Taj Samudra Colombo supports stray dog feeding initiative

Saturday, 21 March 2026 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Inspired by the compassion and legacy of Ratan Tata, whose love for stray animals reflected deep humanity, Taj Samudra has been carrying out a meaningful initiative for almost two years, that blends sustainability with kindness.

In collaboration with the Animal Wellness Trust Sri Lanka, the hotel contributes to a daily feeding programme supporting hundreds of stray dogs across Colombo. Animal Wellness Trust Sri Lanka, founded by Dr. Krishanthi Rondon Fuentes and Hector Fuentes, has long been engaged in animal rescue and welfare initiatives.

Safe, hygienic surplus food from the hotel’s buffet operations is carefully set aside instead of being discarded, helping reduce food wastage while supporting animal welfare. A dedicated Kitchen Stewarding team led by Kasun Gomes, supported by the Chefs of Ports of Call kitchen, ensures that suitable leftover food is handled hygienically and prepared for early morning collection by the Animal Wellness Trust team. The food is collected by the Animal Wellness Trust team and distributed to stray dogs across the city.

Regular feeding helps keep the dogs healthy and calm, while also ensuring that pedestrians and street food vendors are not disturbed as the animals remain well-fed.

Speaking about the initiative, Taj Sri Lanka and Maldives Area Director and Taj Samudra Colombo General Manager Samrat Datta said: “By sharing what would otherwise go to waste, we hope to make a meaningful difference in the lives of these animals while contributing positively to the community. It resonates ‘Tajness’ – our service philosophy, which is all about genuine care, concern and kindness”.

Each morning, before the city awakens, this quiet act of care unfolds — a reminder that true hospitality extends compassion beyond people to all living beings.