75th Anniversary of Sri Lanka's independence on 4th February 2023

The High Commission of Sri Lanka in the UK with the generous sponsorship of BoardPac Ltd, De La Rue, Lion Beer, Elephant House beverages, Munchee Biscuits, Basilur Tea, Baraka, Silver Mill, Wichy Plantation, Jenvas Ltd, Palmyra Development Board, Traccular, Information and Communication Technology Agency (ICTA) and SriLankan Airlines organised an event to commemorate the 75th Anniversary of Sri Lanka's independence on 4th February 2023. A cross-section of the British Sri Lankan community including representatives of Sri Lankan Associations based in the UK attended the event.

The day's proceedings commenced with the singing of the national anthem by children of the members of the Council of Muslim Organisations UK (COSMOS). Mutifath religious observances were performed by the respective religious leaders based in the UK. The national day messages of President Ranil Wickremesinghe, Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena and Foreign Minister Ali Sabry were read by the diplomatic officers of the Mission.
The children of Muthuhara Rupavahini UK added colour to the event by singing "wasi wasina ahasa api" and "mage ratata dalada himi sewanai" and two Bharatanatyam items were performed by performers of Kalasagara UK.

Addressing the gathering, High Commissioner Saroja Sirisena invited the Sri Lankan community in the UK to contribute towards the development of the motherland in a manner that is mutually beneficial; to visit Sri Lanka, buy Sri Lankan export products & consider investing in the country that had provided the foundation for their success in the UK.

The highlight of the programme was the SriLankan Airlines raffle draw. The lucky winner took away two return air tickets to Colombo .
Upon conclusion of the official ceremony, the guests were treated to Sri Lankan food and beverage.