MALE : The High Commission of Sri Lanka in Maldives celebrated Thai Pongal on 16 January 2026 at the Chancery, with the attendance of Sri Lankan community.
Celebrations commenced with the lighting of the oil lamp by staff of the High Commission and members of the community.
Delivering the welcome remarks, High Commissioner M. Rizvi Hassen stated that Thai Pongal is a time for reflection, thanking the Sun God, Mother Nature, and farm animals for a bountiful harvest, symbolizing new beginnings, prosperity, and the spirit of togetherness through traditional rituals and delicious Pongal. He also thanked the staff and the Sri Lankan community for coming together to celebrate the multifaceted cultural diversity of Sri Lanka irrespective of their beliefs and faiths.
Shivam Chandrabose representing the Sri lankan Tamil Community in Maldives, spoke about the significance of Thai Pongal and its rituals. The religious observances were commenced with the boiling of milk and recital of devotional songs. The Pooja was conducted by Mr Kugan and Mr Siva Sankar invoking blessings on those who were present at the occasion, as well as on Sri Lanka and its people.
At the conclusion of the official programme, the attendees were served with a dinner of traditional cuisine of Northern Sri Lanka.
