MOHAMMED RASOOLDEEN
KANDY : Vietnam’s ‘Tết Trung Thu’, the Mid-Autumn Festival , was celebrated in a grand manner at its monastery in Ambakote in Kandy under the patronage of deputy speaker Dr Rizvie Salih on Saturday, October
The festival is a cherished annual Vietnamese tradition dedicated to children, symbolizing family unity, prosperity, and happiness.
In his speech, Deputy Speaker Dr. Rizvie Salih said here that the embassy of Viet Nam headed by Ambassador Ms. Trinh Thi Tam, has further strengthened the people-to-people relations between Viet Nam and Sri Lanka.
The deputy speaker was speaking at Sri Lanka’s first Viet Nam Mid-Autumn Festival organized by the embassy to share Vietnamese culture and strengthen the bonds between Viet Nam and Sri Lanka, and bring joy to the children who represent the shared future of this growing friendship.
Dr, Salih further commenced the Truc Lam Monastery for its unwavering commitment to the local community and expressed
hope for future cultural collaborations that continue to foster goodwill.
Truc Lam Monastery holds the distinction of being Sri Lanka’s first Vietnamese Buddhist
temple. “ Since its establishment, it has become a cultural and spiritual bridge, actively contributing to society by promoting Vietnamese language, traditions, and community services.”
“ The Monastery plays a vital role in nurturing mutual understanding and respect
between the Viet Nam and Sri Lanka”, Dr Salih concluded.
The event was also attended by the presence of the Deputy Speaker of Sri Lanka Parliament, Dr. Rizvie Salih, as the Chief Guest; and the Governor of the Central Province, Prof. Sarath Abeykoon, as the Guest of Honour. Officials from various ministries and government
agencies, members of the Vietnamese community in Sri Lanka, and Sri Lankan friends of Viet Nam also participated in the festivities.
It is celebrated on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month – the day with the brightest and
fullest moon of the year – it is a time when lantern parades, mooncakes, and traditional
performances create a magical atmosphere that brings communities together.
Dedicated to children, the festival featured enthusiastic participation from the young attendees of both countries. They engaged in creative competitions such as lantern making and fruit decoration, adding a lively and colorful spirit to the evening. Performances by children from both cultures further enriched the celebration, showcasing the beauty of Vietnamese heritage alongside Sri Lankan friendship.
Another special highlight of the event was the recognition of the top ten students excelling in Vietnamese language studies at Truc Lam Monastery. These children have also been activelyinvolved in activities organized by the Monastery and the Embassy of Viet Nam playing a
key role in promoting cultural exchange and friendship between the two nations. Photos MSM SALEEM
