The “Beauty of Sri Lanka 2024” exhibition has mesmerised audiences throughout the United States, offering an enchanting journey into the cultural and natural wonders of Sri Lanka. Launched by Consul General of Sri Lanka to Los Angeles Dr. Lalith P. Chandradasa, the exhibition made its debut at the prestigious Grand Salon of the Kerckhoff Hall at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) recently. Showcasing breathtaking imagery of Sri Lanka’s wildlife, landscapes, and cultural heritage, the exhibition attracted crowds of admirers eager to immerse themselves in the beauty of the island.
Following its successful premiere in Los Angeles, the exhibition continued its voyage to Sri Lanka’s permanent representative office to the United Nations in New York. The presence of United Nations General Assembly President Dennis Francis as the chief guest underscored the event’s international significance.
Sri Lanka’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Mohan Peiris and Deputy Permanent Representative Sugeeshwara Gunarathna played pivotal roles in organising the exhibition, marking its first appearance in New York.
Nearly a hundred ambassadors and diplomats from around the world gathered to witness the exhibition, expressing genuine surprise and admiration for the captivating photographs on display, skillfully captured by veteran photographers. These images unveiled the rich cultural heritage and natural splendour of Sri Lanka, leaving a profound impression on attendees. Foreign ambassadors lauded the exhibition, expressing confidence that it would significantly boost Sri Lanka’s tourism industry by showcasing its captivating beauty to the world. A ceremony held in conjunction with the exhibition featured a speech by Mohan Peiris, emphasizing the importance of cultural exchange and appreciation.
United Nations General Assembly President Dennis Francis underscored the significance of preserving and celebrating the cultural heritage of nations in his address.
The grand finale of the “Beauty of Sri Lanka 2024” exhibition coincided with the “Passport DC” event organised by the embassy at the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Washington, D.C., on May 4.
Thousands of visitors, including Americans and dignitaries, were treated to a visual feast celebrating Sri Lanka’s vibrant heritage and natural wonders. Organised by the America Sri Lanka Photographic Art Society, the exhibition not only captured the imagination of audiences across the United States, but also served as a powerful ambassador for Sri Lanka’s cultural and tourism aspirations on the global stage.
Contributions from photographers including Hiranthi de Silva, Laksitha Karunarathna, Vimukthi Weeratunga, Ravi Ranasinghe, K.G.Keerthirathna, Andy Samarasena, Sanjaya Warnasuriya, Shantha Weerasinghe, and Suriya Perera enriched the exhibition.
