The Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre (SVCC), the cultural arm of the High Commission of India, Colombo, commemorated the 77th Foundation Day of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) in Colombo on 04 May 2026 at Hotel Taj Samudra. The event was graced by Hon. Muneer Mulaffer, Deputy Minister of Religious and Cultural Affairs and Mr. Tilvin Silva, General Secretary, Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) as Chief Guests.
The Foundation Day of ICCR holds immense significance as it commemorates the establishment of an institution at the forefront of India’s cultural diplomacy, fostering understanding, goodwill, and cooperation between India and the world. It symbolizes the values of diversity, inclusivity, and mutual respect, which lie at the heart of ICCR’s endeavours, making it a guiding light of cultural exchange and harmony.
The event unfolded with a vibrant display of Indian and Sri Lankan classical dances and melodious musical performances, depicting the cultural bonds and deep linkages between the two countries.
While inaugurating the event, the High Commissioner of India H.E. Santosh Jha, congratulated the ICCR family of Sri Lanka. In his speech he emphasized the important role played by ICCR in the cultural diplomacy of India by fostering cultural exchange and people-to-people connect. He also emphasised on the strength of the shared heritage between India and Sri Lanka and how it brings the two countries together.
While delivering the address of the Chief Guest, Hon. Muneer Mulaffer appreciated ICCR for bridging borders through cultural diplomacy, proving that shared heritage in language, cinema, and history creates a bond far stronger. By creating a global network of ICCR alumni, including the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, and acting as a first responder in crisis, Deputy Minister appreciated ICCR for using culture to bridge differences and build a secure, unified, and peaceful world.
JVP’s General Secretary Mr. Tilvin Silva, conveyed his best wishes on the 77th anniversary of ICCR. He appreciated the ICCR’s role in strengthening cultural relations between India and the world, as well as between India and Sri Lanka. Reflecting on his recent visit to India organized by the ICCR, he expressed sincere gratitude for the warm hospitality and excellent arrangements throughout the programme. He also noted that the longstanding ties between India and Sri Lanka, rooted in over 2,500 years of shared history and cultural heritage, continue to be enriched through such initiatives.
A series of brief speeches followed, from distinguished ICCR alumni and academic leaders, including Ven. Maitipe Wimalasara Thero, Chief incumbent of Parama Dhamma Chethiya Pirivena, Prof. Ranjan Hettiarachchi, Department of Mass Media, University of Colombo and Dr. A.S. Chandrabose, Retired Professor in Social Studies. Notable ICCR alumni also delivered heartfelt musical and dance performances.
This event reaffirmed the role of the ICCR and SVCC in nurturing generations of cultural ambassadors, building bridges of understanding, and strengthening the enduring bond between India and Sri Lanka.
ICCR was founded in 1950 by India’s first Education Minister, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, with the objective of fostering and strengthening cultural relations and mutual understanding between India and the world, and to promote cultural exchanges with other countries and people. During its long journey, the ICCR has been instrumental in promoting India’s rich cultural heritage on the global stage. Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre of the High Commission of India, Colombo, established in 1998, is the ICCR centre in Sri Lanka.
