Sri Lanka: Day Five

During each distribution a special element of the opening ceremonies was the lighting of the oil lamp. This is an old Sri Lankan tradition for special occasions, celebrations and festivals. The oil lamps came in different sizes, shapes and constructed from various materials, such as tree branches, bamboo, clay and brass.

The traditional brass cockerel is very significant to the Sri Lankan people as it the national emblem.

Each oil lamp was also ornately decorated with an array of beautiful flowers such as frangipani and lotus. What made the lighting of the lamp so significant was the underlining meaning behind it - the symbol of unity.

Each member that lit the lamp played a significant role in the distribution, (the SCAW team, the Rotarians, the army , the principals, teachers and students) coming together for a truly amazing cause: the children.

Team Sri Lanka 2012

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