MUSCAT: The Embassy of Sri Lanka, together with the Sri Lanka Business Council Initiative (SLBCI) in Oman, hosted the inaugural Sri Lankan Roadshow – 2024 themed ‘Serendib the Golden Island’ on recently.
Held at Oasis Mall in Al Khuwair, the event aimed to showcase Sri Lanka as a premier travel destination and highlight its vibrant culture and trade opportunities to over 1,000 attendees, including Sri Lankans residing in Oman and local nationals.
Sabarullah Khan, Sri Lankan Ambassador to Oman, underscored the event’s role in enhancing bilateral economic ties and promoting Sri Lankan trade and tourism post-pandemic. An introductory video was played showcasing Sri Lankan culture, trade and tourism followed by opening remarks from Anodya Chirasrie, Counsellor and Head of Chancery.
The roadshow featured traditional Sri Lankan dances such as the ‘Mangalam’ dance by students of Sri Lankan School Muscat (SLSM), followed by the Kohomba Hela and Ravana dances. A video message from Chalaka Gajabahu, Chairman of Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, emphasised Sri Lanka’s attractions and tourism potential.
Sri Lankan traditional Puja dance, called ‘Mangalam’ dance was performed by the Sri Lankan School Muscat (SLSM) students to packed audience. This was followed by traditional dances Kohomba Hella and Ravana representing significant aspect of Sri Lankan dances. There was a video message by Chalaka Gajabahu, Chairman, Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, followed by special guests visiting the promotional stands at the venue.
Cultural performances also included the sophisticated Kandyan dance choreographed by Visharad Sasikala Abeysuriya, showcasing Sri Lankan traditions. Yasas Abeysuriya’s solo songs and a rendition of the popular ‘Manike Mage Hithe’ in Arabic attire added to the cultural diversity.
Highlighting fashion as a universal language, a stunning fashion show by Roshani Rajapakse captured Sri Lankan designs and traditions. The event concluded with the mesmerizing ‘Hela Thala Rata’ dance, showcasing Sri Lanka’s rich history through displays of Angampora martial arts and traditional Kandyan dance.
The grand prize raffle draw, won by Omani national Yousuf al Busaidi, offered an all-inclusive vacation to Sri Lanka for two, courtesy of Green Holiday.
The roadshow left a lasting impression, fostering cultural exchange and strengthening economic relations between Oman and Sri Lanka.
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
