The 78th Independence Day of India was celebrated with great fervour in different parts of Sri Lanka on 15 August 2024. The main event in Colombo was held at ‘India House’, official residence of the High Commissioner of India, Santosh Jha, who hoisted India’s National Flag and inspected the Guard of Honour. He also read excerpts of the address by the President of India to the nation, on the eve of the 78th Independence Day.
Several cultural events added vibrancy to the celebrations. The Sri Lanka Navy Band delivered melodious tunes, embodying valour and patriotism, while the visiting ICCR troupe from India, led by Ranjith Gogoi, captivated the audience with a soulful Bihu Dance performance. The High Commissioner and officers of the High Commission of India also paid homage at the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) Memorial, to the memory of the IPKF soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice defending peace and unity of Sri Lanka.
Special events were organized by the Assistant High Commission in Kandy, Consulate General in Jaffna and Consulate General in Hambantota as well, on the momentous occasion.
Later in the day, Bharat Sri Lanka Maitri Utsav 2024 – a four-day festival running from August 15 to 18, at the iconic Independence Square Park in Colombo will be inaugurated. The Utsav will showcase a traditional handicrafts exhibition featuring artisans from India and Sri Lanka, along with cultural performances and a food festival. The Utsav will remain open to the public till 10 pm on 18 August.
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