The High Commission of Sri Lanka in Singapore organised a vibrant event to celebrate Deepavali, the festival of lights, on 25 October 2025 at Sri Senpaga Vinayagar Temple, a Sri Lankan heritage temple in Singapore dating back to 1850, which brought together over 150 members of the Sri Lankan expatriate community and friends of Sri Lanka.
The event commenced with blessings and religious observances conducted by Siva Saranya Kurukkal, which set a serene tone for the evening, reflecting the essence of Deepavali. The traditional oil lamp was jointly lit by the Guest of Honour, Mr Neil Parekh, Chairman of the Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Singapore, and the High Commissioner H.E. Senarath Dissanayake, together with the representatives of Sri Lankan associations in Singapore.
Welcoming the gathering, the High Commissioner highlighted the relevance of Deepavali’s timeless message of triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance to the entire world at a time when humanity faces countless challenges from ideological divisions to unrest and uncertainties. He also noted that celebrating Deepavali at the historic Sri Senpaga Vinayagar Temple underscored the shared cultural heritage and enduring people-to-people ties between Sri Lanka and Singapore.
In his remarks, the Guest of Honour, Mr Parekh, expressed his delight at joining the celebration once again this year and extended his warm Deepavali greetings to the Sri Lankan community. He noted that a deep-rooted cultural and people-to-people linkage exists between Sri Lanka and Singapore. He also mentioned that a business delegation from Singapore is scheduled to visit Sri Lanka in the coming months, which is expected to further strengthen the economic collaboration between the people of the two countries.
A cultural programme featuring a colourful array of traditional dances and devotional performances that reflect the spirit of Deepavali captivated the audience.
The evening concluded with a vegetarian buffet spread that united the community in fellowship and festive spirit at a welcoming and hallowed space.
High Commission of Sri Lanka
Singapore
30 October 2025
