The Consul General of Sri Lanka in Toronto Thushara Rodrigo joined the Sri Lankan Canadian Community in celebrating the Sinhala and Tamil New Year organized by Sinhalese Association of Canada on 13 April 2024 in Toronto.
The colourful celebration included Sri Lankan folk dance and music, traditional games, cuisine and entertainment. Over 1500 Sri Lankan Canadians joined the celebrations.
Addressing the participants the Consul General stated that Sri Lankans have been practicing unique cultural traditions for hundreds of years which have built a strong cultural foundation in the country and among the people of Sri Lanka.
Elaborating the importance of the New Year celebration he mentioned that traditions and practices nurtured by Buddhism and Hinduism have enriched Sri Lankans with the sense of fundamental democratic values and practices like promoting peace, harmony, love, tolerance, compassion, togetherness, unity, equality, fairness and forgiveness.
The Consul General commended the efforts of the overseas Sri Lankan community to preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage and traditions of Sri Lanka internationally.
The Chief Incumbents of Toronto Maha Vihara and Mississauga Westend Buddhist temple and the members of Venerable Maha Sangha from other Buddhist temples in Toronto participated in the event.
Consulate General of Sri Lanka
Toronto
24 April 2024
