Shangri-La Hambantota and B.P. De Silva unite for wildlife conservation

• Launch commemorative Coffee Table Book celebrating the Sri Lankan elephant 

Shangri-La Hambantota and B.P. De Silva together with wildlife artist Thushara Dissanayake, have announced a momentous partnership on World Tourism Day as they unveiled, ‘Thushara – The Artist Who Listens to Elephants’, featuring exquisite paintings of the Sri Lankan elephant. 

This year’s theme for World Tourism Day is ‘Tourism and Green Investment’ highlighting the need for more and better-targeted investments for people, planet and prosperity. The artistic masterpieces adorning the book were created by the talented artist Thushara Dissanayake from Shangri-La Hambantota’s Artisan Village. This launch also commemorates the 150-year anniversary of B.P. De Silva in Singapore, marking a historic collaboration between these two esteemed entities.

The Artist Who Listens to Elephants, is more than just a collection of stunning artworks; it is a powerful statement of commitment to wildlife conservation and the preservation of Sri Lanka’s natural heritage. Each painting within its pages captures the majestic beauty and profound importance of elephants, a symbol of cultural and ecological significance in Sri Lanka.

B.P. De Silva Chairman Amarasuriya said: “As we celebrate our 150-year legacy in Singapore, we are delighted to unite with Shangri-La Hambantota in this noble cause. Our history is steeped in cultural heritage, and this partnership underscores our responsibility towards preserving our natural heritage.” Shangri-La Hambantota General Manager Refhan Razeen said: “Our dedication to wildlife conservation, art and heritage, finds its true expression in this coffee table book. It is a testament to the transformative power of art, bringing awareness to the urgent need for wildlife conservation. And what makes it even more meaningful is that it is painted by our very own artist in our Artisan Village, Thushara and symbolises our drive to shine a light on hidden talent. This World Tourism Day, we are proud to join hands with B.P. De Silva to celebrate our shared values and commitment to our planet.”

The significance of elephants holds a special place in Shangri-La’s ethos, represented by “Moon Moon,” its beloved elephant mascot. Moon Moon is an artistic collaboration between Shangri-La and the famous Hong Kong born artist Man Fung-Yi and her husband Mok Yat-San featuring a sculpture of a baby elephant, representing peace, strength and tolerance that embraces peaceful co-existence, mutual respect and sustainability. In alignment with the book’s theme of elephants and conservation, Shangri-La Hambantota is pleased to announce that it would be adopting a baby elephant as a younger sibling for Moon Moon as part of its ongoing commitment to wildlife conservation.

The Artist Who Listens to Elephants, not only celebrates artistry but also underscores the pressing need to protect and preserve our planet’s diverse and endangered wildlife. Through this partnership, Shangri-La Hambantota and B.P. De Silva are dedicated to making a meaningful contribution to the wildlife conservation in Sri Lanka.