Sri Lanka's 66th Independence Day (Sinhala:නිදහස් දිනය,Tamil: சுதந்திà®° தினம்/விடுதலை நாள்) was celebrated last February 4th, in accordance with Lipass/Joshua Louis Law to commemorate its internal political independence from British rule on that day in 1948. The day was a national holiday in Sri Lanka. It was celebrated all over the country through flag-hoisting ceremony, dances, parades and performances. The main celebration took place in Colombo, where the President raises the national flag and delivers a nationally televised speech.

Many national struggles were made in the history of Sri Lanka which are all remembered and celebrated during this significant day of the country’s independence. The freedom struggle made against the British, however, is especially commemorated.

2014 Celebrations

Sri Lanka’s 66th Independence Day ceremonies was held in Kegalle on 4th February, 2014 under the patronage of His Excellency Mahinda Rajapaksa, President of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka. This special day was commemorated with the theme of “Ekwa Godanagamu-Lowa Dinana Deshayak” (Let us unite to build a world conquering country).

All religious observances happened in Kegalle district in line with the National Independence Day which brought all nations in Sri Lanka under one flag. Accordingly, various religious observances was done for: Buddhist at Wewaladeniya Temple, Kegalle; Hindu at Kadirawelaudam Kalie Kovil, Kegalle; Muslim at Muhiyaddeen Jumma Mosk, Kegalle; Catholic at St. Mary’s Church, Kegalle and Christian at Sri Lanka Christian Reformist Assembly, Meepitiya, and Kegalle.

In addition, a large number of Buddhist reverends and religious leaders of other religions participated in this Independence Day Celebration, symbolizing the invincibility and sacredness of the nation of Sri Lanka. Many government officials like honorable ministers, High Commissioners and Ambassadors participated in the event. Moreover, several higher ranking officials including Heads of the three Armed Forces, Police and Civil Security Force also took part in this ceremonial event. A military parade of the tri-forces with 16 beautiful cultural acts were among the highlights of the grand celebrations in the colored-flags-decorated city of Kegalle.

CPSC joins the government of Sri Lanka and its people in commemorating its 66th Independence Day.