A CHIC FESTIVE AFFAIR!
As the holiday season gets into full swing, we find ourselves embracing the festive spirit – and blending sophistication, warmth, and the excitement of Christmas and the New Year. Living is privileged to feature a number of star personalities from diverse fields such as fashion, sports, actors and business to help you celebrate this special time of year.
They embody the essence of the festive season and share not only their holiday traditions but also the personal stories that make it special for them. And their journeys reflect a celebration of warmth and unity, and remind us of the true meaning of the season: togetherness, family and love.
Our ensemble includes Nushara Atapattu (former Miss Sri Lanka and model, and etiquette and deportment coach); Dhananjaya de Silva (our national Test cricket captain); Reshalee De Silva (model and digital creator); Shiyan Jayaweera (theatre personality and Director Marketing of Hemas Consumer Brands); Gamya Wijayadasa (former Miss Sri Lanka for Miss World, actress and entrepreneur); Devashrie de Silva (singer, songwriter, actress and recording artiste); Yannik Kumara and Kaya Daluwatte (both rising golf stars); Kyle Abeysinghe (Olympian, national swimmer, Executive Director of SwimAmerica-Sri Lanka, Head Age Group Coach of Killer Whale Aquatics and mental health advocate) and Rashiprabha Sandeepani (actress).
So as you flip through these exciting pages, step into the world of Sri Lankan stars and discover how they celebrate the magic of the holiday season!
NUSHARA ATAPATTU
Q: What’s one holiday tradition from your childhood that you have passed down to your children?
A: One tradition we have kept alive since my childhood is hanging up stockings. As kids, we would hang our stockings and on Christmas morning, they’d be magically filled. We always believed it was Santa Claus. Even as we grew up, we never let go of this tradition.
Now I’ve passed this on to my children. Despite all of us growing older, we still love it. We enjoy picking out small thoughtful (and sometimes silly) items to stuff the stockings with. On Christmas morning, the first thing we do is check to see what’s inside. And occasionally, we sneak in a prank or two for a good laugh!
Q: And what is your trick for juggling holiday prep, shopping and family time without feeling overwhelmed?
A: Christmas involves a lot of planning especially when you have a family. You become a master juggler, making sure that everything runs smoothly as if it’s no trouble at all.
My secret is preparing well in advance since Christmas is a big deal for us. I’ve thought months ahead about what I want to do this year.
I like to change my theme every year, and play with different colour schemes and decorations. If I spot something that catches my eye at any time during the year, I pick it up and store it in a special box I keep only for Christmas. And if I see something that would be perfect for a specific person, I grab it then and there.
Some even call me ‘Mrs. Claus’ because I’m always thinking about Christmas.
Q: What’s your favourite part of getting ready for Christmas?
A: What I love most about Christmas is the sense of togetherness it brings. There’s no point in creating all these wonderful experiences if there’s no one to share them with. It’s about having people around me, and spreading that feeling of warmth and joy. That’s what makes it truly special for me.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world for the festive season, where would it be – and why?
A: The location doesn’t really matter. I grew up in Canada so I’m used to picturesque and snowy white Christmases – they’re beautiful and hold a special place in my heart.
But my ideal Christmas is wherever my whole family is – that’s what makes it perfect for me.
SEASONAL FAVOURITES
TRADITION
Setting up the Christmas tree and my husband placing the star at the top at the end of decorating
DECORATION
It changes every year – when I was younger, my mother had pretty little fairies and a very skinny Santa Claus that we would play with
CHARACTER
Jesus Christ – the reason for the season
MOVIE
The Grinch – the new cartoon version is quite funny
The Holiday is also a fun Christmas romance movie
FOOD
I snack on a lot of different things but if I had to choose a favourite, it would be the mulled wine I make
DEFINITIONS
CHRISTMAS
Is about the birth of my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ – and the hope and peace He brings
LOVE
Is what you do for others that costs you something
2024
Was a year to prepare for 2025
NEW YEAR
Will be incredible as it brings new hope
HAPPINESS
Is having all the people that I love the most around me
CHRISTMAS WISH LIST
Everyone finds the peace and hope for the future that Jesus Christ brought
An end to human trafficking
An end to needless war and conflict
NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS
Try something new for myself
Read more as busyness has taken over
Spend more quality time with my family
Hair and makeup
SALON TOBE
DHANANJAYA DE SILVA
Q: If you could have one famous cricketer as a guest at Christmas dinner, who would it be and why?
A: I would invite Virat Kohli because he’s the best cricketer in the world right now. I’ve shared some memorable moments with him but having him over for Christmas dinner would be something special.
Q: Which teammate would most likely eat all the snacks before the party starts?
A: That would be Dimuth Karunaratne – he has a sweet tooth and a love for junk food.
Q: And what Christmas miracle would you like to see happen next year?
A: Without a doubt, it would be winning the 2023-2025 ICC World Test Championship. Reaching the final and claiming the championship would be an incredible achievement.
Q: Which country would you like to play against in a Boxing Day Test?
A: I would like to play at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) and my ideal opponent would be Bangladesh since I have a strong record against them.
SEASONAL FAVOURITES
TRADITION
Visiting family and exchanging gifts
DECORATION
Christmas trees
CHARACTER
Santa Claus
MOVIE
The Home Alone series – I’m sure the reruns have already begun on TV
FOOD
Christmas cake – but I’ll only have a tiny piece because I have to maintain my physique
DEFINITIONS
CHRISTMAS
A beautiful white Christmas – even though we don’t experience it in Sri Lanka
LOVE
Family
2024
Was good to me and things only kept getting better
NEW YEAR
Hoping it too will be a good one
HAPPINESS
My family
CHRISTMAS WISH LIST
Winning the 2023-2025 ICC World Test Championship
Maintaining a good level of fitness especially as I grow older
Spending quality time with family and loved ones
NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS
To continue playing good cricket
Taking care of my family
Taking better care of my health
RESHALEE DE SILVA
Q: If Santa needed a rebrand, how would you style him for a modern look?
A: This Santa Claus hits the gym – he’s toned with a neatly trimmed beard. He wears a white polo shirt tucked in with a black belt featuring gold hardware, well creased burgundy straight-legged pants and classic black loafers.
Q: What’s the one fashion accessory you think everyone should have for the festive season?
A: Gold accessories – they can build up an outfit or you can just keep it simple and tone it down.
Q: And what’s your favourite indulgence at this time of year?
A: That would be breudher – you have to warm it up in the microwave, add some melted butter and enjoy it with a slice of cheese. And it’s got to be Perera & Sons breudher.
Q: What is the gift you secretly hope to receive this season?
A: A holiday to the beach, some jewellery or a flight to Australia would be perfect. My sister lives in Melbourne so it would be wonderful to visit her.
SEASONAL FAVOURITES
TRADITION
After midnight mass, the entire family would gather at my grandmother’s house to exchange gifts and enjoy her delicious iced coffee; since her passing, the tradition has passed down to my father and now everyone gathers at our place
DECORATION
Sparrows – we have three sparrows that we put on the Christmas tree (they are for my two siblings and me)
CHARACTER
Nutcracker
MOVIE
How the Grinch Stole Christmas!
FOOD
Turkey with cranberry sauce
DEFINITIONS
CHRISTMAS
Family
LOVE
Understanding
2024
Experimental
NEW YEAR
Exciting
HAPPINESS
Friends
CHRISTMAS WISH LIST
Spend time with my best friend
Share Christmas with my close friends – I have a diverse multiethnic group of friends
A holiday on a beach Down South
NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS
Have more self-compassion
Be more comfortable in my skin and be myself
To try as many new things as I possibly can and not be held back by my own insecurities
Hair and makeup
TUTU’S BRIDAL BOUTIQUE
SHIYAN JAYAWEERA
Q: What’s the one lesson from this year that you will be carrying into the New Year?
A: Being grateful for what I have. We faced challenging times over the past few years as a nation. However, this year brought a sense of relief even if things aren’t perfect yet. We are no longer dealing with fuel and gas shortages, and overall we’re experiencing fewer hardships than before. As we end this year, gratitude is something I’m carrying forward into the next.
Q: If you had to host a holiday party for clients, what would be the theme?
A: That’s an interesting one – since we have had two elections this year, let’s go with the theme of dressing as your favourite politician! Elections have been the main topic for the last six months so it seems to be a fitting theme.
Q: Would you rather be Santa for a day or an elf behind the scenes?
A: I think I’m an elf working behind the scenes most of the time so I would love to be Santa for a day! He brings so much joy to people. It’s not only about how happy you make others but also about how it makes you feel. Santa is such a fantastic character to embody – so yes, I would definitely choose to be Santa for a day.
Q: And what Christmas miracle would you like to see happen in 2025?
A: Things are starting to ease up and the economy is definitely showing improvement. If inflation continues to stay low or be in the negative range that would be wonderful – especially with the Central Bank of Sri Lanka forecasting inflation to settle at five percent in the near term.
If the cost of living drops, it would be a small miracle and this will definitely support businesses. Overall, it’s encouraging to see the economy steadily recovering from a tough period and continuing on a positive path.
SEASONAL FAVOURITES
TRADITION
Decorating the Christmas tree
DECORATION
The angel on top of the tree
CHARACTER
The little drummer boy
MOVIE
A tossup between the Home Alone and the Die Hard series
FOOD
My grandmother’s chocolate biscuit pudding
DEFINITIONS
CHRISTMAS
Joy and togetherness
LOVE
Family and the people you share it with
2024
Was tough but got better
NEW YEAR
Brings new beginnings
HAPPINESS
Is about the people you share it with and spending time with loved ones
CHRISTMAS WISH LIST
Spend more time with loved ones
Travel more
Stop eating chocolate
NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS
Spending time with the people I love
Pause a little to enjoy life a bit more because we have been running a rat race for years
Try to be calm in spite of the daily rush
GAMYA WIJAYADASA
Q: What’s your go-to holiday outfit for Christmas?
A: It would be something classic and timeless – a modern spin on a classic style with a satin touch. For example, if it’s red, black or silver, I prefer a satin finish over the more common sequin look.
Q: And what is your must-have item for a festive season wardrobe that people often overlook?
A: A satin coord set – a nice pair of trousers and matching shirt. It’s classic and versatile, and you can wear it in a non-Christmassy way as well. It’s the kind of piece that you can keep in your wardrobe and wear multiple times.
A classic black or red dress works too – if you want to be more festive, a red dress is perfect. And by minimising the sparkle, it becomes something you can wear year-round.
Q: If you could style a celebrity’s holiday outfit, who would it be? And what would he or she wear?
A: I have admired Aishwarya Rai Bachchan for a long time. However, I’ve been a little disappointed with her style lately because in spite of her beauty and grace, she isn’t dressing well. She’s someone I’d love to style.
If I had the opportunity, I’d dress her in elegant and timeless pieces. At present, she seems to be going for a ‘more is more’ approach. However, I would minimise the details and let her natural beauty shine. Something simple, clean and classic would really highlight her elegance.
Q: What’s the most unique or inspiring gift you have received for Christmas?
A: My birthday is in December so most of the gifts I receive fall around the holiday season. While I can’t think of anything material that stands out, I’d say the best gift for me is the opportunity to travel in December. Give me an airline ticket and I will be incredibly happy.
SEASONAL FAVOURITES
TRADITION
Wholesome – it’s where your roots lie and part of your identity
DECORATION
A beautiful Christmas tree; I have enjoyed the festive season in other parts of the world as well, and the decor I saw while on holiday in South Korea was aesthetically minimal and not loud
CHARACTER
Jesus Christ
MOVIE
The Holiday
FOOD
I like a lot of the pastries and pies – especially pumpkin and rhubarb
DEFINITIONS
CHRISTMAS
Wholesome
LOVE
All-encompassing
2024
Eventful
NEW YEAR
Hopeful
HAPPINESS
Internal
CHRISTMAS WISH LIST
Good health for me and my loved ones
Achieving goals in my career as an actor and also opening my flagship store
Throw in a Celine bag!
NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS
To be more disciplined in terms of lifestyle as this year was hectic and chaotic – and it broke my usual routine and consistency
To be more productive – as I feel there’s so much more I can accomplish
To try and do the things that scare me – I tend to do everything but when something feels extremely intimidating, I pull back because I’m averse to taking risks
Hair and makeup
SALON TOBE
DEVASHRIE DE SILVA
Q: What’s your favourite Christmas song to sing and why?
A: In the Bleak Midwinter is a very old song; and while it might not hold the same relevance in Sri Lanka where we don’t experience winter, it holds personal significance for me.
I first sang it as a child during a carol service when I was in the UK. That experience sparked a deeper interest in music for me. Every time I sing this song, it brings a wave of nostalgia, and its beauty and meaning never fails to touch me deeply.
Q: If you could perform a Christmas duet with any artiste, who would it be?
A: When it comes to the holiday season, the first person who comes to mind is Michael Bublé. His songs are a signal that Christmas is around the corner.
I’m also a huge fan of Michael Jackson so he too would be on my list – I don’t mind whether it’s his music or even his ghost!
Q: What’s an unexpected place where you would love to perform a Christmas concert?
A: I would love to perform in Anuradhapura – but it shouldn’t be the typical Christmas concert. It has to break all boundaries and be a truly cultural and local experience.
The concert could feature local musical instruments. I would go about it in the most respectful and meaningful way, by connecting ideas, faith and roots.
Christ built bridges between people – and Christmas would be a beautiful time to celebrate solidarity.
Q: And what’s your most unique or memorable performance during the festive season?
A: The concert that was held on 1 December called A Classic Christmas with Billy and Devashrie is memorable. It holds a special place because it was a first for my husband Billy and I.
SEASONAL FAVOURITES
TRADITION
Exchanging gifts
DECORATION
Candles
CHARACTER
Rudolph – because I also have a shiny pointy nose like his!
MOVIE
Notting Hill
FOOD
Date and walnut cake
Rosemary roast potatoes
DEFINITIONS
CHRISTMAS
God’s unconditional love for humanity and the hope we have in Christ – the need to walk the talk
LOVE
The oxygen and pulse of humans – and the heart of Christmas
2024
A turning point for me and I’m grateful for what the year brought
NEW YEAR
Phenomenal, hopefully!
HAPPINESS
No drama: simple joys and authentic living
CHRISTMAS WISH LIST
Good health for me and my close ones
For the country to understand its potential and move towards a successful future
Realise some of my artistic dreams
NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS
Dedicate more time to quiet reflection
Prioritise fitness
Improve my sleep patterns
Hair and makeup
SALON TOBE
YANNIK KUMARA
Q: If you could play a round of holiday golf with any famous golfer, who would it be?
A: I would choose Bryson DeChambeau because who wouldn’t want to witness those monster drives in action? And I’d love to challenge him to a friendly competition – whoever hits the longest drive.
After that, I would love to learn about his unique approach to the game – that would make for a memorable round of holiday golf!
Q: What would you be most offended to receive as a Christmas gift – and why?
A: A gym membership! Nothing says ‘Merry Christmas’ quite like implying that I need to work off those holiday cookies.
Q: If you had to live in a holiday movie, which one would you choose?
A: I’d love to live in Home Alone. It would be fun to experience the danger and excitement that Kevin feels as he protects his home.
Q: And what’s your favourite Christmas song?
A: Jingle Bell Rock is my favourite because it’s upbeat and always gets everyone in the holiday spirit.
SEASONAL FAVOURITES
TRADITION
A big Christmas lunch with my family and friends, and my dogs Julius, Tiger, Lulu and Joshua
DECORATION
A DIY dog themed ornament for each of my dogs – our tree then turns into a canine gallery and I love it
CHARACTER
The Grinch – his transformation from grumpy to joyful is inspiring
MOVIE
Home Alone – it’s a classic! Watching Kevin outsmart the burglars makes me laugh every time and it’s a great reminder of the importance of family during the holidays
FOOD
Homemade roast lamb with stuffing – the ultimate centrepiece for our Christmas lunch
DEFINITIONS
CHRISTMAS
The birth of Christ is a time to reflect on the values of love, joy and togetherness; it’s also a special season that brings family and friends together, and gatherings that are filled with laughter and the spirit of giving!
LOVE
The unconditional bond I have with my dogs – they are always there to cheer me on
2024
A year of transformational growth both on and off the golf course
NEW YEAR
A chance for reflection, reset and renewal – the perfect opportunity to look back on the past year, evaluate my goals and set new intentions
HAPPINESS
An under par round of golf
CHRISTMAS WISH LIST
A ticket to the Masters – to experience one of the most prestigious golf tournaments live would be a dream come true
A Cane Corso puppy
A ski trip to the Alps would be incredible!
NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS
Enjoy more holidays – I want to travel more in 2025, explore new places and soak up different cultures
Get fit
Complete the final stage of CIMA (Chartered Institute of Management Accountants) – it’s a big step towards my career goals and I want to ensure that I stay on track!
KAYA DALUWATTE
Q: What is your family’s Christmas or New Year tradition?
A: Every Christmas morning, we visit one of my aunt’s homes for a cosy breakfast; and after that, we visit my grandparents and spend quality time with them. In the evening, we gather at another aunt’s house where all the cousins come together.
We light fireworks, exchange gifts, sing festive songs and enjoy a delicious dinner. The day always ends on a high note with everyone seated around the table, sharing stories and savouring the joy of the season. It’s a celebration of family and togetherness that we look forward to every year.
Q: If there were ‘12 Days of Christmas’ with golf gifts, what would your top three items be?
A: A sleek electric golf cart because the game can be tiring and a little luxury on the course would be a dream. Next would be a personalised and stylish golf bag with my name on it – something functional yet eye-catching to carry my gear in style.
The third gift would be the opportunity to play a round of golf with my favourite golfer Rory McIlroy – nothing could top that experience!
Q: Which golfing legend would you want to spend the holidays with – and why?
A: Rory McIlroy. Not only is he my favourite golfer but he also comes across as fun, approachable and easygoing. I imagine he would bring great stories from the course, a laid-back vibe and plenty of laughs to the festive celebrations. And it will be interesting to learn more about his journey while enjoying the holiday spirit together!
Q: What is your goal for 2025?
A: I would like to improve my world ranking and compete in major tournaments against the best players in the world. Winning a few would be amazing!
SEASONAL FAVOURITES
TRADITION
Opening gifts
DECORATION
The star on the Christmas tree
CHARACTER
Santa Claus
MOVIE
Home Alone
FOOD
Gingerbread cookies that I bake
DEFINITIONS
CHRISTMAS
Spending time with family
LOVE
Danik – my younger brother
2024
Was very exciting
NEW YEAR
Will be more exciting
HAPPINESS
Adventure, travel and laughs
CHRISTMAS WISH LIST
A cool vintage camera would be perfect since I love photography and travel a lot
Win a big tournament
Spend lots more time with my family and cousins
NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS
Be kind
Dream big
Believe in myself
Hair and makeup
SALON TOBE
KYLE ABEYSINGHE
Q: What’s the one thing you absolutely have to do during the year end festive season?
A: Something I try to do annually is make sure I spend the festive season with my mother in New York. Spending time with my family is very important to me, and my mom and I have a deep love for Christmas festivities.
Q: What gift would you hate to receive in a ‘Secret Santa exchange’?
A: I wouldn’t really hate to receive anything, to be honest. To me, the thought that goes into gift buying is what’s most important, rather than the gift itself. But if I really had to choose, it would probably be anything related to swimming – I have too much at this point.
Q: What’s your favourite holiday movie – and why do you like it?
A: Hard to choose! I would probably go with Home Alone – because I’ve watched it since I was a little kid and have great memories spending time with my brothers watching the series. Honourable mentions would be The Grinch, Die Hard (yes, it absolutely is a Christmas movie) and It’s a Wonderful Life.
Q: If you could spend Christmas anywhere in the world, where would you go – and why?
A: New York City is absolutely magical during Christmas. I would say it’s probably my favourite place to be for Christmas and New Year; but in all honesty, as long as I’m with family and friends, I’m happy.
SEASONAL FAVOURITES
TRADITION
Putting up the Christmas tree and celebrating with the family… it’s the one time during the year where my entire family comes together and I’m reminded of so many beautiful memories from my childhood when spending time together wasn’t an anticipated event, it was just the way things were!
DECORATION
I have a train set that I put under the Christmas tree – I’ve had it since I was a child and that’s my favourite
CHARACTER
The Grinch
MOVIE
Home Alone
FOOD
Roasted ham or turkey
DEFINITIONS
CHRISTMAS
Spending time with your loved ones, spreading joy and giving back
LOVE
My family and friends
2024
Was a dream come true – I got to go to the Olympics!
NEW YEAR
Will bring new opportunities
HAPPINESS
Good company – being around people (friends or family) I love is when I’m at my happiest
CHRISTMAS WISH LIST
I’m not great at making wish lists. When I was younger, I used to wish for books, video games, movies and so on. But now I honestly don’t know. My organisation, Killer Whale Aquatics, started a charitable foundation aimed at helping underprivileged swimmers in Sri Lanka obtain access to resources that will help them develop as athletes.
I hope that we are able to provide them – swimmers that I hope to meet, greet and shake hands with – what they need and alleviate their burdens in some way. There are so many talented athletes in our country but unfortunately, finances play a major part in hindering their progress.
Our foundation aims to remove this obstacle. With this being the first year of our foundation’s existence, my genuine wish is that our endeavour is successful and makes an impact for the betterment of swimming in Sri Lanka.
NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS
I’m not the biggest fan of New Year’s resolutions; I don’t really believe in them. People stick to them for a few weeks and then forget about them. I’ve always been driven and goal oriented. So I’ll continue with more of the same by working towards achieving my goals, both in my career as an athlete and my professional life.
One New Year’s resolution would be to let the people that are closest to me know that I love them. As you can probably tell by most of my responses, my loved ones mean a lot to me. And I don’t tell them this as often as I should. I won’t have to wait until the New Year though, I’ll make that change today.
RASHIPRABHA SANDEEPANI
Q: If you could star in a Christmas movie, which one would it be – and what role would you like to play?
A: I watched The Princess Switch last year and my favourite character in the movie is the baker. I love how the two girls switch roles and experience each other’s lives. It would be amazing to play a princess, even if it’s only for a movie – at least once in my life.
Q: Who would be your dream co-star in a Christmas rom-com?
A: Henry Cavill – I have a big crush on him. I think we would have great on-screen chemistry.
Q: If Santa could grant you one ‘acting wish’ during the season, what would it be?
A: My dream would be to act in a Bollywood movie with Shah Rukh Khan – and I’m definitely manifesting this!
Q: What’s the most memorable Christmas gift you have received?
A: More than a gift, it was a tradition. My parents would tell me that Santa Claus visited with gifts every Christmas. As time passed, I realised it was actually my parents and not Santa. But the memory of eagerly waiting to open my gifts is unforgettable.
SEASONAL FAVOURITES
TRADITION
Christmas dinner
DECORATION
Christmas tree
CHARACTER
Santa Claus
MOVIE
The Home Alone series
FOOD
Christmas cake
DEFINITIONS
CHRISTMAS
Happiness, love and peace
LOVE
All about Christmas
2024
Life changing
NEW YEAR
Remarkable
HAPPINESS
Peace
CHRISTMAS WISH LIST
I have always wanted to celebrate Christmas in London or somewhere in Europe – especially since my birthday is on 27 December and I’d love to share it with my special one who will also love a nice surprise
I’d also like to create new memories
NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS
To work on at least one international project
Learn martial arts
Gain fluency in a new language
Travel to at least three new countries next year
Hair
AWEERA HAIR & BEAUTY
Makeup
THE BLUSHING NOIR