The festival took place from March 3 to March 8, with the participation of 10 traditional folk art groups from 5 countries around the world. “Mathra” emerged as the overall champions of the event, bringing great honor to Sri Lanka.
In addition to the team’s overall victory, individual excellence was also recognized. Malki Imasha of the Mathra Dance Troupe won the Gold Medal for Best Female Dancer, while Madhuka Kavishan claimed the Gold Medal for Best Male Dancer at the festival.
The award-winning performance presented by the troupe was a unique fusion of Udarata, Pahatharata, and Sabaragamuwa traditional Sri Lankan dance styles, highlighting the country’s rich and diverse cultural heritage.
Following their success, the Mathra Dance Troupe returned to Sri Lanka on March 8 at 9:50 PM, arriving at Bandaranaike International Airport, Katunayake, from Chennai, India, aboard IndiGo flight 6E-1173.
The victorious dancers were warmly welcomed at the airport by their parents, well-wishers, and officials, including Tharindu Dhananjaya, Chairman of the Sri Lanka International Folk Arts Organization.
This remarkable achievement marks another proud moment for Sri Lankan performing arts on the global stage.