The different performances provided a showcase to promote culture and tourism between Sri Lanka and Singapore and strengthening linkages between the two countries. Two shows were staged for the event; one show was organized for the Sri Lankan community, including where a number of community members performed; and another show was held in the evening for members of the diplomatic corps, business community, Sri Lankan community and expatriates, tour operators and representatives of Cultural Institutions in Singapore. Various Community groups had troupes that performed at the show.
The Acting High Commissioner of Sri Lanka in Singapore, together with the High Commissioner of Bangladesh, the Singapore High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, the Deputy High Commissioner of India and representatives of the main and cosponsors of the event respectively, Interiors Aeroservices, Concordway Pte Ltd and SriLankan Airlines, including the Director of the Channa Upuli Performing Arts Foundation and the Presidents of Singapore Sinhala Association, the Singapore Sinhala Buddhist Association, Singapore Sri Lanka Business Association and representative from the Maha Karuna Buddhist Association, the Catholic Society in Singapore, the migrant workers association and the Sri Lankan Expatriates in Singapore, light the traditional oil lamp to open the cultural show.
Mr Vipulatheja Wishwanath Aponsu, Acting High Commissioner of Sri Lanka in his speech at the event, noted that the main purpose of the show was to celebrate the traditional Sinhala and Hindu New Year, and the traditions and values associated with it and said the event was a show piece of the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka.
The 13 member Channa-Upuli Dance Ensemble performance was well received and earned praise from those who attended the Cultural Show. The Cultural show was appreciated by members of the Sri Lankan and expatriate community, diplomats and well-wishers. The Sri Lankan associations and groups in Singapore expressed their gratitude to the High Commission staff and the organizing committee of the event, that organised the colourful event in Singapore.
