‘Taste of Sri Lanka’ fest at LuLu stores showcases culinary gems, cultural values

Culinary delights and cultural values, among other highlights, are taking the spotlight during this year’s edition of the ‘Taste of Sri Lanka’ festival, which was inaugurated Saturday at LuLu Hypermarket, Ain Khaled branch.The annual event has been organised by LuLu Group in co-operation with the embassy of Sri Lankan in Qatar to mark the country’s 75th Independence Day. Sri Lankan ambassador Mohamed Mafaz Mohideen led the ribbon-cutting ceremony in the presence of Dr Mohamed Althaf, director of LuLu Group International.Other VIPs and dignitaries present during the opening rites included Naser Mohamed J al-Marri, chairman of Doha International Consulting (DIC); Ishan Final, CEO & GM of DIC; Charith Jayasena, COO, Al Harib Security Systems; Kumudu Fonseka, chairman, Board of Trustees, Stafford Sri Lankan School Doha; and Kashayapa Ukwatte, minister counsellor at the Sri Lankan embassy.LuLu Group is celebrating ‘Taste of Sri Lanka’ to promote the South Asian nation’s unique culinary heritage, diverse culture and values, and colonial influences, which were handed down for generations.The festival, which is being held at all LuLu stores across Qatar until February 10, showcases the best-quality Sri Lankan ethnic products, a wide range of grocery items, and other agricultural and organic produce.The celebrations will also promote traditional Sri Lankan dances performed by students from Stafford Sri Lankan School and Dinu Dance Academy, along with other cultural programmes, thereby creating an ambiance that is reminiscent of the country’s rich culture and tradition.Aside from culture, heritage and cuisine, the festival is also highlighting the longstanding Qatar-Sri Lanka business ties and Sri Lanka’s top export-quality products targeting both Qatari citizens and expatriate communities.On the sidelines of the festival, Mohideen emphasised that the festival is offering a wide range of authentic Sri Lankan products, including organic and superfoods imported by LuLu Group."I am grateful to LuLu Group for all the support it is extending in promoting Sri Lankan products not only in Qatar but also across the GCC. They are one of our strongest supporters,” Mohideen pointed out.