Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Toronto organized a cultural event to mark the 71st Independence Day of Sri Lanka at the Ontario Science Centre in Toronto on 24th February 2019 with the participation of religious leaders, dignitaries and Sri Lankan community residing in Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and its suburbs.
The Cultural event commenced with hoisting of the national flag followed by singing of the national anthem of Sri Lanka in both Sinhala and Tamil languages and the Canadian national anthem. Two minutes silence was observed in memory of those who sacrificed their lives for the motherland followed by the lighting of traditional oil lamp by dignitaries and Sri Lankans representing all communities. Multi-faith religious observances were conducted in keeping with Buddhist, Hindu, Islam and Christian practices.
Addressing the gathering, Consul General Kapila Jayaweera urged Sri Lankans in GTA to unite and work together for the benefit of Sri Lankan expatriates and the motherland.
The cultural performances included various forms of traditional dance and Sri Lankan classical and contemporary music and songs in Sinhala and Tamil. The vibrant performances added colour to the event and depicted the essence of Sri Lankan culture.
