Berlin celebrates Deepavali

Embassy made arrangements to celebrate Deepavali:

The Sri Lanka Embassy in Berlin Germany made arrangements to celebrate the Deepavali Festival to honour the beliefs and aspirations of Hindu devotees last Friday November 5.

This is the second year that the Deepavali festival was celebrated at the Embassy in Berlin.

Hosting the visitors on behalf of the Government of Sri Lanka Charge d'Affaires Maj. Gen. Jagath Dias pointed out the relevance of Deepavali, celebrations symbolizing and forging unity, Peace and harmony among different nationalities of Sri Lanka, wherever they are - at a time in which a new era of peace and unity has ushered in the country, following the defeat of terrorism. Maj. Gen. Dias said he feels being at home in Sri Lanka, when he sees the audience.

The celebrations started with a Spiritual Pooja according to Hindu beliefs in the main hall of the Embassy and lighting of ceremonial oil lamp and visitors outside the Embassy building. It was a beautiful sight to witness.

After the Pooja a traditional Tamil cultural dance was performed by children from the Sri Lankan Tamil community.

Proposing the vote of thanks Mr Ananda Silva appreciated the commitment and support extended by the Sri Lankan community to the Berlin Embassy in organizing this Hindu festival in a fitting manner.

All invitees to the Deepavali festival were served a traditional Tamil meal hosted by the Embassy Staff.