By Sujeeva Nivunhella reporting from London
For the first time in London, the High Commission of Sri Lanka in the United Kingdom hosted a special reception dedicated to community engagement in celebration of the nation’s 77th Independence Anniversary. The event, held at the Sarah Siddons Theatre at the City of Westminster College’s Paddington Green Campus, brought together over 350 members of the Sri Lankan community, friends of Sri Lanka, and well-wishers.
The commemoration commenced by playing the official Independence Day speech by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, setting the tone for an event that celebrated Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage, unity, and future aspirations.
The reception featured a vibrant cultural segment, showcasing Sri Lanka’s rich artistic traditions. It began with a traditional Kandyan dance performed by the Kandyan Dancers Company, followed by a Bharathanatyam performance by Branava Nartanalaya. The Rupavahini Muthuhara Children’s Society UK 2515 captivated the audience with a series of songs, while a fusion dance performance brought together elements of both Kandyan and Bharathanatyam styles, symbolizing unity in diversity.
Interspersed between performances were speeches from prominent community leaders, including Dr. Mohan Siriwardena (Buddhist community), Mr. Kanagaratnam Rajamenon (Hindu community), Mr. Shakeer Nawas (Islamic community), and Dr. Roshan Jayalath (Christian community). Each speaker reflected on the contributions of the Sri Lankan diaspora and the importance of fostering unity and harmony within the community.
In her keynote address, the Acting High Commissioner Manori Mallikarachchi emphasized this year’s Independence theme, ‘Towards a National Renaissance,’ highlighting the resilience of the Sri Lankan people and the nation’s journey through historical struggles toward independence. She underscored the government’s commitment to transparency, economic transformation, and sustainable development, while also calling upon the Sri Lankan diaspora to actively contribute to the nation’s progress.
“The story of Sri Lanka’s independence is one of resilience and hope. As we mark our 77th year, we do so with a renewed sense of purpose,” she stated, acknowledging the role of key historical figures such as Gongalegoda Banda, Veera Puran Appu, Anagarika Dharmapala, Arumugar Navalar, and C.W.W. Kannangara in shaping the nation’s identity and independence movement.
Reflecting on the nation’s post-independence journey, the Acting High Commissioner addressed the challenges Sri Lanka has faced, including the prolonged civil conflict and the economic crisis of 2022. She commended the resilience of the people and expressed confidence in the leadership of President Dissanayake, whose policies emphasize transparency, accountability, and inclusive development.
The event’s success was made possible through the generous sponsorship of Sri Lankan Tamil-owned enterprises such as Regent Group UK, Leaf Hotels Group, Sky Wings, Bala Letting, and Home Care Group, along with Bank of Ceylon, De La Rue, and Capital Metals.
