Showcasing the multicultural legacy in Sri Lanka, the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Abu Dhabi celebrated Deepavali festival, the festival of light, on 7 November 2018 at the Embassy premises. Members of Sri Lankan Hindu community and other religious communities, well wishers, staff of the Embassy and their family members attended the event.
The Embassy premises were decorated with flowers and beautiful Deepavali decorations known as ‘Kolam’ and illuminated with multicoloured candles. Symbolizing the spiritual victory of light over darkness, which is the essence of Deepavali festival, lamps were lit together by all who gathered at the event.
The event commenced with the lighting of the traditional oil lamp and invitees were welcomed by Mr. Mohammed Rizvi, the Head of Chancery of the Embassy. Ms. Harsha Ruparathne, Second Secretary conducted the proceedings of the celebrations.
Charge d’ Affaires of Sri Lanka to Abu Dhabi, Mr. Sabarulla Khan, in his brief remarks highlighted the importance of celebrating Deepavali as a national festival and underlined its significance in bringing all communities together towards co-existence and lasting peace.
Mr. R.S. Kumar, General Manager of Trans World Oil Sources LLC, thanked the Embassy on behalf of the Sri Lankan Hindu community in Abu Dhabi for organizing the event.
To conclude, special Deepavali sweets and snacks were enjoyed by the attendees.
