Sinhala and Tamil New Year - 2018 was celebrated at the College de Fareres Unis Ground, Saloumeh on 15.04.2018 under the patronage of Sri Lanka Ambassador to Lebanon Mrs. H.M.G.R.R.K. Wijerathna Mendis. The Ambassador and the guests were received by a welcome dance performed by Sri Lanka Army contingent at UNIFIL, Nakura and Sri Lanka Community in Lebanon.
Large number of Sri Lankans and other nationalities living in Lebanon were attended this event. All traditional games were conducted, and there were huge participation and competition during the event.
The programme was commenced after lighting the traditional oil lamp by the guests. Addressing the gathering, Ambassador Mrs. H.M.G.R.R.K. Wijerathna Mendis read out the New Year day message of President Maithripala Sirisena. She also stated that it was a great pleasure to her to see a large number of Sri Lankans gathering to celebrate the National event.
This event consisted of a number of traditional games such as Banis kema, Kotta pora, Singithi Avurudu Kumariya, Idikattata nula demeema, dehigediya handethabagena diveema, Kanamuttiya bindeema, Sangeetha thoppi tharangaya, and Avurudukumariya thereema.
In addition to the above, two singers arrived from Sri Lanka National Youth Council performed songs at the event. Sri Lankan community living in Lebanon performed a number of traditional Sri Lankan Sinhala and Tamil dances.
Mr.Rameyo Abou Chaaya, President of Crystal Exchange and Mr.Sameera Rukshan, Business Promotion officer of the Commercial Bank of Ceylon were also present at this occasion. The event was sponsored by the Commercial Bank of Ceylon.
