'Maathra' has dazzled audiences for over 11 years, since its beginnings in 2008, the cultural dancing event redefined school shows. Initiated by Mr. Rasika Kothalawala with the support of Dr. Mohan Lal Grero - the Founder of Lyceum International School and Dr. Kumari Grero - Coordinating Principal of Lyceum International School, the school production has progressed to become the biggest cultural performance show by any school in the country, the impressive production made its comeback after 4 years to excite audiences with ‘Maathra 12’. This was the first show after a 4-year hiatus that was brought on due to the unexpected COVID-19 pandemic and the eventual economic crisis.

The 12th Maathra concert was held at BMICH, where a total of 705 dancers from Lyceum Nugegoda, Panadura, Wattala, Ratnapura, Gampaha, Nuwara Eliya, Anuradhapura, and Kurunegala branches performed on stage. A total of 65 teachers were involved in the production guided by Chief Coordinator Mrs. Nisha Kothalawala and Mr. Rasika Kothalawala as Chief Advisor. Each performance was as brilliant as the last with specially composed music, bespoke costumes, jewellery, hair and makeup. Maathra 12 took place on the 14th of October at BMICH. The event was attended by many eminent artists and experts in the field of art and dance. Both shows were attended by patrons of cultural dance and the students’ families who thoroughly enjoyed the performances on stage.

The performances were stellar and the students were better than ever despite the long hiatus, the alumni students also had several performances which were equally impressive despite having moved on from school and taken a break from dancing. The collective hard work of the teachers, students, alumni, and the overall organising committee was evident throughout. Maathra 12 was an example of exemplary discipline and love for the craft instilled by the Head of Dancing for Lyceum International School and his team of dedicated teachers, as well as Dr. Mohan Lal Grero and Dr. Kumari Grero who believe in inculcating a love of Sri Lankan culture amongst the students.

The esteemed Founder, Dr. Mohan Lal Grero spoke to all present stating, “Cultural dancing is an inspired method to engrave Sri Lankan culture and tradition into the blood and bones of the students to inculcate a love for the craft and one’s cultural traditions and identity”. He also proceeded to thank Mrs. Nisha Kothalawala, Mr. Rasika Kothalawala and Dr. Kumari Grero, the rest of the Maathra team, the students, and especially the parents for the dedication and commitment of 12 months of preparation leading up to the successful event. Supporting the Maathra 12 event were Platinum Sponsor Asriel Holdings, Gold Sponsor Royal Institute of Colombo, Bronze Sponsor Sampath Bank, and Special Sponsor DSI. The Maathra Media Partner was Dream Team with Tech Partner Zuse Technologies. The support for the show was immense and with the success of this year’s Maathra, Lyceum International School and the Maathra team looks forward to organising Maathra 13 in 2024.