The High Commission of India in Colombo with its cultural arm, Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre (SVCC) organized a live music concert on 22 January 2025, PAPON Live, to commemorate the 76th Republic Day of India falling on January 26, 2025. The event held at the Nelum Pokuna Theatre was graced by Acting High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka Dr. Satyanjal Pandey along with Sri Lanka’s Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security, and Cooperative Development Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe, Deputy Minister of Vocational Education Hon. Nalin Hewage, Deputy Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Hon. Chaturanga Abeysingha, Deputy Minister of Finance & Planning Hon. Harshana Suriyapperuma, Deputy Minister of Public Security Hon. Sunil Watagala, and Deputy Minister of Labour Hon. Mahinda Jayasinghe, Hon. Members of Parliament and senior dignitaries.
The highlight of the evening was an electrifying performance by the Indian Council of Cultural Relations (ICCR) nominated Indian artist Angaraag Mahanta, well known as Papon. An award-winning Bollywood playback singer, Papon is a multifaceted musical genius— he is a singer, multi-instrumentalist, composer, record producer, and live performer. ‘Papon Live’ left the audience enthralled with his versatile mix of Indian folk, classical, and contemporary musical compositions.
In a display of the rich cultural affinity between India and Sri Lanka, the evening commenced with a dynamic opening act titled ‘Swasthi’. The renowned Sri Lankan percussionist Mr. Ravibandhu Vidyapathi and his team showcased Indian melodies, including India’s National Song, ‘Vande Matram’ with the vibrant rhythm and traditional sounds of Sri Lanka.
This musical extravaganza saw an enthusiastic gathering of over a thousand guests, including members of defence and civil services of Sri Lanka, members of diplomatic corps, academia, members of business and media communities, Indian diaspora and friends of India. The overwhelming response from the audience reflected the deep fondness and cultural connect between the people of the two countries.
