Lighting the lamp of Friendship
Deepavali Festival celebrated in Frankfurt Consulate:
Hindu devotees as well as Buddhist, Muslim and Christian diaspora
joined Pradip Jayewardene, the Consul General of Sri Lanka, to celebrate
the Deepavali Festival in Frankfurt. The religious ceremony to invoke
blessings was conducted by Pirathishda Kalanithi Siva Sri Arumuga
Paskarakurukkal from the prestigious Hindu Shankarar Sri Kamadchi Ampal
Temple in Germany's Hamm Uentrop city.
Addressing the visitors, Pradip Jayewardene highlighted the
importance of the festival in today's context where the community needs
to overcome all misconceptions and work together towards a better
future. Message from President Mahinda Rajapaksa and Sarath Kongahage,
the Ambassador of Sri Lanka in Germany stressed grater understanding and
increased harmony among people.
Swami Siva Sri Arumuga Paskarakurukkal conducted an elaborate Pooja
with traditional prayers and rituals. Dance performance organized by the
Tamil diaspora added to the festive atmosphere.
|
Sri Lanka’s Consul General in Germany Pradip Jayewardene
addressing the gathering. (right) religious observances and
lighting of the lamp (top). |
The visitors were also treated to a dinner buffet of traditional Sri
Lankan delicacies. |
