The Sri Lanka High Commission together with the members of the Sri Lanka community in Singapore organized a cultural and religious festival on 25th October 2009 to celebrate Deepavali.
The Sri Lanka High Commission together with the members of the Sri Lanka community in Singapore organized a cultural and religious festival on 25th October 2009 to celebrate Deepavali.
A unique feature of this event was that while celebrating the significance of Deepavali, it also celebrated the multi religious and multi cultural nature of Sri Lanka. The event was observed in keeping with the traditional rituals associated with Deepavali such as lights, kolam and kumbuam.
The event commenced with musicians from the Sri Arasakesari Sivan temple and dancers from the Sunday School of the Kelaniya Vidyalankara Pirivena leading the religious leaders in procession to the venue. This was followed by blessings conducted by the religious leaders of the Buddhist, Hindu, Christian and Islamic faiths.
Welcoming the audience, consisting of Singaporeans and Sri Lankans, High Commissioner Jayathri Samarakone wished everyone a Happy Deepavali and called for unity and harmony among all Sri Lankans.
The cultural performances commenced with a dance by the Kelaniya Vidyalankara Pirivena Sunday School dance troupe. Cultural items representing various dance forms from Sri Lanka followed. These were performed by accomplished performers from both Singapore and Sri Lanka. The performances, reflective of the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka, included such items as the Bharatha Natyam and Ves, as well as folk dances and the famed “Pantheru” dance. Renowned singer Mrs. Shobha Shankar too performed a Hindi song at the event. A tri lingual song celebrating Deepavali and the cultural unity of Sri Lanka, especially composed for the evening by Ms. Jeyasundari Sivakumaran, was sung by members of the community and the High Commission. Following the performances, the vote of thanks delivered by the Counsellor Ms. Panabokke. The evening concluded with refreshments, which included traditional sweets and food associated with Deepavali, being served to the audience.
High Commission of Sri Lanka
Singapore
13.11.2009
