Hyderabad/ New Delhi, Dec 5: “Around the World in Magnets – Sri Lanka,” a unique and visually compelling travelogue authored by Dr Anthony Vipin Das and Ms Vidushi Duggal, was launched at a special ceremony hosted at the Sri Lanka High Commission in New Delhi.
The book, the first in its national series, invites readers to rediscover Sri Lanka through an unusual yet deeply nostalgic medium—souvenir magnets. Each magnet carries a story, a moment, an image, and a memory, offering a creative narrative journey across the island nation.
The book was formally launched by H.E. Ms Mahishini Colonne, Sri Lankan High Commissioner to India, in the presence of diplomats, authors, media, literary enthusiasts and friends of Sri Lanka.
The magnets featured and discussed in the book were displayed at the venue.
Anthony Vipin Das and Vidushi Duggal of Hyderabad explored Travel Souvenir Magnets from around the world and, as a unique attempt, penned a book “Around the World in Magnets”
The book gives insights into Travel Magnets and why they are so important. Souvenir Magnets are common collectable items, and many travellers bring back these little pieces from their explorative journeys. The Sri Lanka book is a collection of some of the most unique magnets collected across the island nation.
To celebrate the launch, a panel discussion was moderated by Mr Sanjoy Roy, Founder of the Jaipur Literature Festival, adding a rich literary and cultural dimension to the evening along with Prof. Mahalakshmi Ramakrishnan, Professor at the Centre for Historical Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University and Ambassador (Retd) Gitesh Sharma.
In an emotionally charged address, High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to India, H.E Ms.Mahishini Colonne, spoke about the unprecedented destruction caused by Cyclone Ditwah, which severely impacted Sri Lankan communities and infrastructure. She expressed deep gratitude for India’s swift humanitarian assistance and called for continued solidarity. “I warmly encourage you to continue travelling to Sri Lanka,” she said.
“Tourism sustains families and communities, and your presence will directly support our recovery. At a time when we rebuild, your support means more than ever.”
All proceeds from the book sales at the event were donated to the Cyclone Relief Fund established by the Sri Lanka High Commission in New Delhi.
To contribute to the Cyclone Relief, please visit: www.donate.gov.lk
The High Commissioner also highlighted that Indian travellers remain one of the largest and most vibrant groups visiting Sri Lanka, drawn by its pristine beaches, ancient heritage, shared spiritual roots and warm hospitality.
“Around the World in Magnets – Sri Lanka” beautifully captures these experiences through curated visuals and stories, offering readers a fresh, intimate lens to explore the island.