The moon came close to earth by around 30,000 km than the usual distance, making it 14 percent larger and 30 percent brighter than usual. While many in Sri Lanka missed the moon due to the rain, it was seen by many across the world, including people in Bangkok.

Six voters in the tiny New Hampshire town of Dixville Notch cast their ballots just after midnight, kicking off the quadrennial U.S. presidential elections on Tuesday.

Pic: Xinhua

A huge sinkhole has opened in the centre of the Japanese city of Fukuoka, prompting concern for commercial buildings perched precariously on its edge. Pic: Reuters

As the sun was setting last evening over the Independence Square, Pandit W.D. Amaradeva, doyen of Sri Lankan music, bid his farewell to the nation. Pic: Padman Bahasuru Nanayakkara / Facebook

Large crowds were seen lining up to pay their last respects to Pandit W.D. Amaradeva at the Independence Square today. His remains were brought their this morning. Pic: Lankadeepa

Low visibility due to the smog in New Delhi on Wednesday. The Indian capital was hit by severe smog after the use of fireworks over the weekend to mark Diwali. Photo: RV Moorthy (The Hindu)

Disabled war veterans launched a protest in Colombo for a second day, after yesterday's protests were unsuccessful.

They alleged that the pension they are entitled to has not been paid by the government.

Pic: Lankadeepa