MANAMA: The Embassy of Sri Lanka, in collaboration with the Sri Lankan Hindu Community in the Kingdom of Bahrain, celebrated Deepavali at the Chancery premises on 31 October 2024. This event served as a cultural gathering, uniting members of the Sri Lankan community in Bahrain to observe the Festival of Lights, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and wisdom over ignorance.

According to Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Sri Lanka, the ceremony began with the lighting of the traditional oil lamp, followed by Hindu religious observances led by Mr. Sri Kanesh Alagan. These observances included blessings for those present, as well as for Sri Lanka and its people. Ambassador H. M. G. R. R. K. Wijeratne Mendis welcomed the attendees and extended warm wishes for peace, happiness, and prosperity to all Sri Lankan Hindus and the wider community in Bahrain. The Ambassador also shared the President of Sri Lanka’s Deepavali message, emphasizing the importance of promoting harmony and bridging soci
etal gaps to foster an existence characterized by compassion and critical thought.

Madhuka Silva, Minister and Head of Chancery of the Embassy, read out the Deepavali message from the Minister of Foreign Affairs, highlighting the nation’s revival journey under the theme ‘Pohosath Ratak, Lassana Jeewithayak’. Additionally, Mr. Pratheepan Rajasingham from the Sri Lankan Hindu Community addressed the gathering, underscoring Deepavali as an opportunity to foster unity and reinforce shared values of harmony and mutual respect within the multicultural Sri Lankan community abroad.

The event concluded with attendees enjoying traditional Deepavali delicacies served by the Embassy. This celebration initiated by the Embassy reaffirms its commitment to supporting cultural expressions and traditions that promote unity among Sri Lankans residing in the Kingdom of Bahrain.