The 62nd Anniversary of the Independence of Sri Lanka was celebrated on 04th February 2009 at the premises of Sri Lanka Deputy High Commission in Chennai. 

As per the tradition carried out for so many years, early in the morning an alms-giving was held for Ven. Maha Sanga from Sri Lanka Maha Bodhi Centre in Chennai.

The official celebration of 62nd Anniversary of Sri Lanka’s Independence in Chennai was inaugurated with lighting of traditional oil lamp.  Then Mr. Vadivel Krishnamoorthy, the Deputy High Commissioner for Sri Lanka in Southern India hoisted the National Flag amidst of peels of Magul Bera and Coach Shell blowing followed by Jaya Mangala Gatha.

Thereafter, religious dignitaries representing Buddhist, Christian, Hindu and Islamic faiths offered blessings and prayers for Sri Lanka and its citizens and prayed for a united, peaceful and a prosperous future for our motherland. 

H.E. the President Mahinda Rajapaksa’s National Day address was also telecasted at the event.  Addressing the nation he gave an assurance that he will use his fresh mandate to regain what the island has lost during the war.   While noting that this is the first celebration since the defeat of terrorism, President Rajapaksa also said that he will rebuild the country, specially the areas which were devastated during the 30 year conflict. 

Afterwards, the Deputy High Commissioner for Sri Lanka in Southern India, Mr. Vadivel Krishnamoorthy addressing the invitees, stated that “After three long decades, we are celebrating the independence in its truest form, independence from colonial clutches, and independence from terror and fear.”  Referring to the words of late Rt. Honorable D.S. Senanayake, uttered on that historic day of 04th February 1948 that “Independence was obtained to reduce suffering and increase happiness amongst people, without any discrimination on grounds of race, political affiliation, religion, caste or gender”, the Deputy High Commissioner stated that today we have achieved greater freedom and it is not for any single community, but for all in Sri Lanka.  History has shown us that when we are united, we progress.  Now is our second chance for the repetition, to stand united for a better tomorrow. 

He also stated that as a Sri Lankan  he is so proud to say that peace and harmony now prevail upon Sri Lanka and now, our terror free country is on its fast track to be a prosperous, flourishing and a truly bountiful land. Sri Lanka remains one of the most attractive investment destinations in the Asia Pacific Region and is accelerating towards fulfilling the Millennium Development Goals at a record speed.

The Deputy High Commissioner reaching out to the Sri Lankan community in Southern India urged them to consider the Deputy High Commission as their “Maha Gedara” or “Thaiveedu” in India and affirmed that the Deputy High Commission and its officers are dedicated to serve them and would also like to share their tears and smile. 

Following the address by the Deputy High Commissioner, the gathering was treated to traditional Sri Lankan delicacies, including Kevum, Kiribath and Kokis.

SRI LANKA DEPUTY HIGH COMMISSION
CHENNAI

04TH FEBRUARY 2010