Tamils must act to preserve cultural values- Semmanan

[TamilNet, Monday, 01 November 2004, 11:54 GMT]
"The Sri Lanka Army (SLA) in occupation in Jaffna district is engaged in attempts to destroy our freedom struggle by degrading our cultural values. We should all be alert to defeat this enemy and join hands to safeguard our cultural identity and values" said Mr.Semmanan, Deputy Political Head of the Liberation Tigers in Jaffna district addressing the final event of the two-day Divisional Cultural Festival held Sunday at Karaveddy Predesiya Sabah hall, sources said.

Cultural Forum of the Vadamaradchchi South-West Division organised this event.

A well-known Tamil writer K.Nadesu (Theniyan) and Karaveddy Divisional Secretary Mr.S.Sathiaseelan presided the first and second days' events respectively.

Jaffna District Tamil National Alliance (TNA) Parliamentarian Ms Pathmini Sithamparanathan participated in the first day event. A book exhibition was also held.

Professor C.Mohanathas, Vice Chancellor of Jaffna University was the chief guest for the second day. Jaffna district TNA parliamentarians Mr.S.Gajendran and K.Sivanesan also participated.

Veteran artists and Tamil schools Mr. Kandiah Nadesu (Theniyan), Mr.Kathir Thanigasalam, Brammasiri Panchanatha Sarma, Mr.Alvapillai Cumaraswamy, Ms Saroja Thamotharampillai were honoured with awards at the conclusion of the festival, sources said.