Sri Lanka High Commission in Singapore celebrated Deepavali, ‘’the festival of lights’ ‘at the Ceylon Sports Club on the 9th of November 2013.
Her Excellency Ferial Ismail Ashraff, High Commissioner, made the opening remarks welcoming the guests. She stated that celebrating important religious festivals is an attempt by the Mission to bring the community together in order to understand and appreciate each other’s religious beliefs and cultural practices.
The guest speaker for the evening was Professor Sivakumaran of The National Institute of Education, Singapore. He spoke on the significance of Deepavali emphasising the different ways in which it is celebrated in India.
The cultural segment of the evening began with melodious classical songs by children of the Shri ShenbagaVinayaka temple. Indian classical dancers from Apsaras Arts guided by their artistic director Neila Sathyalingam added colour and grace to the evening with beautiful performances. Dr.Theyvendran and the committee of the Ceylon Sports club extended their support by providing the venue for the evening.
Representatives of Singapore's Inter-Religious-Council and members of the Sri Lankan community in Singapore were present at the celebration.Guests were invited to a traditional meal at the end of the event.
Sri Lanka High Commission
Singapore
03.12.2013
