Tamil, Sinhala unity displayed in Switzerland

In showcasing peace and unity between the two communities hitherto thrust into misunderstanding, the Tamil and Sinhalese of the Sri Lankan diaspora in Switzerlandheld a cultural event to enhance the fresh bonds arising after the defeat of separatism in the island nation.

This event held in the amiable Swiss town of Fribourg was perhaps the first where the Tamils and Sinhalese from the Sri Lankan diaspora have openly come out together in solidarity. The defeat of the separatists last year had encouraged several business entities to come forward to sponsor the event, said the Sri Lanka Diaspora sources.

The Sri Lankan diaspora members were joined by the island’s envoy in Germany and Switzerland T.B. Maduwagedera, Sri Lankan envoy in Switzerland Ms. Kshenuka Seneviratne and Buddhist and Hindu clergy. Delegated from Sri Lankan Tamil political parties the EPDP, EPRLF and PLOTE too were among the guests.

The event kicked off with the traditional lighting of the oil lamp and the singing of the National Anthem followed by Kandyan as well as Bharatha Natyam dances and several Sri Lankan cultural performances.

A notable feature was the singing of Sinhala and Tamil songs by a Swiss national.

The event was watched peacefully in the Swiss town after several decades and the organizers attributed this to the absence of any intimidation by the Tamil Tiger representatives after its defeat in Sri Lanka.