The Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka to the United Nations celebrated Sri Lanka’s 64 th anniversary of Independence in Staten Island, New York along with the Sri Lankans in the Tri-State area. Over 850 Sri Lankan expatriates and friends attended the event. The attendees were treated to a memorable evening by the distinguished musical maestro, Prof. Sanath Nandasiri and his wife Malkanthi Nandasiri. In addition, music and dance performances were provided by the Sri Lankan communities in New York, the state of New Jersey and Connecticut.
The Permanent Representative Ambassador Dr. Palitha Kohona was assisted by Ambassador Major General Shavendra Silva, the Deputy Permanent Representative in hoisting of the national flag. The national anthem was sung by the gathering, which was followed by the “jayamangala gatha”. His Excellency the President Mahinda Rajapaksa’s Independence Day address was broadcasted following the traditional observances.
Addressing the gathering Dr. Palitha Kohona, stated that “ Those Sri Lankans who live overseas have a seminal contribution to make as the nation forges ahead. We will be judged by the world not for highlighting our differences but for emphasizing our unity. Internationally we must stand united as we build bridges and foster understanding.Furthermore, The United States has contributed much to Sri Lanka’s development since independence and all of us must work at strengthening the people to people bonds between our states further. As Sri Lankans we must stand together and face the world as a united nation ”
Following blessings by the Buddhist, Christian, Hindu and Islamic religious dignitaries, the cultural event which lasted over 90 minutes began with a traditional “kothuvam dance”. The other items in the cultural repertoire included dances and songs in Sinhala, and English. Professor Sanath Nadasiri and Malkanthi Nandasiri brought nostalgic comfort to the Sri Lankan audience living in New York by singing such classics as “Magè Ratata” and “Bo maluwe”. It was a truly rewarding evening of celebrations.
Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka to the United Nations
New York
