Students of the Palmy Dhamma School and the Palmy Young Buddhist Association have a display at the Central Library to celebrate Sri Lanka's Independence Day! Thank you to Shaquil who has written this piece below to explain why the 4th of February is such a significant day for the community.
Independence Day in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka gained its independence from the British Empire on the 4th of
February 1948. Sri Lanka had been ruled by the British empire for over 150
years, starting in 1796. Even though Sri Lanka gained independence they
became a dominion under the British monarchy and eventually a republic
in 1972.
The first prime minister was Don Stephen Senayake. He is also known as
the father of the nation. The first president of the nation was William
Gopallawa. He was the person who changed the name from Ceylon to Sri
Lanka
Every year on February the 4th every Sri Lanken celebrates independence
day. Some of the traditions are getting together with friends and family to
enjoy some milk rice lunumiris, climbing the greasy pole, going to pray at
the temple or to go watch the traditional dances, music and performances.
The main independence day event is held at the Independence square in
Colombo. This event includes parades, military displays, fireworks and 21
gun salutes.
This year in 2026 it will be the 78th year of independence for Sri Lanka
which is a huge milestone for the country.
Sri Lankan Independence Day serves as a day to honor national heroes,
showcase cultural heritage and promote national unity. The importance of
Sri Lanka's independence day is to remember the people who fought for
our country to gain our independence to become a free country.
By Shaquil Yohan Hewage
Year 10
Palmerston North Boys High School
Palmy Young Buddhist Association
