Kekirawa, Anuradhapura — Celebrating Sri Lanka's rich artistic tradition, the Shri Hela Higher Education Academy—jointly operated by the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) and the Shri Hela Cultural Collaboration Foundation (SHCCF)—partnered with the Maradankadawala Nishantha Sangith Nawarangana Art Institute (Reg. No: SHCCF/Art Institute/00012/24) to host the prestigious "Wes and Pahimpath Kalaeli Festival."
The vibrant event took place on Sunday, May 19, 2024, at the Hela Bojun Hala Hall in Maradankadawala, located within the Kekirawa Divisional Secretariat Division of the North Central Province.
Empowering Young Dancers with Free Fine Arts Education
The festival featured talented students from several villages across the Kekirawa Secretariat Division who completed rigorous training in traditional dance.
Under the leadership of Mr. Nishantha Sanjeewa, Zonal Director for the North Central Province of SHCCF and Volunteer Coordinator for the IHRC, free dance instruction was provided by him and his dedicated teaching staff to ensure children in the region have access to quality fine arts education regardless of financial barriers.
Recognition and Multilateral Support
A collective of prominent human rights and youth empowerment organizations—including the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC), Shri Hela Cultural Collaboration Foundation (SHCCF), Lanka Human Rights Organization, All Christian Rights Protection Organization, Kuveni Woman and Children Rights Protection Foundation, and the Sri Lankan Youth Api Foundation—jointly awarded certificates of completion to the young performers.
Addressing the audience, Dr. Chrishantha J.K.M. Dissanayake, Sri Lankan Commissioner of the IHRC and Founder / President / Director General of both the SHCCF and the Shri Hela Higher Education Academy, commended the students' perseverance. He encouraged the youth to leverage the educational and developmental support provided by the IHRC and SHCCF to build bright, prosperous futures.
Distinguished Guests and Spiritual Blessings
The event was graced by notable administrative and community leaders, including:
Dr. Chrishantha J.K.M. Dissanayake (Sri Lankan Commissioner, IHRC / Founder, President & Director General, SHCCF & Shri Hela Higher Education Academy)
IHRC Coordinators: Mr. Chaminda Nishantha, Mr. Hemantha Vitharana, and Mr. Dhammika Sisira Kumara
Local Officials: The Divisional Secretary of Kekirawa, the District Cultural Officer, the Anuradhapura Youth Service Officer, and the O.I.C. of the Maradankadawala Police Division
The spiritual ceremony was blessed by venerable Buddhist monks, including the Secretary of the Kekirawa Sasanarakshaka Balamandala and the Chief Incumbent of Kabharewa Piriven Vihara, who offered religious discourses (Anushasana) and spiritual blessings to all attendees and students.
