Colombo Glows in the Light of Diwali
Indian Diaspora and Sri Lankan friends came together to celebrate the Festival of Lights through a series of vibrant events organized across the city from Oct. 17–20.
These celebrations reflected not only the joy and spirituality of the festival but also the deep-rooted cultural ties between India and Sri Lanka.
On Oct. 17, a Diwali Ball was organized by the Indian Cultural Association (ICA) and the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Center, Colombo, at Water’s Edge, Battaramulla.
Held amid shimmering lights and festive decor, Diwali was celebrated with Bollywood music, dance, and delectable Indian cuisine.
High Commissioner Santosh Jha graced the occasion, joining the Diaspora in the spirit of joy and togetherness. A series of energetic Bollywood performances by Sri Lankan Band Raavans, music by Gemanth Nigam, and a fireworks display added to the ambiance.
Continuing the celebrations, COLIND and the Indian CEO Forum hosted another grand Diwali Ball at the Taj Samudra on Oct. 18.
The evening was a showcase of Indo-Lankan cultural harmony and camaraderie, with dignitaries in attendance.
Vijitha Herath – Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, Sunil Handunneththi – Minister of Industries & Entrepreneurship Development, Anil Jayantha Fernando – Minister of Labor, along with Deputy Ministers, former President Ranil Wickremesinghe, and members of the diplomatic corps, celebrities, business leaders, and the Indian community.
Sri Lankan artists from the Prashadi Dance Academy and renowned singer Umara Sinhawansa enthralled the audience with captivating performances, further underscoring the rich cultural fusion between the two nations.
In his address, the High Commissioner highlighted India’s recent economic reforms, including the reforms to the Goods and Services Tax (GST).
He noted that these initiatives had led to a festive shopping bonanza across India, boosting market activity and consumer optimism during the Diwali season.
High Commissioner H.E. Santosh Jha and Madam Tanuja Jha also hosted the Indian High Commission family at the Chancery premises to mark Diwali on Oct. 20.
Officers and their families celebrated the festival in a warm and familial atmosphere, evoking a true sense of a “home away from home.”
Diwali celebrations in Colombo not only brought communities together in joyous festivities but also celebrated the enduring friendship and cultural synergy between India and Sri Lanka.