi. Needless to say, I was enamored by the embodiment of simplicity and quiet class before me.

It’s true: I didn’t hear a word she said at first. She seemed to be more preoccupied talking to her pugs, which was when I realized that she was actually talking to me. She took me on a journey throughout her life, and was assured that it was not all baubles and riches. One cannot always reside in an ivory tower, she murmured.

Unlike your stereotypically spoilt diplomat, Girija’s life didn’t reek of the proverbial bed of roses. There were a great deal of challenges to overcome. The only silver spoon I saw that day was when I was served short eats. But just like the fine emotive swirls that adorned such exotic silverware, Girija’s life took on different inspired paths as well. It was and is a life that can only be described as a mosaic of achievements with their concomitant challenges.

Appearances are deceiving, dear reader. I sat before a woman who might be petite, and soft spoken, but this is an individual who was once upon a time a visiting lecturer at NYU (teaching Renaissance Art), and at CUNY (lecturing on a comparative study of Greek and Indian mythology); teaches meditation and self-healing; is a published author and a journalist; speaks 8 languages; manages a household with ruthless efficiency; cooks a Mutton Rogan Josh to die for; makes pasta from scratch; practices Reiki; and still has the charm and skill to blend in perfectly at a cocktail party boasting fountains of Möet and platters of caviar.

What do you crave, dear Girija? I crave learning — she divulged. And this is what she has dedicated her life to. Maybe this craving has something to do with the genes she inherited from her father (a publisher) and mother (a professor of entomology).

To deracinate is to tear something up by the roots, and this is what she has happily endured as her husband flies from one country to another. But while in Sri Lanka, she adores Nuwara Eliya since the cool climes served to remind her of her own home up north. One of her most treasured highlights in Serendipity was the trek to World’s End while her favorite city would be Galle.

Opportunity keeps company with those who are willing and able, and Girija has thrown herself to learning everything she possibly could in the many different cultures she has been fortunate enough to experience. Citing Plato’s Republic a favorite, she went onto mention that she treasures that 90s classic — Gattaca —when it comes to the silver screen.

How could I possibly conclude an interview without inquiring about any particular penchant she may have for Lankan cuisine? I’m quite fond of the Jaffna Crab Curry, she whispered, citing Ministry of Crab as an all-time favorite restaurant.

Treasuring well over three decades as a diplomat, Girija leaves with her husband to a new land where she will offer much-needed support to his role as a diplomat. Before I left India House, I was left to ponder a simple statement that defined this inimitable lady — I always look forward, and never backward. Consider me an eternal student, Rohitha. This is what truly excites me.

Gerald Solomons pauses

By Uditha Devapriya

People have stories to tell. More often than not, they have reasons for what they do, a higher destiny that propels them to stray into the fields of human enterprise they always wanted to work on. Then there are those who live for the moment, or at least give the impression of so doing, trusting that same higher destiny to do what others have consciously compelled unto themselves.

Gerald Solomons, owner (in more ways than one) of the top end hair salon Chagall, probably has more reasons than one for the career he’s set for himself. He is (and certainly gives the impression of being) enterprising, though he’s decorated his life with those unpredictable, quirky details (such as his choice of name for his salon, after an arty, avant-garde painter) which help explain a happy-go-lucky existence.

ESTEEM sat with Gerald some time back. We had questions to ask. He had a story to tell.

Could you describe your childhood, education, and experiences in life and work until now?

I began my life in this field of work as a trainee hairdresser and progressed as a senior stylist.

After my family and I migrated to Australia, I opened Chagall in Sydney and later in Auckland. I had the opportunity with that to widen my horizons by attending to the hair care of many celebrities.

I also have attended many workshops and given demonstrations in hair styling and cutting techniques. My experiences took me to the fashion capitals of the world: London, Milan, Paris, and of course Australia.

In a nutshell, how did you get into this industry?

As a child, I was always fascinated by hair and makeup as my mother went for her hair care to Salon Moira, owned by the formidable Moira Muthukrishna. That more or less tilted me towards the profession, from an early age. From then on I worked at Moira and became a senior hair stylist. I suspect that I never shall regret this decision as I have come to realise that it’s become my lifeblood.

Could you describe a normal day at Chagall?

That’s a tricky one to answer. Well, a normal day can be described as hectic, challenging, exciting and vibrant, well worth every bit of the day, depending on how you see it.

Our clients, to whom we are always grateful for their patronage, help us assess ourselves in ways which in turn help them to get better services from our staff. It’s basically a two-way street: they assess us, we assess ourselves.

What was and is it about Chagall that differentiates it from other top-end salons?

Chagall is always unique. It has atmosphere, vibrancy, colour, attitude, skills. It is staffed by people who are serious about what they do. This was what it was and it is what it is, and to go even further, it is what it always will be.

How do you manage to balance your career and your life?

Simple. My life is my career and my career is my life. Everything revolves around this concept. There are those who claim lives outside their careers, and they may consider that a blessing, but I for one can never go beyond the borders of my profession. It’s become almost an obsession, a garden to water and tend to almost, and it always shall be.

Time for some out of the blue questions. Who do you consider as your three most profound influences?

Firstly, our customers. Without them there is no life or career. So, I say thanks to all of them past present and future.

Secondly, my staff, both here in Sri Lanka and overseas. Without them there is no life or career.

Thirdly, to all those who have helped me shape my life and career, starting with Moira Muthukrishna, and also my parents for understanding why a boy wanted to be a hairdresser.

How much have you learnt from your interactions with your customers and staff?

Our customers gave us the challenges, the opportunity to create and be innovative to get us to where we are now. They still do challenge us, and we are grateful.

As for my staff, that they contribute in creative ways through their own experiences, their ability to learn and interact with customers in a very positive way, and much, much more. They have taught me as much as I have taught them.

Here’s a wacky question. What would your hypothetical three biggest wishes for the future be?

Wacky, is it?

Well, my first wish would be for Chagall to be on top despite the many challenges and threats (both friendly and unfriendly) that continue to beset us.

My second wish would be to be content with what has been achieved and improve on quality.

My third wish would be to be in good health for me to carry the Chagall Flag for many, many years to come.

All three wishes are to do with the present, and more pertinently the future. They are as valid as they were when I first formed them in the back of my mind a long time ago.

What are your current plans and your (not so distant) future plans?

Currently, to enhance our skills and experiences as those are what make actual and prospective customers appreciate. How can we achieve that? By transforming ourselves to a truly top-end professional personal care service.

With regard to the not so distant future, our plan would be to progressively educate people about the fact that this is a noble profession and that’s why there are top end salons that cater to their demands here and there.

We would like also to encourage our children to take a second look at this profession, to not belittle it and consider it as beneath their dignity. That has everything to do with sweeping aside prejudice and preconceived mindsets and I believe we can do it, if we set our hearts and minds to it.

Any words of wisdom or points to ponder, looking back?

Always be yourself, right within the image you have created for yourself, and never forget those who have been in your life and career. I have stuck to that credo. It’s worked wonders, I can tell you that much.

Letting Kids Learn At Their Pace

Christianity refers to children as a heritage. Islam guarantees the rights of a child. Buddhism calls for parents to bless children instead of worrying about them. Hindus believe that children are a God given gift. Even in the secular world the importance placed on a child has and will always be of the highest priority. The Declaration of the Rights of the Child is an international document promoting child rights, drafted by Eglantyne Jebb and adopted by the League of Nations in 1924, and adopted in an extended form by the United Nations in 1959.

Yet, we as the older generation more often than not fail to understand our children. We forget that we were once them and our expectations of these little ones are sometimes beyond what we could achieve ourselves. We do not give them the life of a child and instead see them as pawns in a rat-race for survival, and at any cost expect them to succeed where we have often failed. Children nowadays know only of books and technology, cramped up in their rooms, heads buried in the latest device with no access to actual child’s play. We are letting them grow up a generation of introverts.

All children are special in their own way and require a great deal of understanding from an adult in order to flourish and reach their true potential. But all of this has to be done at the individual pace of each child and not at the whim and fancy of the adults surrounding him or her. Nilu Perera has been championing the cause of letting children be themselves for many years. Nilu has always loved children, but her deep desire to love all children unconditionally first stemmed while she was a volunteer at the Art & Craft Unit at the Chithra Lane School for Special Children.

Nilu first started off her education in her chosen field with a Diploma in Child Psychology from the American College of Higher Education. She then went on to obtain a Diploma in Special Needs Education from the Ladies’ College Department of Vocational Studies. She also went on to obtain an MSc in Applied Psychology from the Coventry University in the UK. But perhaps her greatest achievement is “At My Pace”, a safe haven for children with special needs.

Located within Nilu’s own home, “At My Pace” focuses on integrating children with special needs in to society. Fourteen young teachers with a special gift of working with children and loving them unconditionally assist Nilu in her cause. The centre is open to children with all kinds of special needs whether it is physical disabilities, learning difficulties or psychological issues, and currently works with about 50 children inclusive of those who require remedial help while studying in regular schools.

Nilu explains that her school is essentially divided in to two sections where the morning hours (between 9-12) are spent with children who have special needs. A typical day involves general conversation to increase memory, fine motor skills activities, and activities to enhance concentration and attention, academic activities for reading, writing and numbers, music, arts and crafts, outdoor activities and snack time. The schedule also includes taking the kids out on field trips periodically to let them experience society and build their social skills. However, the main focus is on letting each child comprehend and perform at his or her own pace. “There is no pressure to perform or keep up with the pace of other children. What we do is support each child to learn and become independent”, she says.

During the afternoon hours, children who are students at regular schools but require extra help make their way to the centre. Teachers work on areas such as improving concentration and reducing exam-related stress and anxiety. “What we do is not extra tuition. Sometimes children are identified and cornered in schools and even by their own families as slow learners without even looking in to the root cause of the problem. The issue sometimes is that these children are so stressed out with the pressure to perform and all they need is a guiding hand and a little bit of help to make learning fun again”, Nilu explains.

Having also worked at special needs units at Room to Bloom and Alethea International School as a special needs teacher, and a consultant at Ninewells Hospital and the Colombo South Teaching Hospital, Nilu is deeply concerned about the way in which the education system in Sri Lanka still does not pay enough attention on the proper education and integration of special needs children in to the system. Another one of her greatest worries is how some parents with special needs children or children with learning difficulties are still apprehensive about accepting that their child may need help. “Sometimes the biggest barrier in getting the right education to these children is their own parents and families. Although the social stigma surrounding special needs children is much better than what it used to be a few decades ago, parents are still reluctant to accept the facts simply for the fear of what society would say. My prayer daily is that we all get over this and give all children the love that they need.”

As a single parent, Nilu has also passed on her deep love for children to her daughter. She also works tirelessly to inculcate the same values in her teachers at “At My Pace” and teachers she trains at special workshops conducted for primary school teachers. “It is imperative that children who need assistance are identified early on and remedial help is given to them in the proper manner. This is why especially primary teachers in schools need to be trained and equipped to work with a child with special needs within their own classroom instead of cornering the child”.

“Every child is special and with love and compassion anything is possible”, says Nilu who has and continues to reach out to children who otherwise would wither away unnoticed and unloved.

At My Pace Information

Address: 146/15 Havelock Road, Colombo 5

Contact Number: +94755304050

Email: nilu888perera@gmail.com

Website: http://www.atmypace.org/

Sydney: beautiful harbour city

Sitting on one of the largest natural harbours in the world, Australia’s first city has great natural beauty, enhanced by the artifices of its denizens.

Sydney was founded, as the convict colony of Botany Bay, in 1788. Captain Cook, who came upon it in 1770 and been impressed by the lushness of the vegetation. The convicts who laboured there took a decidedly less upbeat view of the colony. Today, however, it is Cook’s rather than the convicts’ opinion that has stood the test of time. Sydney is without doubt one of the loveliest cities in the world. Built around the natural harbour known as Port Jackson (named by Cook for an obscure naval commissioner), it combines the magnificence of nature with the attractions of human-built edifices. The soaring skyscrapers, captured in the Matrix film trilogy, of the Central Business District (the commercial heart of Sydney) make a modernist counterpoint to the low-rise residential areas, the parks and the harbour.

Sydney Opera House

The Sydney Opera House is the world’s most recognisable landmark, an icon of both Sydney and of Australia as a whole – its location on Bennelong Point making it a focal point of the harbour. The World Heritage site was built in the Expressionist style, as a multi-venue performing arts centre – host to Opera Australia, Sydney Symphony, Australian Chamber Orchestra, Australian Ballet and Sydney Theatre Company. It has a number of venues, such as the 2,700-seat Concert Hall, with its high vaulted ceiling and timber panelling, and the 1,500-seat Joan Sutherland Theatre. There is also a spectacular open-air forecourt, with fantastic views of the harbour and the Sydney Harbour Bridge (to which it is adjacent). It is Sydney’s most visited tourist site, and there are guided tours, some of them especially for children and families.

Sydney Harbour Bridge

Until the Opera House was built, Sydney Harbour Bridge, crossing the harbour between Sydney and the North Shore, was the city’s major landmark. It provides remarkable views of the harbour, and the best are from the top of its arches – it has been climbed by three million people. The climbs are guided by experienced Climb Leaders, who prepare visitors for climbing and entertain them on the climb with informative tales. There are a variety of tours available, including daytime, twilight and night-time ascents. Children are allowed and need pay slightly less than adults.

Parks

Hyde Park is quite different from its namesake in London. The oldest public park in Australia, it is conveniently situated for the city centre and a good place for walking, playing, meditating, viewing the bird life which flourishes there, or just sitting. At its centre is the Sandringham Garden, created to celebrate the intended visit of King George VI, and now a memorial to the death of that monarch on the eve of the visit. At the southern end are the ANZAC Memorial and the Pool of Reflection, flanked by poplar trees, reminders of the River Somme in France. At the north end is the Archibald Fountain, a water feature composed of a number of statues from the Greek myths.

North of Hyde Park is another vast urban park, the Domain, the major attraction of which is the Royal Botanical Gardens, founded in 1816, the oldest in the southern hemisphere. The Cadi Jam Ora (Aboriginal garden and settler garden), Rainforest Walk, Rare and Threatened Plants Garden, Australian Native Rockery, Succulents Garden and the Fernery are must visits. Stroll along Mrs Macquarie’s Bushland Walk, beside Woolloomoolo Bay, to Lady Macquarie’s Chair, which affords a wonderful view of the harbour.

Museums

Adjacent to the park is the Hyde Park Barracks Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where convicts were once boarded. It is a must-see for families with children, with its exhibits, reconstructions , and especially the stories of rats, which are sure to grab their imagination. The Powerhouse Museum, close to the centre of Sydney is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences. Because of its unique internal arrangements (it is located in an old power station), it is possible to look from various directions at its 120,000 exhibits, providing a delightful educational experience.

Port Jackson

The biggest attraction in Sydney is of course its natural harbour. This can be seen from a number of vantage points around it. The best panorama is from Bradley’s Head, and close-by Taronga Zoo – where the cable cars provide superb vistas. The entrance to Port Jackson can be viewed from the Arabanoo Lookout or Middle Head. These are all contained within Sydney Harbour National Park, which is a great place for discovering bush wildlife, observing Aboriginal rock-drawings, exploring nature, walking or picnicking. The best way to see Port Jackson at sea level is by the Sydney Ferry, by which it is also possible to get to a variety of destinations. During the Vivid festival, in May and June every year, the Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge and features in Darling Harbour and elsewhere are lit up with brilliant visual displays. Throughout the year, there are fantastic fireworks displays over Sydney Harbour. All of which make the Harbour City experience an unforgettable one.

Cuisine

Sydney is a town for eating out, from the bookshop cafes, where you can read while sipping your tea and eating your cake, to the best in fine dining and seafood on the abandoned jetties of the seafront. Australian cuisine has been influenced heavily by immigration and Sydney offers a fully representative menu. Meat pies were the traditional Australian dishes, but their popularity has declined. Traditional fish and chips are available, best at food outlets at the Sydney Fish Market, which serve seafood straight off the boat. For variation, try calamari and chips. There are cultural enclaves where ethnic cuisine may be had, for example Chinatown, where one may experience Yum Cha traditional tea-tasting with Dim Sum dumplings; Haberfield, where the best Italian food can be consumed; Marrickville for Greek and Vietnamese food; and Auburn for Turkish and traditional Iranian. Lebanese restaurants are ubiquitous and serve some of the best kebabs and pizzas.

Whight & Co Café – Delectable Breakfast and Coffee

If you are someone who is serious about your coffee then we are almost a 100% sure that you have already been to Whight & Co. They opened for business last year in March and have made quite a name for themselves with their locally grown and brewed Ruby Harvest coffee.

Esteem frequents this cafe as it is spacious, serves amazingly good coffee and their breakfast is to die for. They commence business every morning at 7.30am and they close at 11pm. They aren’t just a breakfast café, they have a full menu and they serve breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, juices, alcohol, cocktails, desserts and of course coffee.

Loated at the corner of Aloe Avenue and Marine Drive, this is probably one of the most beautiful views available at any café in the city. We usually get a lot of work done here in the mornings while enjoying the view of the Indian ocean and the trains rushing by.

We have tasted everything on their coffee menu; espressos, cappuccinos, lattes, mochas, frappes, caramel lattes, cold drip coffees, Vietnamese iced coffee and their signature pour over coffee. The coffee is strong and gives you an instant caffeine boost. All their coffee is priced between Rs. 300 to Rs. 480. This is extremely affordable compared to other international brands in the city and sometimes if you’re there for more than a few hours you could enjoy a second cuppa joe without feeling too guilty.

Their breakfast menu is great. They’ve got Eggs Benedict, Croque Monsieur, Chili Scramble, Two Eggs Any Style, Sri Lankan Breakfast (String Hoppers and Chicken Curry), Ham and Cheese Croissant and a few other items. All their breakfast items are priced between Rs. 600 to Rs. 750 and the portions are very big. When we have breakfast here, we always skip lunch because that is how full you will feel after devouring your brekkie.

We love the Eggs Benedict, it is without a doubt the best Eggs Benny in the city. Two perfectly soft poached eggs on ham, served with a grilled tomato, rocket leaves, a large hash brown and two slices of thick cut toast. Eggs Benedict is traditionally served with Hollandaise sauce however here, they serve it with a Béarnaise sauce. We usually ask them to substitute the ham with bacon and it becomes the most indulgent thing you could ever eat for breakfast.

Another of our favourites is their Croque Monsieur which is essentially a ham and cheese sandwich coated in Béchamel and toasted till the cheese is melted and becomes gooey. It’s served with two grilled tomatoes and a generous helping of rocket leaves, we are partial towards rocket so it won’t come as a surprise that we love this meal as well.

In order for us to tackle the Chili Scramble we have to be quite hungry and work up an appetite as it is three eggs scrambled with chives, onions and red chili, a hash brown, three rashers of bacon, a beef sausage, tomato relish and two slices of thick cut toast. Absolutely indulgent and so tasty, fills you right up and you will feel a bit guilty for eating so much. Don’t let that stop you though!

If you want something healthy they do have a Fruit Platter for Rs. 300 which is a mix of mango, banana, papaya and pineapple. We have it on the rare occasion that we decide we want something healthy for breakfast.

Whight and Co have definitely made a name for themselves in Colombo and it is our favourite place for coffee and breakfast in the city.

The service is the only thing that is inconsistent here. It has been a problem since they opened almost 2 years ago and we really wish the management can address this. Sometimes we have to motion them over to take our orders, bring the bill or even request them to take away our mugs and dishes once we are done with our meal.

Our overall rating of Whight and Co is as follows:

Ambiance: 8/10

Food: 8/10

Coffee: 9.5/10

Service: 5/10

Portion Size: 9/10

Value for Money: 9/10

Words and pictures by Surovi Salgado

Get With The Flow!

I’m no stranger to Hilton Residencies; I’ve spent many a day drowning my sorrows at the bar contemplating the meaning of life and suffering an existential crisis. At that time Hilton Residencies needed a facelift and I had to get my life in order.

On a serious note, it was about time that Hilton Residencies got its act together, and what better way to do that than to come up with a brand-spanning new restaurant called Flow. It goes without saying that Colombo is saturated with plenty of restaurants and hotels; however, with the taste buds of customers forever evolving, it would come as no surprise that nearly all these establishments have found out that they need to innovate their menus if they are to keep customers coming back for more.

Not that people seem to be tired of the usual buffet suspects — think Cinnamon Grand, Cinnamon Lakeside, Kingsbury, and Mount Lavinia; but who’s going to say No to another buffet fiesta? I ended up at the Flow with two of my friends for the Sunday buffet; it didn’t disappoint. The price was steep — no surprise there (LKR 13,000 odd for three with drinks; ok, I admit it — I had a few beers, but, hey, that’s what guys do). Yet it must be said that this certainly was a Sunday lunch that was a feast for your eyes and your taste buds.

The thing with Colombo is that you’re bound to bump into quite a few familiar faces; some you genuinely want to say Hello to, while the rest you either pretend they didn’t exist or you them give a fake smile that are Disney-like in proportions, and remind yourself to visit Katharagama armed with a few coconuts hoping you can plead for some divine retribution. (But I digress; let’s stick with the buffet.)

Trust me on this — there was plenty of food; cuisine from countries such as India, Sri Lanka, Japan, China and Italy were well represented. I had them all. I ate so much that I felt my innards grew fins and were swimming in a sea of food. It’s impossible at this juncture to tell you about every single dish, but what I will say is that they served a Black Pork Curry that was to die for. The Sushi was a-okay, but to be honest, I’ve had better. Other noteworthy mentions would be the Roast Pork and a heavenly combination of Roast Chicken wrapped in Bacon. It was Valhalla for those who love the Paleo lifestyle. Hell, it was paradise for those who just adore food.

So was it all good? It was; the service was a bit lacking (I had to remind the waiters a few times to bring my beer) but this may be due to the fact that the whole place was packed with people. I’ll tell you what was better, though — it was the dessert spread. The usual suspects — Chocolate Mousse, Passionfruit Mousse, Waffles, Ice Cream, Ice Cream Kottu, Fruit Salad, Caramel Pudding — were well represented; however, what really took the cake (pun very much intended) was the Chocolate Marquise. This dessert was just an orgasm on your tongue; so says my taste buds.

I suppose what really was a first for me was the fact that this buffet also offered Dim Sum. In all my buffet journeys, I’ve never come across anyone serving Dim Sum. It also needs to be said that besides a few lapses in service, the staff were very very obliging and were eager to please; most even wore that charming Lankan smile that Sri Lankans are well known for; this seems to be a quality that is somewhat lacking in other establishments.

All in all, I can truly say that this is certainly a restaurant that needs to be paid a visit at least once. It shouldn’t come as a surprise that I’m a frequent visitor to this newly revamped and refurbished establishment; the gastronomical journey is one that’s promising and ultimately quite promising, too.

Flamingo House

History is sketchy for those who never left family behind.

Stories get juicier in the telling so this may be fact or fiction – you be the judge of that. What we do know is this: A love story is best concocted like a beautifully imaginative culinary delight, because not always does it pan out to be what we want it to be unless spiced up with fiery spices, the bitterness of a tropical sun kissed lime and pan fried with the milk drawn from the loins of healthy coconuts!

Welcome to the fable of Sir Alfred Clarke of the Fernham Estate, Buckinghamshire, England. Knighted by the monarch for his contribution towards horticulture, Sir Clarke was a close friend of John Nash who was commissioned to build the Royal Pavilion in Brighton and remodel Buckingham Palace. Nash used Sir Clarke to bring in the many beautiful and exotic tropical foliage including the birds of paradise that still roam free amongst the castles of England. Sir Clarke was recognized by the government of His Majesty George IV and was awarded a senior position amongst the recruits being sent to the colonies.

In 1822, he landed on the golden shores of Sri Lanka and thus sealed the fate of his life and heart. Settled in the cool hillside of Ceylon, he studied and mastered the tea trade. During his weekly strolls along the cool hillside, he met Satyavati, the daughter of a local tradesman Murghan, who supplied the estate with its weekly fruit, vegetables and spices. It was at this point that Sir Clarke’s desires were roused and passion seeped into every crevice of his heart.

One dreary monsoon morning, Satyavati arrived on the estate devastated and drenched. She had walked all night to get there. Sir Clarke hurriedly invited her into the warmth of an empty tea factory. Upon inquiry, he found out that Murghan’s body had been found washed up on the banks of a river near their home. No one knew how.
In the years which followed Satyavati carried out her father’s trade which proved to be immensely difficult. She was not only an unmarried young woman in a man’s world, but also an only child with no other relatives for support. Clarke, unable to hide his affection for her any longer, declares his love to Satyavati. For fear of any repercussions and shunning from her local community she refuses to entertain any such thoughts. She is however unable to deny his continued kindness towards her and eventually, her heart’s craving for him.
During a secret liaison to his beachside cottage, Satyavati tells Clarke of a recurring dream she is having about her father on the banks of a river and a dark shadow that follows him. Yet the moment the shadow gets too close, a flock of pink flamingos would fly in and carry him away to safety.

Realizing that a secret life was the only way he could love Satyavati, Clarke buys a property in the hills of Lindulla overlooking a river. An an only child himself, all his belongings and family heirlooms are brought to Lindulla from the Fernham Estate in Buckinghamshire to replicate his life style in England. He then proceeds to recreate the lake in Satyavati’s dream on this property. A flock of flamingos are brought from India along with twenty workers who do not speak the local language.

This would become their hideaway for the next 22 years. In 1843, during a trip to England with Satyavati, she becomes violently ill and passes away in his Buckinghamshire home. Sir Clarke returns to Ceylon with a broken heart and spends the next seventeen years in his Lindulla home, in complete isolation.

On the fourth of April 1844, Sir Clarke had a dream. He dreams of Satyavati at the lake with her father surrounded by thousands of Flamingos. He runs to her and when he gets close to her she turns and stretches her arms out to him. He holds her tight and says he will never let her go again. Ever. She looks into his eyes, kisses his head and says “we will meet again. Never forget what I told you”.

The very next day, Clarke orders for the name on the gates of the Lindulla estate to change from Fernham Estate to ‘Flamingo House’. Sir Clarke passed away in 1861, on that very same night, the flock of flamingos left the lake never to return again.

This is the myth that gave birth to the concept of Flamingo House. Esteem magazine has visited Flamingo House several times and we would like to share our experience. They opened in September this year and are located at No. 58A Horton Place, Colombo 07.

From the moment you walk in till you leave you will be enchanted by the décor and the ambiance. The other thing that will strike you, is the attention to detail and the service at this restaurant. Their service is truly exceptional. Friendly managers and wait staff that know their menu thoroughly and are able to make recommendations to first time diners. We must make special mention of their mixologist as well, he is a treat to watch and the cocktails he makes are very good.

We commenced our meal with an appetizer platter consisting of Soft Shell Crab, Duck Crepes and Isso Wade. The soft shell crab was divine and we really enjoyed the duck crepes, the isso wade was good but we would have preferred if the wade was a bit softer.

On a previous visit we tried their Seafood Laksa and it was phenomenally good. Generous amounts of cuttlefish, prawn and fish balls in a spicy and creamy coconut broth. Decadent and delicious, wish they would consider offering a larger portion to be ordered as a main as we would definitely order it on our next visit.

The assorted dim sum platter is another one of our firm favourites. An assortment of meat and vegetarian dim sum, is great as a snack for when you’re having drinks before your meal or waiting for those notoriously late friends to arrive.

For mains we tried the Norwegian Salmon, Pork Tenderloin, Calamari Stuffed with Minced Lamb and the Modha with Miso. The Norwegian Salmon was definitely the best, served on a bed of garlicky spinach and served with oyster sauce. The salmon was absolutely fresh and it almost melted in our mouths. The oyster sauce and spinach made an excellent combination and this has become our favourite dish at Flaming House. The Calamari Stuffed with Minced Lamb is served with a cup of jasmine rice and a Thai style papaya salad – we loved this one too, but the portion is a bit on the small side therefore we would encourage you to order an appetizer if you want to have the calamari as your main. The Pork Tenderloin was good and the portion was quite generous, served with your choice of baked or mashed potato, we quite liked it.

The Modha with Miso was a very clever dish and this too was served with jasmine rice and a miso sauce which really did justice to the Modha. Fresh white fish steamed and grilled to perfection. If you’re looking for something tasty and healthy this is the dish we’d recommend.

Something we really enjoyed at Flamingo House was their cocktails. They’ve taken classic cocktails and given it their own spin. For example the Gimlet has been renamed Kalinga’s Gimlet and it is served in a teacup and garnished with mint leaves. Another cocktail that caught our eye while perusing the menu was the Flamingo Rosa which is their house special. A classic raspberry mojito and instead of rum they’ve used vodka. Almost all their cocktails are priced between Rs. 700 and 950 excluding taxes.

When we usually dine at Flamingo House we are quite full after appetizers, mains and cocktails and on the rare occasion that we have more space in our tummies we always order the Chocolate Biscuit Pudding with Kahlua which is a Gerard Mendis special. This is served with a generous dollop of whipped cream and garnished with strawberries, we prefer to have the cream on the side as this dessert is rather indulgent by itself and doesn’t really need the whipped cream but if you love whipped cream why not indulge every now and then!

We love Flamingo House and it is a lovely place to celebrate a special occasion, a promotion or to have some after work drinks. The ambiance is great, it almost makes you feel like you are not in Colombo. The mood is quirky and it has a great vibe.

On average a meal for two people with appetizers, a main each, two cocktails and a dessert to share would cost Rs. 4,000 per person.

Our overall rating of the place is as follows:

Food: 7/10

Ambiance: 9/10

Service: 9/10

Portion Size: 6.5/10

Value for Money: 7/10

The next time you’re looking for a new place to try out in the city, call them and make a reservation before you decide to swing by. They can be found on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flamingohouselk/

Words by: Surovi Salgado and Aaron Seth

Italian Duo bring Authentic and Rare Truffles to Waters Edge

Chef Simone Gobbo grew up in the Italian countryside and was introduced to authentic Italian cuisine at an early age. As his love for the distinct ingredients that make-up some of the world’s most famous dishes grew, he began to explore and create signature dishes of his own. Many years later, he now finds himself in a little paradise isle off the Indian subcontinent called Sri Lanka. Today, Chef Simone together with his food and wine consultant partner Leonardo Ricci are the masterminds behind the authentic Italian restaurant “Pranzo” at Waters Edge.

Returning to Sri Lanka in early November, the duo together with the management of Waters Edge out together a unique event featuring what has been dubbed the most expensive ingredient in the kitchen-the white truffle. The “Truffles & Truffles” promotion which was a special evening of authentic dishes featuring rare White Truffles was held on the 5^th of November at The Link, Waters Edge, and was sold out to discerning and enthusiastic clientele.

Truffles which are essentially a unique variety of mushroom are usually found growing in close proximity to roots of several tree species including beech, poplar, oak, birch, hornbeam, hazel, and pine. The prized White Truffle is found only a few times a year mainly in the Langhe and Montferrat areas of northern Italy and, most famously, in the countryside around the cities of Alba and Asti. It is from these regions that the Waters Edge specially brought down truffles which offered local guests a truly gourmand experience.

White truffles were featured in such gastronomical delights as poached eggs served with white truffle, pumpkin soup with white truffle shavings, Prosecco and casatella D’Altamarca risotto, slow cooked beef chicks, leeks foam and crushed potatoes with white truffles and passion fruit meringue, vanilla mouse, almond and candied fruit sponge topped with white truffles for dessert. To add a touch of class to the evening, Sommelier and Consultant Leonardo used his refined knowledge of all things fine to couple the dishes with the perfect wines.

Commenting on the special promotion Waters Edge General Manager Rohan Fernandopulle noted, “Waters Edge is synonymous with novelty and this time around we introduced one of the most unique and sought after ingredients in global kitchens, the truffle. In keeping with our tradition to bring only the best to our guests, our ingredients were brought down especially from Italy and were used in dishes skillfully prepared by our culinary experts”.

Apart from this special promotion, Chef Simone and Leo are also responsible for the authentic menu that Pranzo showcases on a daily basis. Prawn ravioli, beef lasagna and a variety of traditional pizzas with not-so traditional toppings are some of the crowd favourites. Coupled with the plush interiors and stunning views that are synonymous with Waters Edge, Pranzo is perhaps one of the better Italian restaurants in town. With prices to match the level of service, the hotel

Tiesh celebrates the mystique of Black Silver with ‘Black Temptations’

With the forthcoming festive season literally around the corner, Tiesh, one of Sri Lanka’s leading contemporary jewellers proudly presents ‘Black Temptations’, a collection of exquisite black silver jewellery lavishly studded with precious and semi-precious Sri Lankan gem stones.

Says Ayesh De Fonseka, Director of Tiesh and the creative mind behind the collection, “The black rhodium plated 925 sterling silver collection presents itself in an amazing range of shades of grey … ranging from enigmatic deep dark greys to almost full black … bringing out an ephemeral element of illusion and mystique. Enhancing this mood and heightening the element of colour and fantasy is the delightful array of sparkling Sri Lankan gem stones which liberally embellish each piece of jewellery”.

‘Black Temptations’ is an enigmatic collection that inspires a kaleidoscope of moods in different people from cocktail to ‘glam-night-out’ and from casual to gala. It is a very sensory experience rooted in mystique. This unique collection both tantalises and appeals to the visual and creative sense of the discerning woman. It allures her with unique and one-of-a-kind pieces such as necklaces, bracelets, earrings, pendants and rings, each piece seamlessly complementing the other. Each piece also stands out strikingly, either singly or in an ensemble.

“Black Temptations is special in that it is also our very first major collection since we opened our state-of-the-art showroom at Duplication Road, opposite the Liberty Arcade earlier on this year. We’re very keen to take this collection to all segments of the market and have made it very price-friendly and very affordable thus appealing to all customer profiles, from mid-range to upper end”, De Fonseka added.

Adding to the uniqueness of Black Temptations is the novel experience where customers can sit with the highly experienced Tiesh jewellery designers and create their own pieces. “This, I’m firmly convinced, is very important to a woman where her self-designed piece becomes an extension of herself and literally becomes her alter-ego. There is a unique bond and one that lasts forever”, he affirmed.

The stones used in Black Temptations are all locally sourced and bring the best of Sri Lanka precious and semi-precious stones into focus. They have all predominantly come from Ratnapura, with a few from the Matale, and Kandy regions. Each stone, and then each piece, passes through the eagle-eye scrutiny of the De Fonseka Family which takes a personal interest from the purchasing of stones through the entire production process up to the finished product.

Tiesh is a highly focused family entrepreneurship with a three decade heritage of high quality jewellery and impeccable craftsmanship. Founder / Managing Director Lasantha De Fonseka and his wife Bryony are today joined by the second generation, daughter Thiyasha and their son Ayesh who ensure that every piece is unique and thus special.

Located at Duplication Road in Kollupitiya, opposite the Liberty Arcade, Tiesh is not only a jewellery store with a reputation to match. It is also an engaging and hands-on learning experience. A preferred destination by a large numbers of foreign visitors, it houses a gemological museum, a testing laboratory, an auditorium, a jewellery workshop and a replica of a gem mine which is a draw among both local and foreign clients.

Caption for PHOTO – Ayesh De Fonseka, Director of Tiesh explains the pieces to the media and the guests at the launch.

ORNELLA GUNESEKERE: BEAUTY THAT IS MORE THAN JUST SKIN DEEP

One of the brightest stars that illuminate the Sri Lankan Pageant Industry, Miss Grand Sri Lanka 2015 Ornella Gunesekera is the living embodiment of the power of faith.

Her eyes display the charm of a youth and the determination of one who understands the true meaning of life; seated comfortably at Breakfast in the Mount Lavinia Hotel, Ornella opens her heart out to Esteem Magazine about her life, beliefs and the long and persevering journey that got her to where she is today.

“My first fashion show was on 4^th December 2009. I was like, 16. It was at the Hilton,” she reminisces, adding that she was bundle of nerves in her first show. A self proclaimed ‘shy girl’ Ornella says that one of the main reasons that kept her in the modeling and pageant industry was energy rush that one gets on the ramp. “As a sport person, I know the feeling, the rush of adrenaline… I love that.”

In 2010, Ornella was given the opportunity to participate in Miss Sri Lanka for Miss Universe. Her striking beauty and intelligence was recognized by National Director for Miss Universe Rosita Wickremesinghe who nominated her as Sri Lanka’s entry for Miss Tourism International. Reliving those moments with a smile, Ornella adds that she was a ‘lost cause’ in a sea of well prepared contestants. “I didn’t know how to do my makeup and my hair. I went for this pageant in China and my roommate Ms Singapore did my hair and makeup for me,” she gushes. Nonetheless she was able to gain valuable experience and insight into the life of a pageant contestant.

As representative of Sri Lanka, Ornella was awarded the second chance to hone her skills and shine the light of Lanka on an international platform at the Miss Tourism pageant in 2011. “That was when I realized that I really like pageants. There you get to showcase your personality and speak with people and you learn about different cultures, languages and different perspectives… people are so different from one country to another and I really love that.” Ornella’s etiquette and respect for her fellow contestants won her the title of Miss Friendship in the pageant and further placed her in the Top 15 amidst 54 representatives. Her third and final international pageant, Miss Grand International held earlier this year marks Ornella as one of the most successful contestants in the history of the Sri Lankan chapter. Placing Top 20 in the Swimsuit and National Costume categories, Ornella moved from strength to strength as she was placed in the Top 10 from 78 countries and further awarded the title of Miss Popularity. Her success speaks volumes about her attitude to life, and her never-say-die attitude is to be admired.

Despite her love for the industry, Ornella is quick to proclaim that as a young teenager growing up amidst a host of male cousins, she never really intended to be a model or a beauty queen. “I was a tomboy. I am the only girl in my whole family, and so I grew up playing basketball, watching wrestling…” An avid sports player in her younger days, Ornella states that her one true passion was to excel in sports, adding that she especially loved to play basketball.

Little did she imagine then that she would have to face some of the darkest years of her life; “I injured my spine when I was 14. I had a fall during one of the basketball games and the vertebral column slipped and today I have two rods and four screws in my spine.” Her honest but shocking revelation is met with a moment of silence and I begin to comprehend the immense mental and physical suffering she must have endured in the flower of her life. “It was horrible because for seven years I suffered in pain and I was almost paralyzed. I lost all feeling in one leg. The doctor said that my brain is giving the signals, but my leg didn’t move… it was really scary.”

Speaking of life after the incident Ornella says that was forced to give up all of her sporting activities, and be extremely careful about her movements. “As far as working out, it was just physiotherapy for my back and walking. For two years I was obviously upset. I went through a bit of depression and I had to be homeschooled.” Taking a moment to explain Ornella says that the accident made her realize how precious life is; being in place of absolute despair, with the crushing weight of darkness engulfing her in its totality, Ornella was able to find the light of faith within sher heart. “It’s when you are broken that you really discover who you are and who God is,” she states emphatically. When I was a gold medalist and excelling at sports, I felt that I can do anything, I am powerful… but God made me realize the truth. My spine is the turning point for my realization.”

A firm believer in the formative power manifest in the spoken word, Ornella surrounded herself with positive affirmations in a bid to escape her depressive state. “I made sure that I put positive things around me and I made sure that I used colours. I am very visual, so I wrote things out and I put them on my wall.” Ornella now realizes that life is all about seeking the joy in everything. “I look at everything and I see life in it. Because I believe in the power of words, all these quotes helped me. I find myself believing them. When you read or hear something, somehow, it can affect you.”

Walking the ramp in high heels isn’t always an easy option for Ornella, who was in constant pain for a long while after her surgery. Going against doctor’s advice, she explains how she recovered to walk the ramp at her pageants; “even the doctor couldn’t explain it. There are only four stages of any medical condition and I was at stage 3+; the doctor said that I should be paralyzed, but I walked.” In the pageant this year, Ornella was determined to show her versatility as a contestant and despite her inability to bend or twist due to the screws in her spine. “I don’t want to be treated differently; a lot of times I have been discriminated and even at the pageant I didn’t get selected for the dance number at first… but I practiced all night and the next day they did the audition again and I ended up being in the middle of the stage!” The value of hard work not to be underestimated, Ornella was able to persevere with unwavering passion and devotion.

Her words and actions reveal the true desires of her heart. Citing her accident and the time spent in medical care of watchful nurses and doctors as her inspiration Ornella states that her ideal job is in the field of service; as a woman with a new lease on life, she believes in sharing her experiences and her story with those in need. “I help the doctor who did my surgery… as a person who has made through many spine surgeries I answer people’s questions and try to help them through it. It’s a counseling service.” Speaking further she adds, “I like to work with customers and to make sure they have everything taken care of. I want to have a profession where every day is an act of service.”

Displaying wisdom beyond her years, Ornella acknowledges the heavy responsibility of her role with the following words; “I’ve been in two places in my heart; one is do I want to be a person who has the voice who speak for others? And then on the other side I am scared because if I do something wrong, then someone else can be mislead.” To be held accountable for every word and action can be tiring, and yet Ornella remains unfazed in the magnitude of it all. “I would say, don’t look to be someone. Do what you do every day to your best. If it’s good, you will get noticed. If you commit to something do it with a full heart. . You can’t get into this industry if you want to be popular, because you will get discouraged. I always say remember why you started,” she advises, unveiling the secret to her success.

In a country where the Pageant Industry is judged with a conservative viewpoint, Ornella has managed to hold her own with a high level of professionalism and integrity. The road has rarely been smooth and yet she is able to shake off meaningless negativity with a simple wave of her faith. She lives her life with a thankful heart, and each day Ornella celebrates her life and appreciates the beauty in everything she perceives… and it is this beautiful attitude is what sets her apart as one of the brightest stars of the future.