Sri Lanka High Commission Hosts Cultural Evening of Dance and Heritage at Coral Strand
VICTORIA, Seychelles — The high commission of Sri Lanka in Seychelles hosted a vibrant Sri Lankan Cultural Evening on Saturday at the Coral Strand Hotel, bringing together distinguished guests, members of the diplomatic corps, and the Sri Lankan community to celebrate the island’s rich cultural heritage and enduring spirit. The evening opened with heartfelt tributes to those affected by the severe weather conditions in Sri Lanka, with guests observing a solemn one-minute silence in remembrance of lives lost.
A series of traditional performances highlighted the beauty and diversity of Sri Lankan culture, featuring a Kandyan Dance by visiting artists from Sri Lanka, a visual presentation capturing the nation’s natural beauty and traditions, the Gurulu Raksha and Naga Raksha mask dances, and the graceful Mayura Wannama — emulating the movements of the peacock — performed by Sri Lankan artists from the Seychelles community. The cultural segment reached its climax with the thrilling Gini Sisila, or Fire Dance, a mesmerising ritual involving acrobatic movements with blazing torches that symbolises purification, strength, and courage.
Manisha Perera, acting high commissioner of Sri Lanka in Seychelles, expressed profound sorrow for the tragic loss of life and devastation caused by recent floods and landslides in Sri Lanka. She emphasised the resilience and unity that have long defined the Sri Lankan people in times of adversity, and conveyed a message of solidarity underscoring the strong friendship between Sri Lanka and Seychelles. The celebration concluded with a Sri Lankan Night Buffet, with guests enjoying an authentic array of dishes prepared specially for the occasion.
