Category Mission Press Releases

The Deputy High Commission of Sri Lanka in Chennai hosted an ‘Iftar’ function on 16 March 2026 at the Chancery premises, marking the observance of the holy month of Ramadan. The programme commenced with the recitation of Qirath by Imam Aalim Haji Omar Rilwan of the Puliyur Mosque, Kodambakkam, setting a solemn and spiritual tone for the evening. Addressing the gathering, the Deputy High Commissioner, Dr. Ganesanathan Geathiswaran, underscored the importance of respecting and upholding the values of all religions and ethnic communities. He highlighted the significance of such occasions in fostering harmony, unity, and mutual understanding among diverse communities. Imam Aalim Haji Omar Rilwan, in his address, elaborated on the spiritual significance of fasting during Ramadan, emphasizing its values of discipline, compassion, and self-reflection. The prayer of supplication was led by Imam Mohammed Akbar Ali Shah Aamiri, Traditional Quazi of the Government of Tamil Nadu, invoking blessings for peace, prosperity, and the continued well-being of Sri Lanka and its people. The event proceeded with the traditional breaking of the fast at sunset, in keeping with the customs of Ramadan. The gathering was attended by distinguished guests, well-wishers of Sri Lanka, and staff members. Guests were served a selection of traditional refreshments to break the fast, followed by an opportunity for warm interaction, reflecting the spirit of goodwill and togetherness that defines the holy month.

The Deputy High Commissioner of Sri Lanka in Chennai, Dr. Ganesanathan Geathiswaran, attended as the Chief Guest at the Valedictory Ceremony of the Sri Lankan CxO Entrepreneurship Development Program conducted at IIT Madras through IITM Pravartak. The six-week program was successfully completed by 25 entrepreneurs and senior business leaders from Sri Lanka, focusing on entrepreneurship, innovation, leadership, and the application of Artificial Intelligence in business. Addressing the gathering, the Deputy High Commissioner congratulated the participants and highlighted the importance of such initiatives in strengthening innovation and entrepreneurial collaboration between India and Sri Lanka. He also expressed appreciation to SLASSCOM, the High Commission of India in Colombo, and IITM Pravartak for their valuable support in making the program a success.

Mr. Kuldip Sarma, Co-founder and Pro-Chancellor of Medhavi Skills University, who also serves as the Director of the Medhavi Foundation, paid a courtesy call on the Deputy High Commissioner of Sri Lanka in Chennai, Dr. Ganesanathan Geathiswaran, on 16 March 2026. During the meeting, discussions focused on exploring avenues for cooperation in the fields of skill development, higher education, and capacity building. Both sides also exchanged views on promoting knowledge exchange between Sri Lanka and India in areas of mutual interest.

Mr. Thulci Aluwihare, Deputy Managing Director, and Mr. Shalaka Wijeyaratne, Executive Director, Investment Promotion and Marketing of CHEC Port City Colombo (Pvt) Ltd, paid a courtesy call on the Deputy High Commissioner, Dr. Ganesanathan Geathiswaran, on 10 March 2026.During the meeting, discussions focused on potential investment opportunities in the Colombo Port City project, with particular emphasis on promoting the initiative among investors in Southern India

Ms. Srividhya Satish, Principal of Velammal Global School, together with Ms. Suganya Angeline, Vice Principal, paid a courtesy call on the Deputy High Commissioner of Sri Lanka in Chennai, Dr. Ganesanathan Geathiswaran, on 09 March 2026. During the meeting, they extended an invitation to the Deputy High Commissioner to attend their upcoming Annual day celebration as the Chief Guest, scheduled to be held on 24 March 2026 at the school premises. The interaction provided an opportunity for a cordial exchange and further strengthened engagement with the educational community.

The Deputy High Commissioner of Sri Lanka in Chennai, Dr. Ganesanathan Geathiswaran, participated in the Tamil Nadu Leadership Summit organized by The Week at Taj Coromandel, Chennai, on 2 March 2026. The summit brought together prominent political leaders, policymakers, and industry experts to discuss economic growth, innovation, governance, and regional development in Tamil Nadu and India. The Hon. Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Mr. M.K. Stalin, addressed the gathering and outlined the State Government’s vision for future development. The Hon. Deputy Chief Minister, Mr. Udhayanidhi Stalin, Hon. Member of Parliament Dr. Thamizhachi Thangapandian, Hon. Member of Parliament Ms. Kanimozhi Karunanidhi, and Mr. Cecil Sundar, AI Director at Microsoft, also participated in the discussions. During the event, the Deputy High Commissioner engaged with participants and exchanged views on strengthening economic cooperation, trade, investment, and people-to-people ties between Sri Lanka and Tamil Nadu.

The Deputy High Commissioner Dr. Ganesanathan Geathiswaran, along with his spouse Ms. Krithiga Devi, attended as Special Guests in the inauguration of the exhibition Artist Legacy – Marking 60 Years of Vimonisha x Sarala Art International held on 9 March 2026 at the Lalit Kala Akademi Regional Centre, Chennai.  The exhibition featured a diverse collection of artworks highlighting creativity, cultural heritage, and contemporary artistic expression, while also promoting cultural exchange among artists and art enthusiasts.

The Deputy High Commissioner of Sri Lanka Dr. Ganesanathan Geathiswaran, participated as the Chief Guest, along with his spouse Ms. Krithiga Devi, at the Mega Charitable and Social Upliftment Programme held at the MASM Hall of the Melmaruvathur Adhiparasakthi Temple on 03 March 2026. The temple, founded by the late spiritual leader Bangaru Adigalar, is a renowned spiritual centre in Tamil Nadu attracting devotees from across India and abroad. The program was organized by the Melmaruvathur Adhiparasakthi Spiritual Movement together with the Adhiparasakthi Charitable Medical Educational and Cultural Trust, aimed to support nearly 3,000 underprivileged individuals through financial assistance, educational support, medical aid, and other welfare services. During the programme, the Deputy High Commissioner highlighted the importance of humanitarian efforts and discussed the value of extending compassionate support to communities, including Sri Lanka.

The Deputy High Commissioner of Sri Lanka in Chennai, Dr. Ganesanathan Geathiswaran, attended a match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup as a Special Guest at the invitation of the President of the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association. The event was also attended by several distinguished personalities, including the Consul General of Australia, Ms. Silai Zaki, and renowned musical director Mr. Anirudh Ravichander. During the match, the Deputy High Commissioner met Mr. Jay Shah, Chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC), and exchanged cordial greetings on the sidelines of the event.

Annex 4 – Sri Lanka Expo 2026 Buyer Brochure – Updated

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The Deputy High Commission of Sri Lanka in Chennai hosted a networking reception in celebrating of the 78th Independence Day of Sri Lanka on 23 February 2026 at The Leela Palace, Chennai. The event was attended by 350 distinguished guests, including members of the Diplomatic Corps, Government officials, representatives of the business community, and well-wishers

The programme commenced with a graceful performance by the Sri Lanka Police dance troupe featuring the vibrant “Pooja Netuma,” a traditional Sri Lankan devotional dance customarily performed at the beginning of auspicious ceremonies to invoke blessings and pay reverence to deities.

The Chief Guest of the event was Hon. Palanivel Thiaga Rajan, Minister for Information Technology and Digital Services of the State of Tamil Nadu. The Guests of Honour were Mr. R. Sarathkumar, Actor, Former Member of Parliament, Former Member of Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly, National Executive Member of BJP, Mr. Jose Charles Martin,

Chairman and Managing Director of the Charles Group of Companies and Mrs. Leema Rose Martin, Director of the Charles Group of Companies.

The Deputy High Commissioner Dr. Ganesanathan Geathiswaran in his address expressed appreciation for the presence of valued partners and friends, noting that their participation reflected the enduring and close ties between Sri Lanka and India, particularly with the State of Tamil Nadu. He highlighted Sri Lanka’s ongoing journey of rebuilding following recent challenges and conveyed sincere gratitude for the steadfast support extended by the Government of India and the Government of Tamil Nadu. He further emphasized the shared commitment to deepening cooperation in trade, tourism, investment, and people-to-people ties, with a view to promoting mutual prosperity of Sri Lanka and India. The Western Music Band of the Sri Lanka Police and its Dance Troupe entertained the audience throughout the evening with captivating performances showcasing Sri Lanka’s artistic excellence and adding vibrance to the celebration.

A significant highlight of the event was the official inauguration of the “Sri Lanka – South India Business Association” Mr. G. L. Gnanatheva, Minister (Commerce) of the Deputy High Commission made a speech on the objectives of setting up the association and stated that the association is a new chapter in strengthening trade and economic cooperation between Sri Lanka and South India.

To commemorate Sri Lanka’s 78th Anniversary of Independence, a ceremonial cake was cut on stage by the Deputy High Commissioner together with the Chief Guest and the Guests of Honour. Hence, a hamper of compliments containing Sri Lankan Tea and other products were distributed among the participants. The event was concluded with a dinner with Sri Lankan delicacies.

The Deputy High Commission of Sri Lanka in Chennai commemorated the 78th Independence Day of Sri Lanka with a networking reception held on 23 February 2026 at The Leela Palace Chennai. On this occasion, for the first time, the Western Music Band of the Sri Lanka Police and its Dance Troupe travelled to Chennai to perform and entertained the audience throughout the evening with captivating performances, showcasing Sri Lanka’s artistic excellence and adding vibrancy to the celebration.

Mr. Blaze Kannan, Hon. Secretary & Managing Director of Life Help Centre for the Handicapped, a Non-Governmental Organisation established in 1977, has been dedicated to serving differently-abled and underprivileged children, young adults, and adults across Tamil Nadu, India. The organisation actively works in the areas of education, healthcare, training, skill development, and employment, with the aim of enabling inclusive growth and dignity for all.
With a vision to expand its humanitarian mission beyond borders, Life Help Centre has launched an ambitious initiative to donate and install 100 Reverse Osmosis (RO) purified drinking water plant valued at USD 1 million to government-run schools. This initiative seeks to ensure safe and clean drinking water for students, contributing to better health, hygiene, and learning environments.
On the recommendation of Dr. Ganesanathan Geathiswaran, Deputy High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to Southern India, the first RO water purification system was installed at The Hindu Boys College, Bambalapitiya, on February 12, 2026. Hon. Hanif Yusoof, Governor of Western province participated as the Chief Guest, Dr. Ganesanathan Geathiswaran, Deputy High Commissioner consented to be the Guest of Honour along with participation of Mr. Blaze Kannan and Eng. A. K. Abdul Jabbar, Additional Secretary , Ministry of Education as the Special Guests in the presence of various dignitaries.
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Mr. Blaze Kannan, Hon. Secretary & Managing Director of Life Help Centre for the Handicapped, a Non-Governmental Organisation established in 1977, has been dedicated to serving differently-abled and underprivileged children, young adults, and adults across Tamil Nadu, India. The organisation actively works in the areas of education, healthcare, training, skill development, and employment, with the aim of enabling inclusive growth and dignity for all. With a vision to expand its humanitarian mission beyond borders, Life Help Centre has launched an ambitious initiative to donate and install 100 Reverse Osmosis (RO) purified drinking water plant valued at USD 1 million to government-run schools. This initiative seeks to ensure safe and clean drinking water for students, contributing to better health, hygiene, and learning environments. Marking the beginning of this noble project, the first RO water purification system is being installed at The Hindu Boys College, Bambalapitiya, on the recommendation of Dr. Ganesanathan Geathiswaran, Deputy High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to Southern India.

A Committee has been appointed with the approval of the Cabinet of Ministers of Sri Lanka to make recommendations for establishing a formal mechanism to enable Sri Lankan citizens living abroad to exercise their voting rights.

With a view to developing a democratic, transparent, and efficient system, the Committee has decided to seek written views and suggestions from relevant stakeholders including Sri Lankan citizens residing overseas and civil society organizations.
Accordingly, Sri Lankan citizens residing in the Southern India are requested to submit their views and suggestions in writing with particular focus on the following areas:

• Voter registration
• Election campaigning and advertising
• Voting procedures
• Counting of votes and declaration of results

Your suggestions may be directly forwarded to the following address on or before 12 February 2026;
Committee appointed with the approval of the Cabinet of Ministers of Sri Lanka to make recommendations for establishing a formal mechanism to enable Sri Lankan citizens living abroad to vote

Legal Division, No.330, Union Place, Colombo 02, Sri Lanka
Email : legal@pclg.gov.lk

දැන්වීම – New
දැන්වීම – English 2026.01.20
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The Deputy High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to Southern India, Dr. Ganesanathan Geathiswaran, attended the launch of “The Fragile Frontiers – Where Innovation, Politics, and Power Collide in Space” as the Guest of Honour. The book is authored by Dr. Srimathy Kesan, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Space Kidz India. The event was graced by Ms. Meenakshi Lekhi, Former Minister of State for External Affairs, Government of India, as the Chief Guest. Other distinguished dignitaries present included Dr. Neeraj A. Sharma, Honorary Consul General of the Republic of Palau, Mr. J. Ranganathan, Honorary Consul of Myanmar in India, along with members of the diplomatic corps, academics, industry experts, and invited guests.

The Deputy High Commission of Sri Lanka for Southern India organised its traditional almsgiving (Dana) ceremony for Buddhist monks on 30 January 2026, marking the 78th Anniversary of Independence of Sri Lanka.  The Dana offering was respectfully received by Ven. Nugagolle Chandraratne Thero, Nayaka Thero of the Mahabodhi Society, Chennai along with Ven. Maththamagama Rahula Thero, Ven. Divyananda Thero, and Ven. Walpola Saddananda Thero.  The religious observance was conducted in remembrance of the martyrs who sacrificed their lives in the struggle for Sri Lanka’s independence and to invoke blessings for peace, harmony, and prosperity for the nation and its people.