The Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Los Angeles commemorated the 78th Anniversary of the Independence of Sri Lanka with a solemn and vibrant official ceremony held on 4th February 2026 at the Scientology Celebrity Centre International, Hollywood, California. Director of International Relations, Policy and Protocol Office of the Mayor Honorable Karen Bass, City of Los Angeles participated at the national Independence Day celebrations representing the Government of the USA.
Sri Lankans representing a wide cross-section of the community participated in the event, including religious leaders of all faiths, representatives and members of Sri Lankan associations, members of the business community, students, and media personnel, reflecting the unity and diversity of the Sri Lankan diaspora in the United States.
The celebrations commenced with a trilingual introduction in Sinhala, Tamil and English, reflecting Sri Lanka’s rich multicultural heritage, followed by the unfurling of the National Flag of Sri Lanka accompanied by the traditional Magul Bera. The National Anthem of Sri Lanka and the National Anthem of the United States of America were performed by a group of students with due reverence. A minute of silence was observed in remembrance of Sri Lanka’s national heroes.
The ceremony continued with the lighting of the traditional oil lamp, with the participation of children representing the Sinhala, Tamil, Muslim, and Burgher communities, the key ethnic groups of Sri Lanka, symbolizing national unity. This was followed by multi-religious observances in the Buddhist, Hindu, Islamic, and Christian faiths, underscoring Sri Lanka’s long-standing tradition of religious harmony.
Addressing the gathering, Charitha Yattogoda, Acting Consul General of Sri Lanka in Los Angeles, delivered the National Day Address, highlighting the significance of independence, national unity, and Sri Lanka’s ongoing journey of resilience, recovery, and sustainable development. In his address, he underscored the economic progress achieved by Sri Lanka in the recent past and outlined the Government’s ongoing recovery efforts to address the challenges arising from the disaster situation caused by Cyclone DITWA. He also expressed appreciation for the timely assistance and solidarity extended by the Government of the United States, the Sri Lankan diaspora, and the international community in the United States during the emergency.
During the celebration, the National Day messages of H.E. the President of Sri Lanka, the Hon. Prime Minister, and the Hon. Minister of Foreign Affairs were read in Sinhala, Tamil and English respectively, reaffirming the Government of Sri Lanka’s commitment to inclusive growth, national reconciliation and continued engagement with overseas Sri Lankans.
The programme featured a series of cultural performances, including patriotic songs, traditional dance items of Sinhala and Tamil origin, drum performances, and piano recitals which further enriched the evening. Video presentations highlighting Sri Lanka’s tourism, trade, investment opportunities, and the national initiative on “Rebuilding Sri Lanka” were screened.
A symbolic financial donation of USD 21,500 collected by the Sri Lankan community led by Maithree Vihara in Sunvally/Los Angeles was also handed over in support of the Rebuilding Sri Lanka Fund, demonstrating the strong commitment of the Sri Lankans in Southern California towards national development efforts.
The official programme concluded with refreshments and fellowship among attendees. FINN TV USA, the first Sri Lankan terrestrial television channel in the United States, partnered with the event as the media partner and broadcasted the programme live.
The Consulate General extended its appreciation to the religious leaders, community leaders, artists and volunteers who contributed to the successful celebration of Sri Lanka’s 78th Independence Day in Los Angeles.
Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Los Angeles
10 February 2026
