The Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Mumbai organised a promotional event on Sri Lanka cultural and educational cooperation, in collaboration with the Somaiya Vidyavihar University on 29 January 2025 in Mumbai. The event was organized to promote cultural exchange and strengthen ties between universities in Sri Lanka and India, highlighting Sri Lanka's rich heritage and fostering educational cooperation.
Further, a meeting on potential collaboration between India and Sri Lanka in the sectors of tourism and education was also held. Chancellor of Somaiya Vidyavihar University, Samir Somaiya; Chairman of the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB), Buddhika Hewawasam; Chairman of the Sri Lanka Convention Bureau (SLCB), Dheera Hettiarachchi; Acting Consul General of the Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Mumbai, Shirani Ariyarathne; Junior Manager SLTPB, Shirani Herath and Marketing Manager SLCB, Malkanthi Welikala attended the meeting which was followed by a networking lunch with the academic staff. Moreover, a campus tour took place to explore the university and its facilities.
Chancellor Shri Samir Somaiya offered to extend his fullest cooperation to strengthen the bilateral ties between India and Sri Lanka. Acting Consul General of Sri Lanka in Mumbai, Shirani Ariyarathne delivered a speech on the potential cooperation between the two countries. The event also featured an address by the Chairman of the SLTPB and the Chairman of the SLCB. Coordinating Officer – Foreign Universities, Faculty of Buddhist Studies of the Nagananda International Institute for Buddhist Studies (NIIBS), Samantha Lal Opanayake also addressed the gathering virtually.
A Sri Lankan dancing troupe from Karunadasa Olaboduwa Dancing Academy performed Sri Lankan traditional dances, captivating the audience with their skill and artistry. Somaiya University and the Maya Somaiya School of Music and Performing Arts delivered traditional Indian classical music performances, a drama on women empowerment and demonstrated yoga asanas. Moreover, a video presentation showcasing Sri Lanka's cultural heritage and the Ramayana Trail with a focus on tourism was also screened.
The Consulate General gifted a photo frame of the Esala Perehara to Somaiya Vidyavihar University preceding felicitations from both the sides for the distinguished guests.
The event was a significant success, showcasing the cultural and educational connections between Sri Lanka and India.
The Consulate General of Sri Lanka together with the SLTPB, SLCB and the EDB organised a visit to the Dean of Dharma Studies, Somaiya University to Sri Lanka from 14 to 16 February 2025 and had follow - up discussions with the Sri Lankan Universities, the SLTPB and SLCB.
Consulate General of Sri Lanka
Mumbai
10 March 2025
