Ambassador of Sri Lanka reaffirms commitment to fostering cooperation with Lao PDR and Cambodia
The Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka paid calls to the Ambassador of the Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) to Thailand, H.E. Mr. Khamphan Anlavan and the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Cambodia to Thailand, H.E. Hun Saroeun, at their respective embassies in Bangkok. These diplomatic meetings served to strengthen bilateral relations and reaffirm Sri Lanka’s commitment to fostering cooperation with both Lao PDR and Cambodia, both of which are accredited to the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Thailand.
Sri Lanka-Thai Collaboration in Batik Art: Harshi Batik Participates in Specialized Training in Thailand
As part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen cultural ties and promote artistic collaboration, the Embassy and Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka in Bangkok facilitated the participation of Harshi Batik, a Sri Lankan artisan, in a specialized training programme on traditional Thai Batik. The programme was conducted by the esteemed Phaya Batik and Phaya Paint Batik in Thailand, recognized for their expertise in preserving and innovating the timeless art of Batik.
The Sri Lanka Army cultural troupe led by Cpt. AjithRuwanpura, comprising of 7 performers; Ms. AnushiErandika, Ms. NisansalaDilhani, Mr. PreethiViraj, Mr. Udaya Kumara, Mr. Lasantha Kumara, Ms. MalkaDileshi and Ms. DiliniErandikademonstratedvibrant and colourful dances based on the traditional Kandyan (up country), low Country dance forms, drum beats and traditional vocals and melodies.
Welcoming the gathering Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Thailand Mrs. Samantha K. Jayasuriya said that according to the historical records, Sri Lankan dancing and drumming has been practiced at least for 800 year. There had approximately 35 types of drums been used in Sri Lanka,and the ‘Waves of Rhythm’ performances included the traditional ceremonial drums- called ‘Hevisi’, which is used in the Temple of the Scared Tooth Relic, two popular ‘Wannams’- depicting the majestic movements of the Elephant, called ‘GajagaWannama’, and the flamboyant characters of the peacock, called the ‘MayuraWannama’. Displaying the acrobatic prowess and vibrancy, the performers brought to the stage the traditional dance forms ‘Ves’,and the costumes depict the god of Sun, and ‘Thelme’, isa pure classical and rhythmical dance from the low country, entertaining the audience. Invoking the blessings of the Triple Gem and the benevolent spirits over the audience, the cosmic performance ‘SaluPalia’ -a low country ritualistic dance form engaged the entire audience. The culmination of the event was the drum orchestration that showcased the skills of the performers on five main types of drums along with the bells and flutes.
The event was graced by the diplomatic corps in Bangkok, media, well wishers, university students, Thai and Sri Lankan communitywhere they were able to get some insight of Sri Lanka as a ‘must visit’ travel destination.Videos on Sri Lankan popular travel destinations and hotels were played during the event and brochures from Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) to raise awareness on Sri Lanka. The participants also joined for a reception that gave a taste of Sri Lanka with its world famous ‘Ceylon Tea’ and Sri Lankan snacks.
Embassy of Sri Lanka
Bangkok
20 January 2020
