Sri Lanka High Commission in London celebrated Deepawali Festival today (11 November 2010) with the participation of Sri Lankans living in the UK representing Hindu as well as Christian, Buddhist and Muslim faiths.
The event commenced with the lighting of traditional oil lamp. Hindu religious observances were performed by His Holiness Kurukkal Ganeshamoorthi Sami Sarma.
High Commissioner Justice Nihal Jayasinghe addressing the gathering highlighted the significance of Deepawali and said that he was pleased to see the number of Sri Lankans who had gathered in the evening to celebrate this most important event in the Hindu calendar. Recalling H.E. the President’s Deepawali message he said that the Hindus in Sri Lanka can now join the Hindus world over in joyous celebrations, sharing the spirit of festival, in an environment of tranquillity of peace.
Ms. Miti Desai, a leading artist from India adorned the evening with a splendid cultural performance. A reception with traditional Hindu cuisine followed in honour of the guests.
The High Commission premises were decorated with traditional oil lamps and illuminations.
High Commission of Sri Lanka
London
11 November 2010
