Sri Lanka’s pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai is a place of tranquility, serenity, and healing.
The pavilion, which reintroduces the doctrines of ancient civilisation into the modern world, was unveiled at the Expo on Friday and was designed by a team from the University of Moratuwa in Colombo.
With its 300 square meters of space, the pavilion provides an intimate look into the islands three most important pillars – authenticity, compactness, and diversity. Nalinda Wijerathna, the Sri Lankan consul general to Dubai and the Northern Emirates and the deputy commissioner-general for Expo, said, “Visitors to the pavilion will experience an immersive water experience, emphasizing the value of adaptability and agility.
“The pavilion features a wide selection of display screens celebrating the island nation’s unique features. With cinematic creations like this, visitors will be able to gain insight into the island’s culture, history, and ecosystem, as well as wildlife,” he said.
There is a rich and unique history of maritime links between Sri Lanka and the world that are interwoven with shipping, trade, and culture. A spacious pavilion designed as an aquatic theme creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere for all visitors and highlights Sri Lanka’s potential as one of the world’s most captivating tourist destinations,” Wijerathna said. A special tea corner, sponsored by the Sri Lankan Tea Board, allows visitors to experience the history of Ceylon tea from the leaves to the cups. Visitors can even enjoy a hot cup as part of their exploration. Sri Lankan products such as spices, beautiful clothing, and Batik will be available through export board’s retail space.
There will be events at the pavilion highlighting Sri Lanka’s rich culture, including a fashion show featuring traditional batiks, a wedding show promoting Sri Lanka’s popularity as a honeymoon and wedding destination, a cultural dance show, and a drum festival. Sybil Wettasinghe, renowned children’s book author, will be featured in a storytelling session for children, representing Sri Lanka’s rich literary heritage.
Meanwhile, the viral song ‘Manike Mage Hithe’ was performed by Sri Lankan artist Yohani de Silva at the 2017 National Day on January 3. “Post-Covid travellers are looking for tranquillity, peace, serenity and healing. Sri Lanka has an amazing offering that caters to this need,” said Kimarli Fernando, Sri Lanka tourism chairperson and commissioner-general for Expo for Sri Lanka. We hope you will create lasting memories by walking in our mountains, taking a dip in one of our nature’s ponds, and learning about our rich history and culture.”