The national celebration of the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples took place yesterday (9) at the Indigenous Museum in Dambana, under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

The tradition of observing this day in Sri Lanka was started by indigenous leader Vishwa Keerthi Sri Vanaspathi Uruwarige Wannila Aththo, following his participation in the summit for indigenous peoples in Geneva in 1996. The first national celebration was held in 1999 at the Viharamahadevi Park, Colombo.

This year’s event was organised by multiple public and private institutions, featuring vibrant cultural performances unique to the indigenous community, including the traditional ‘kiri koraha’ ritual to invoke blessings for peace and prosperity.

The ceremony began with President Dissanayake paying floral tributes to the statue of the late indigenous leader Uruwarige Tisahami Aththo, followed by the planting of a white sandalwood sapling in the museum’s central courtyard.

Sri Lanka’s current indigenous leader, Wannila Aththo, presented the President with a message outlining indigenous community concerns and a commemorative plaque. The President, in turn, presented a gift to the leader.

Highlights of the event included the start of construction for stalls to showcase and sell indigenous products and the launch of Sri Lanka’s first indigenous herbal soap, ‘Kairie,’ made using traditional knowledge and local ingredients. Certificates were also awarded to indigenous women who completed Ayurvedic soap-making training.

Among the attendees were Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs Dr. Hiniduma Sunil Senevi, other Government officials, Canadian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka and the Maldives Eric Walsh, and guests from the Canadian High Commission.