Celebrating rich and exotic culture of Sri Lanka with the intention of creating more awareness of Sri Lanka in Russia, the Sri Lankan Students Association of Tver State Medical Academy organized the annual cultural show "Nethra" on 25th April, 2009. The Sri Lankan Ambassador to Russia Mr. Udayanga Weerathunga, accompanied by his spouse Mrs. Uma Weerathunga, were invited to the event along with around 15 of the Embassy staff.

From the administration of Tver State Medical Academy Respected Chancellor Professor Kalinkin  M.N., President Professor Davydov  B.N., Vice Chancellor for International Students and Foreign Affairs Professor Bazhenov D.V., Vice Chancellor for Educational Affairs Doctor Kileynikov D.V. and Dean of the International College of Medical Education Professor Ivanov A. G. were present. Honorable guests from various countries, Russian teachers and students were also there to grace the occasion and contribute to its success.

A new addition to the show was the exhibition at 4pm. It involved various stalls displaying unique historical and architectural civilization of Sri Lanka not forgetting our traditional Sri Lankan dishes and globally famous tea.

The concert started at 5.30 pm in the Academy's main hall where in total 25 colorful shows were presented. The first of which was a documentary film (created keeping in mind our largely Russian audience) on Sri Lanka, dealing with both its respectable history and promising future.

Diverse dances from both Singhalese and Tamil cultures depicting their own styles were shown. Innovatively fresh ideas were also brought to the show, for example a dance which involved traditional dancing moves to modern Russian beats. Famous Sri Lankan plays such as "Jasaya & Lenchina" and "Salupaliya" were also enacted in Russian. Matters of the heart were also addressed, from the romantic rendezvous of young lovers to the more traditionally cultural weddings.

Sri Lankan fashion was tastefully shown not only through dances but also during the fashion show. Needless to say the show was well received by our honorable guests.

In addition we would also like to bring to your notice a special edition of "Nethra" magazine that is now available with articles presented by our students in English, Singhalese, Tamil, and Russian.