Santosh Jha, the Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, opened Bharat Kosh, a repository of Indian knowledge, at the Colombo Public Library on Monday (12). The century-old Colombo Public Library’s Bharat Kosh features a carefully chosen collection of books about India and written by Indian authors. It also includes artefacts and cultural treasures that honour India’s rich past and demonstrate the close cultural and historical ties between Sri Lanka and India. The Bharat Sri Lanka Maitri Week 2024, a week-long celebration that showcases the rich cultural and artistic exchanges between India and Sri Lanka, begins with the opening of Bharat Kosh.
“Bharat Sri Lanka Maitri Week begins.”
To commemorate India’s 78th Independence Day, the High Commission of India and its cultural arm, the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre, are celebrating the week. The Bharat Sri Lanka Maitri Utsav, which is scheduled for August 15–18 in Colombo’s famous Independence Square and Park, is sure to be a highlight of the festivities.
A Traditional Handicrafts Exhibition featuring the creations of artisans from Sri Lanka and India, Cultural Performances showcasing various troupes from both countries, and an Open Mic Evening offering college and high school students a stage to display their talents are all part of the Utsav program. The Food Festival will also feature a delectable selection of Indian and Sri Lankan food, along with other culinary treats, book stalls, and a variety of interesting events and exhibitions.
The goal of the Bharat-Sri Lanka Maitri Utsav 2024 is to strengthen cultural ties and honour the rich cultural heritage that the two twin civilisations share. Public access to the Utsav will begin that evening on August 15, 2024.
