“Pabala Mela" Extravaganza – 2023 Recap
The spectacular "Pabala Mela" extravaganza in 2023, meticulously organized by the 'Sri Lanka Light Infantry Association' (SLLIA), aimed at enhancing the welfare of serving, deceased, and disabled war heroes in the country. This mega entertainment event unfolded on the 22nd and 23rd of December 2023 at Hikkaduwa Public Grounds, captivating both locals and tourists in the area.
Highlighting the event were captivating performances by the Renowned Dancing Troupe of the Sri Lanka Army Directorate of Band & Performing Arts, accompanied by the lively music of 'Sahara Flash' and 'SANIDAPA' groups.
The SLLIA, the foremost and oldest military association in Sri Lanka, collaborated with the Sri Lanka Light Infantry Regiment to orchestrate the "Pabala Mela" 2023, an annual tradition, conducted for its ninth time, except it was suspended for two years due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Under the visionary leadership of retiree association Chairman General Daya Ratnayake (Retd) the event was reinvented, offering diverse entertainment as a token of appreciation to the communities that supported security forces during the war effort, ultimately bringing peace to the country in 2009.
The "Pabala Mela" has evolved into a Beloved Brand among the people of the Southern Province, particularly in Hikkaduwa, Balapitiya, Galle, and surrounding areas. The festival attracted residents, foreign and local tourists, leveraging the prevailing peaceful environment credited to the country's security forces and police.
The success of the festival is attributed to the unwavering commitment of SLLIA members, led by Colonel of the Regiment Maj Gen Sujeewa Hettiarchchi and Commandant Colonel Ruwan Siriwardane. This synergy was further fueled by the generous sponsorships of 'INSEE Cement Pvt Ltd' and 'Colombo International Container Terminal,' along with 318 other business institutions.
The two-day "Pabala Mela" festival at Hikkaduwa Public Stadium concluded triumphantly, symbolizing social harmony and community happiness. This corporate social endeavor by the Sri Lanka Army, spearheaded by the retirees' association with support from the Sri Lanka Light Infantry Regiment, stands as a testament to their ongoing commitment to peace.
The Sri Lanka Light Infantry Association expresses gratitude to Commander of the Army Lt Gen Vikum Liyanage and Secretary Defence Gen Kamal Gunarathne (Retd) for their invaluable assistance.
Looking ahead, the SLLIA anticipates the resonance of the "Pabala Mela" brand among the people of the south, as the event becomes a permanent fixture in the region's entertainment calendar in the coming years.