The 77th anniversary of the Independence of Sri Lanka was commemorated by the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Yangon on 04 February 2025 at the Embassy premises, with the participation of the Sri Lankan community in Myanmar, staff of the Embassy and their family members.
A Buddha Puja and an alms giving to the Venerable Theros from Myanmar and Sri Lanka, including Most Ven. Aggamaha Panditha Nagasenabhivamsa Thero and Chief Incumbent of Aukana Raja Maha Vihara, Most Ven. Sastrawelliye Dhammakiththi Thero were conducted.
The official ceremony started with the hoisting of the National Flag of Sri Lanka, followed by the singing of the national anthem, and the reciting of jayamangala gatha. A two-minute silence was observed, honouring the heroes who sacrificed their lives for the country. Religious dignitaries including Maha Sangha, Hindu, Islam and Christian Priests conducted multi faith religious observances, invoking blessings on the country, the government and the people. The messages of the President, Prime Minister and the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism were read out.
Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Myanmar, Prabashini Ponnamperuma, after welcoming the gathering, explained the development initiatives and policy directives of the government, the official work carried out by the Embassy and its achievements during the past year. She also provided a brief explanation of one of the major programmes of the government, “Clean Sri Lanka”, using a PowerPoint presentation.
The cultural performance by the Cultural Troupe of Aukana Rajamaha Viharaya, Sri Lanka, led by the veteran dancer and dancing Instructor of Galnewa Maha Vidyalaya, Pradeep Kumarasinghe added vibrancy to the event. The event concluded with the serving of traditional Sri Lankan cuisine to all the attendees and offering gifts and tokens to the performers.
Embassy of Sri Lanka
Yangon
11 February 2025
