The cultural arm of the High Commission of India in Colombo, Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre celebrated the 9th Ayurveda Day in Colombo on 1st November 2024. The High Commissioner of India H.E. Santosh Jha inaugurated the 9^th Ayurveda Day with the Vice Chancellor of the University of Colombo Prof. H. D Karunaratne at the New Arts Theatre of the University.

The event was organised by the Centre along with the Faculty of Indigenous Medicine of the University of Colombo for the second time in collaboration with the Department of Ayurveda, Government of Sri Lanka, Gampaha Wickramarachchi University of Indigenous Medicine and Faculty of Siddha Medicine of the Eastern University, Trincomalee Campus.

While delivering the inaugural address, the High Commissioner stated that Ayurveda serves as a profound bridge between India and Sri Lanka, connecting the two nations through shared heritage and holistic healing practices. Rooted in ancient Indian wisdom, Ayurveda was introduced to Sri Lanka thousands of years ago, where it merged with indigenous knowledge, creating a unique yet interconnected tradition. Both countries share a deep respect for Ayurveda’s principles, focusing on balance, natural remedies, and personalized health care. The event was attended by over 300 scholars, practitioners and students from different universities and institutions.

Ayurveda Day is officially celebrated every year on auspicious day of ‘Dhanwantari Jayanti – Dhanteras’ since 2016. The theme for 9th Ayurveda Day is ‘Ayurveda Innovation for Global Health’ that represents a fusion of ancient wisdom with modern science, bringing Ayurveda’s holistic practices to a world seeking sustainable wellness solutions. 

On this occasion, two renowned Ayurveda scholars of Sri Lanka– Senior Prof. Sarath Gamini Ranasingha and Emeritus Professor (Mrs) E.R.H.S.S. Ediriweera were felicitated for their lifelong contributions to the field of Ayurveda in Sri Lanka. The winners of different competitions were also awarded with medals and book-vouchers.

Ayurveda, a natural system of medicine, originated in India more than 3,000 years ago. The term Ayurveda is derived from the Sanskrit words ayur (life) and veda (science or knowledge). Thus, Ayurveda translates to knowledge of life, with its natural therapies focused on ways to regain the balance between body, mind, spirit, and environment.

A 20-member delegation from the Singapore Press Club (SPC) is to visit Sri Lanka from 31 October to 09 November 2024, with the objective of learning more about the culture, economy, politics, and people of Sri Lanka.

The Singapore Press Club selected Sri Lanka as next destination for their annual goodwill mission, at the request of the High Commissioner of Sri Lanka in Singapore Senarath Dissanayake. During the visit, the President of the Singapore Press Club will lead the delegation. In addition to exploring the natural beauty and cultural diversity of Sri Lanka, the delegation will meet Prime Minister Dr Harini Amarasuriya, Governor of the Northern Province Nagalingam Vethanayahan and the Honorary Consul of Singapore in Sri Lanka Dr. Jayantha Dharmadasa, during their visit.

Upon returning, the delegation will share their experience through social media, printed media, and TV channels promoting Sri Lanka in Singapore.

In preparation, a pre-departure briefing session organised by the High Commission of Sri Lanka in Singapore was held on 24 October 2024 at the mission premises. During the session, High Commissioner Dissanayake welcomed the members of the delegation, including President Patrick Daniel, Vice President Bagman Singh, and General Manager Janet Wee of the SPC, and thanked them for selecting Sri Lanka as their 2024 annual goodwill mission destination. Further, the High Commissioner thanked Non-Resident High Commissioner of Singapore to Sri Lanka   S. Chandra Das for connecting the SPC with the High Commission of Sri Lanka. He further thanked Sri Lankan Airlines, Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, and various private sector companies who have contributed in numerous ways by providing concessionary air tickets and supporting with other logistical arrangements.

A detailed presentation highlighting the itinerary and the other important features of Sri Lanka was conducted for the SPC members. The itinerary which has been meticulously planned and mapped out based on the interests of Singaporeans including a highland train ride to Ella, a tuk tuk safari in Colombo, a visit to a tea factory in Nuwaraeliya, and a wildlife safari in Minneriya National Park providing exposure to the diverse local culture, wildlife, and scenic beauty that Sri Lanka has to offer. The session concluded with the serving of Sri Lankan delicacies and tea providing the participants with an opportunity to experience the Sri Lankan culinary and hospitality. Head of Chancery Ahamed Razee and Minister (Commercial) Yasantha Yaddehi  of the High Commission of Sri Lanka in Singapore also attended the event.

The Singapore Press Club (SPC), founded in 1971, is an active networking organisation serving Singapore’s vibrant media community across all platforms. The club members comprise journalists and media professionals based in Singapore, including local and foreign professionals working in the print and broadcast media as well as public relations and other media-related sectors.

High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to Canada, U. L. Mohammed Jauhar undertook an official visit to Toronto recently, following the presentation of credentials to the Governor General of Canada. During the visit, the High Commissioner paid a courtesy call on the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, Edith Dumont and also met with business and community leaders. 

High Commissioner Jauhar briefed the Lt. Governor on the recent developments in Sri Lanka, including the Presidential election and the forthcoming general elections. He conveyed his willingness to work with the Government of the Province of Ontario, to further strengthen the relations with Sri Lanka, since it is the home for several thousands of Sri Lankan-origin Canadians. He also expressed his hope that they become partners of development of their respective regions in Sri Lanka.

Welcoming the High Commissioner, the Lt. Governor observed that the diversity of the residents in the province strengthens the region and adds value to its economy and culture. She appreciated in particular the contribution of Sri Lankan Canadians for economic development and the country’s multilateral fabric, and expressed optimism that they will help further strengthen the relations of the two countries. The Lt. Governor, with her vast experience in the field of education, appreciated provision of free education by the Government of Sri Lanka to all its citizens up to university level in the language of their choice. 

High Commissioner Mohammed Jauhar visited several Sri Lankan religious places of worship in Toronto, where he paid his respect to the venerable clergy and discussed opportunities for enhanced collaboration with the community.

The High Commissioner also engaged with Sri Lankan community leaders, representatives of business chambers, and Sri Lankan associations, during a reception hosted by Consul General of Sri Lanka in Toronto, Thushara Rodrigo at the Consulate. At the event, High Commissioner Mohammed Jauhar reiterated the new President’s vision for unity, and urged Sri Lankan Canadians to work together for the progress of Sri Lanka. He highlighted the importance of the Sri Lankan diaspora contributing to the nation’s development, regardless of their ethnicity, religious affiliations or ideological differences. He also held individual meetings with leaders of various associations to further strengthen ties with the community.