- On 05 February, 2024
Celebration of 76th National Independence Day by the Sri Lanka Embassy in Kathmandu, Nepal
The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Kathmandu marked the 76th Anniversary of Sri Lanka’s Independence Day by conducting the flag hoisting ceremony on 04th February 2024 morning at the Embassy premises and by hosting a Diplomatic Reception on 04th February 2024 at Hotel Vivanta in Kathmandu.
On 04th February morning, the event commenced with the hoisting of the National Flag by His Excellency Air Chief Marshal Sudarshana Pathirana (Retd), Ambassador of Sri Lanka to the Nepal, along with the National Anthem. In adherence to traditional rituals, religious observances representing Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, and Catholicism were conducted by Rev. Thissamaharamaye Pannasara Thero in Kathmandu, along with other esteemed religious dignitaries to invoke blessings not only upon all Sri Lankans but also upon the motherland itself.
The celebration continued with the delivery of the 76th National Independence Day Messages from His Excellency the President, the Honorable Prime Minister, and the Honorable Foreign Minister respectively. At the conclusion of the morning event, a customary food table was arranged for the participants with milk rice and variety of Sri Lankan sweets.
On the same day 04th February evening, the Embassy hosted a diplomatic reception for nearly 100 guests. The Vice President of Nepal Rt. Hon. Ramsahay Prasad Yadav as the chief guest, Senior Officials of the Foreign Ministry of Nepal, Officials from International Organizations, the Diplomatic Corps, Leading Businessmen, and Journalists graced the occasion with their participation at the hotel Vivanta in Kathmandu.
The event commenced by lighting the Sri Lankan traditional oil lamp. Delivering the welcome speech, Ambassador His Excellency Air Chief Marshal Sudarshana Pathirana (Retd), recalled the strong bilateral relations between the two countries and expressed Sri Lanka’s commitment to further enhance the friendly relations to reach the next level of cooperation.
The Nepal Army band graciously extended their support by creating a musical environment that enriched the evening's ambiance, offering all participants a delightful experience to cherish. An enjoyable arrangement of authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, featuring live stations showcasing the preparation of iconic Sri Lankan food such as Hoppers and Kottu, offered a unique culinary experience to all participants. The diverse and flavorful Sri Lankan food provided a unique opportunity for attendees to witness the artistry behind the creation of Sri Lankan cuisines.
The event concluded with a sense of admiration towards the vibrant nature of Sri Lanka’s culture, traditions, and its heritage.
Sri Lanka Embassy
Kathmandu, Nepal
