The High Commission of Sri Lanka in London hosted a reception fostering community engagement on 09 February 2025 to commemorate the 77th anniversary of the independence of Sri Lanka. The event, held in London for the first time, was held at the Sarah Siddon’s Theatre, City of Westminster College’s Paddington Green Campus, bringing together members of the Sri Lankan community and friends of Sri Lanka, to celebrate the nation’s rich cultural heritage. The official Independence Day speech by President Anura Kumara Disanayaka was played at the commencement of the programme.
As part of the event, a vibrant cultural segment showcased Sri Lankan artistic traditions, with a performance of a traditional Kandyan dance by the Kandyan Dancers Company, a Bharathanatyam dance by the Branava Nartanalaya and songs by the Rupavahini Muthuhara Children’s Society UK 2515. The event also featured a fusion dance conducted by Kandyan and Bharathanatyam dancers.
The cultural performances were interspersed with speeches by prominent community leaders, Dr. Mohan Siriwardena, Kanagaratnam Rajamenon Shakeer Nawas and Dr. Roshan Jayalath, representing the Buddhist, Hindu, Islamic, and Christian communities respectively. Their addresses reflected on the contributions of the Sri Lankan diaspora and the importance of fostering unity and harmony.
In her address, the Acting High Commissioner of Sri Lanka in London emphasized the Independence Day theme for this year “Towards a National Renaissance”. Reflecting on the nation's journey, she highlighted the resilience of the Sri Lankan people, the historical struggles that shaped independence, and the current government’s commitment to transparency, economic transformation, and sustainable development. Acknowledging the role of the Sri Lankan diaspora, she urged the community to actively contribute to the country’s progress, reinforcing the shared vision of a “Thriving Nation, Beautiful Life”.
The event was attended by over 350 members of the Sri Lankan community, friends of Sri Lanka and well-wishers.
High Commission of Sri Lanka
London
13 February 2025
