National Independence Day celebrations at Consulate General of Sri Lanka, Milan

The Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Milan celebrated the 72nd National Independence Day of Sri Lanka on 4 February at the Consulate General premises. 

The event commenced by hoisting the National Flag and singing the National Anthem and reciting Jayamangala Gatha. A two-minute silence was observed, remembering all heroes who sacrificed their lives for the freedom and unity of the country.

After lighting of the traditional oil lamp and, conducting multi-religious observances of Buddhism, Hinduism, Islamic and Catholicism, the messages of the President, the Prime Minister and the Minister of Foreign Affairs were read. 

A patriotic song was sung by a group of children from Sathsara Rangayathanaya in Milan. The Acting Consul General addressed the gathering, emphasising on the importance of the unity of all Sri Lankans including the Sri Lankans living in Italy, for the development and progress of the motherland.  The event was participated by Nayaka Theros of all Buddhist Temples, which comes under the jurisdictional region of the Consulate, Hindu, Islam and Catholic religious leaders, a cross-section of Sri Lankan community members, belonging to all ethnicities and religions, and also principals, teachers, and students, belong to the three Sri Lanka origin International schools in Milan, including Bloom International College, St. Joseph International College and Vidura International College.  The event was concluded, with a breakfast reception offered to the Sri Lankan community and a dana offered to the clergy.