The Embassy of Sri Lanka in the Netherlands celebrated Deepavali, the beautiful festival of lights, on Saturday, 25 October 2025. The event was held at the Embassy premises with the participation of the Sri Lankan community.
This auspicious occasion began with a special Ganapathi Pooja conducted by Chief Incumbent Kurukkal Gowri Sankara of the Sri Thurkai Amman Temple in Zeist, The Netherlands. The programme continued with vibrant cultural performances including classical Bharatanatyam by members of the Sri Lankan community in the Netherlands, adding colour and vibrancy to the celebrations which were enjoyed by all.
Addressing the gathering, Ambassador of Sri Lanka to the Netherlands, Rekha Gunasekera warmly welcomed the guests to the Deepavali celebration and read the Deepavali message from President Anura Kumara Disanayaka. She noted that the message of Deepavali transcends the boundaries of religion, faith and culture, and that it is a festival representing hope, joy, and the triumph of good over evil bringing communities together in a spirt of unity and celebration. Chief Incumbent Kurukkal Gowri Sankara and President of the Sri Thurkai Amman Temple, Sri Karan Ponampalam also addressed the gathering. Both extended their blessings and best wishes to the Embassy and the Sri Lankan community, and were grateful for the arrangements made by the Embassy to celebrate Deepavali in the Hague.
The Embassy was decorated with traditional “kolam” design, oil lamps, and other Deepavali festive decorations, creating a warm and joyful atmosphere. The celebration concluded with a Sri Lankan vegetarian dinner including an array of traditional sweets, reflecting the Deepavali customs which were enjoyed by all the guests.
Embassy of Sri Lanka
The Hague
29 October 2025
