A large number of Sri Lankan Community gathered to celebrate Sinhala and Tamil New Year 2025 in the capital of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh. The event was organized by the Sri Lankan Cultural Forum under the auspices of the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Riyadh.
The New Year celebrations began with the lighting of the traditional oil lamp by Ambassador of Sri Lanka to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Ameer Ajwad and his spouse Asmiya Ameer Ajwad, along with the other diplomatic staff and distinguished guests.
Addressing the gathering, Ambassador Ameer Ajwad emphasized the cultural significance of the Sinhala and Tamil New Year and underscored the unique cultural harmony of the festival. The Ambassador also invited the Sri Lankan community in Saudi Arabia to collaborate with the Embassy with a view to supporting the government’s nation-building initiatives. Additionally, Ambassador Ameer Ajwad outlined the Embassy’s ongoing efforts to strengthen engagement with the Sri Lankan diaspora across the Kingdom.
The full day celebrations showcased the richness of Sri Lankan culture, with traditional rituals, games, cuisine, and cultural performances.
A notable feature of this year’s Sinhala and Tamil New Year Celebrations in Riyadh was the participation of South Asian Ambassadors based in Riyadh, representing Bangladesh, Maldives and Nepal.
Over 1000 Sri Lankans, including family members from various faiths and cultural backgrounds, joined the festivities and shared the joy of the season.
Embassy of Sri Lanka
Riyadh
21 April 2025
