The Sri Lanka High Commission in Singapore celebrated Deepavali, the “Festival of Lights”, at Sri Senpaga Vinayagar temple in Singapore on 18 November 2023, hosting over 120 participants.
The event was attended by representatives of the diplomatic corps in Singapore, officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Singapore, representatives of Singapore’s Inter-Religious-Council, representatives of Sri Lankan associations, including Singapore Ceylon Tamils Association, and the Sri Senpaga Vinayagar temple and Sri Lankan expatriate community among others.
Welcoming the guests, , Actg. High Commissioner Ahamad Razee highlighted the significance of Deepavali, that symbolizes the spiritual victory of good over evil, the light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. He stated that Deepavali assumes a special significance in multicultural Sri Lanka and is celebrated as an important national festival.
Actg. High Commissioner also added that the celebrations at the Sri Lankan heritage temple will provide an impetus in further strengthening relations with the Sri Lankan community in Singapore.
Addressing the gathering, Guest of Honour and Member of Parliament of Singapore Neil Parek , stated that he was delighted to experience the Deepavali celebrations organized by the High Commission of Sri Lanka. Appreciating the participation of Sri Lankan cultural groups in the ‘Little India’ Deepavali lighting ceremony and the road parade, he stated that it further fosters cultural ties between the two countries. He also noted the efforts of the Singapore Indian Chamber of Commerce to strengthen ties between Sri Lankan and Singaporean businesses.
The invitees at the celebrations were treated to classical dance forms, including Bharathanatyam and Kathak, and classical songs performed by the students of Music and Dance Academy of Sri Senpaga Vinayagar Temple, Dance Academy of Sri Arasakasari Sivan temple as well as the professional dancers of Apsaras Art Dance Company and Tatva productions.
At the conclusion of the official programme, guests were treated to traditional sweets and a vegetarian dinner, in keeping with the spirit of Deepavali.
