The Embassy of Sri Lanka in the Netherlands celebrated the Deepavali festival at the Embassy premises, with the participation of a cross-section of the Sri Lankan community living in the Netherlands.
The event commenced with traditional Hindu rituals that were performed by the Chief Incumbent Kurukkal, Gowri Sankara, from the Sri Thurkai Amman Temple in Zeist, the Netherlands. The Pooja ceremony invoked blessings on Sri Lanka, the Embassy and the Sri Lankan community in the Netherlands.
Celebration continued with vibrant and mesmerizing dance performances including Bharatanatyam by Sri Lankan children living in the Netherlands and the children from the Natya Sudha Dance Academy. In addition, the “Swar Deep” musical performance (Deepavali bajans) accompanied by sithar and tabla captivated the audience.
The Ambassador of Sri Lanka to the Netherlands, Rekha Gunasekera, welcomed the Sri Lankan community to the Embassy, and highlighted the significance of the message of Deepavali that transcends all boundaries of religion, faith and culture. She noted that it is a festival that represents hope, joy and the triumph of good over evil, bringing communities together in a spirit of unity and celebration. The Ambassador also quoted the Deepavali message of the President of Sri Lanka who invited all Sri Lankans to join in creating a new cultural existence that embodies compassion and critical thought and emphasized the importance of a cultural, political, and attitudinal transformation, if Sri Lanka is to realize the hope of a prosperous country and a fulfilling life for all. Chief Incumbent Kurukkal, Gowri Sankara, and President, of the Sri Thurkai Amman Temple in Zeist, S. Sritharan also addressed the attendees.
The Embassy premises were adorned with traditional Deepavali decorations, including a vibrant “kolam”, traditional Diwali lights, lamps, flowers, and many more. The event concluded with a reception where traditional Sri Lankan Deepavali dishes were served. The members of the community appreciated the efforts of the Embassy in conducting Deepavali celebrations at the Embassy. They also appreciated the Sri Lankan traditions and culture reflected in the celebrations reminding them of their motherland.
Embassy of Sri Lanka
The Hague
12 November 2024
