Sri Lanka to celebrate 66th year of Independence today in Kegalle
Tuesday, 4 February 2014 00:01
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Sri Lanka’s 66th Independence Day Ceremony will be held in Kegalle today under the patronage of President Mahinda Rajapaksa.
The celebrations in Kegalle will be held under the theme ‘Ekwa Godanagamu Lowa Dinana Deshayak’ (let us unite to build a world-winning country).
Arrangements have been made to hold all religious observances in Kegalle District in line with the National Independence Day which brings all nations in Sri Lanka under one flag. Accordingly, Buddhist religious observances will be held at Wewaladeniya Temple, Kegalle and Hindu religious observances will be held at Kadirawelaudam Kalie Kovil, Kegalle.
Muslim religious observances will be held at Muhiyaddeen Jumma Mosque, while Kegalle and Catholic religious observances will be held at St. Mary’s Church, Kegalle. Christian religious observances will be held at Sri Lanka Christian Reformist Assembly, Meepitiya and Kegalle.
In addition, a large number of Buddhist priests and religious leaders of other religions will participate in the Independence Day celebrations, symbolising the invincibility and sacredness of the nation of Sri Lanka. Many ministers and members of elected bodies, high commissioners and ambassadors will also participate in this ceremony.
High-ranking officials including the Heads of the tri-forces, Police and Civil Security Force who provide utmost protection to our motherland as brave and proud guardians of the nation will participate in this ceremonial event. Significantly, 55 disabled war heroes will also participate.
The military parade of the tri-forces which adds the distinction and elegance to the Independence Day Ceremony will comprise of 1,400 Army Officers, 250 Navy Officers, 250 Air Force Officers, 250 Police Officers, 250 Members of the Civil Defence Force, 325 Cadets of the National Cadets Force and 300 Members of the National Youth Corps.
All arrangements have been made to add 16 beautiful cultural acts for the cultural pageant which showcases the cultural diversity of a rich nation. Moreover, at this ceremony 110 students of the schools in Kegalle District will recite the National Anthem of Sri Lanka, celebrating the nation’s pride, while 25 students representing four schools in the district will recite the Jayamangala and Prarthana stanzas for the blessings of the country.
Coloured flags will be hoisted in the city of Kegalle, adding glamour to the celebrations. Arrangements have been already made to provide all facilities required for the participants in the Independence Day celebration, including electricity, water, sanitary and first aid.
