Sri Lankan expatriates in Singapore welcomed the Sinhala & Tamil New Year with a vibrant cultural showcase at PGP Hall on April 14th, 2024.
Sri Lankans in Singapore commemorated this year’s Sinhala & Tamil New Year with a festive cultural event on April 14th, 2024, at PGP Hall, Singapore. Under the auspices of the Sri Lanka High Commission, the Mahakaruna Buddhist Society in Singapore and the Singapore Sinhala Buddhist Association organised the event together. More than 500 participants attended this event, including the diplomatic corps, multi-religious representatives, Singaporeans, and members of the Sri Lankan expatriate community. Notable figures present at the occasion were H.E. Heng Chee How, Senior Minister of State for the Defence of Singapore, along with Ambassador of the USA, H.E. Jonathan Kaplan, and High Commissioner of India, H.E. Shilpak Ambule.
In keeping with the new year traditions, the celebrations begin with lighting of the traditional oil lamp. High Commissioner Senarath Dissanayake wished a happy new year to all Sri Lankans and praised the organisers for their efforts in promoting and conserving Sri Lankan culture and its distinctive customs and values. He emphasised the significant contributions of the Sri Lankan expatriate community to Singapore’s multicultural landscape and applauded the nation’s commitment to cultural diversity.
The event coincided with the 70th birth anniversary of Ven. Dr. K. Gunerathana Thero, the religious advisor of the Maha Karuna Buddhist Society who has served for the past four decades to promote Buddhist principles and welfare activities in Singapore. The High Commissioner conveyed congratulations to Ven. Thero, wishes him a healthy life and continued enthusiasm in his efforts.
The cultural extravaganza featured traditional and fusion dance performances, accompanied by rhythmic drumming, by artists flown in from Sri Lanka and members of the Sri Lankan expatriate community, offering an authentic taste of Sri Lankan heritage. Participants were treated to a spread of Sri Lankan cuisine, complemented by traditional avurudu sweets, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Source: High Commission of Sri Lanka in Singapore
