The Indian Cultural Centre, which has been a prominent hub of cultural activities in Colombo since 1998, will henceforth be called “Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre, Colombo” (SVCC).

Swami Vivekananda is a globally respected personality, who was at the forefront of social reform in India in the 19th century. He was a key figure in the introduction of the Indian philosophies of Vedanta and Yoga to the Western world. He is the founder of the Ramakrishna Mission, known for its commendable humanitarian service across the world, including in Sri Lanka. Naming the Indian Cultural Centre after Swami Vivekananda is particularly significant given his close association with Sri Lanka, and his historic visit in 1897.