Professor Karunaratne Hangawatte, the Ambassador noted that Thai Pongal festival is celebrated by one and all as it is not restricted to any particular denomination. He stated, “On this holy and festive occasion let us hope and pray in unity and harmony to strive hard to achieve the common purposes of humanity for the benefit of all. Let us commit ourselves to learn to live in peace and harmony built on a foundation of respect and dignity toward each other. Let us pray together as ONE to achieve peace, harmony, happiness and abundance in unity in a joyful world.”

The day’s proceedings were conducted by the lead Swami of Sri Manicka Vinayakar Alayam Kovil of Paris along with its President Mr VaithilingamVeniramuthu. The Swamyperformed the traditional pooja with offerings to Lord “Ganesh” and blessed the people of Sri Lanka, President Maithripala Sirisena and the Embassy for longevity, peace and prosperity.

This ceremony was attended by about 75 Sri Lankan expatriates living in Paris, and inculcated in them a sense of togetherness and unity. At the conclusion of the main pooja, everyone joined in the partaking of the traditional offerings and received the blessings.