Sri Lanka celebrates 72 years of Independence |04 February 2020
Today marks 72 years since Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) broke free from British colonial rule. Celebrations will be presided over by the country’s 7th Executive President at the Independence Square, Colombo. Celebrations this year are held under the theme ‘A secured nation - a prosperous country’. Over 2,500 invitees and 1,000 members of the public are expected to grace the official ceremony.
Sri Lankans celebrate this anniversary of independence on February 4 to mark the day internal political independence was granted by the British and when the country became a dominion in the Commonwealth of Nations. The development of the independence movement began in the early 20th century. Though, it was a peaceful movement led primarily by the educated middle class, this year we mark 105 years of the 1915 Ceylonese Riots that was brutally suppressed by the colonial authorities. Despite this setback, our ancestors were determined to end this centuries long foreign rule and dominance.
The colonial history of Sri Lanka dates back to the 16th century when the island of Ceylon was invaded by the Portuguese. In the 17th century, the Dutch got rid of the Portuguese settlers. However, after the Napoleonic War, the British managed to colonise the country ending the long line of Kings. Therefore, today back in 1948 brought a breath of fresh air to the people and a sense of freedom.
Independence Day celebrations in Sri Lanka thus, include a flag-hoisting ceremony, President's speech, parades, ceremonies, singing, and dancing that showcase the country’s culture and national unity. Many places of worship across Sri Lanka organise special religious ceremonies where people pray for prosperity and peace.
To mark this auspicious day, another activity taken this year is an island-wide tree-planting programme. This initiative is in line with the Sri Lankan Army’s beautification project launched in December 2019. This project is an addition to the island-wide beautification campaign that started in November 2019 by the citizens (schoolchildren, talented artists, professionals) of the country. The citizens took upon themselves to beautify the country, from clean-ups to wall art.
Meanwhile, in Seychelles, the community marks the 72nd Independence Day with an official ceremony at the Sri Lankan high commissioner's residence.
Contributed by Ruth Dinushi Mohotti