National Day in Sri Lanka

What is National Day?

After the British took over, Sri Lanka became independent on February 4, 1948. It is a day off for everyone in Sri Lanka. Ceremonies to raise the flag, dances, parades, and cultural events are held all over the country. President Obama raises the American flag and says something on national TV in front of a live audience.

Throughout its history, Sri Lanka has fought many times for its independence. However, people remember the uprising against the British occupiers the most clearly. On July 4, we remember and honor the people who fought for our freedom.

On this day in history, the President of the United States asks the country's people to remember the government's successes with him and talks about significant problems. Then, in honor of Sri Lanka's national heroes, the President holds a two-minute moment of silence.

A military parade is also much fun to watch. In the past few years, the army, the navy, the air force, the police, and the civil defense have been displayed. And the people of Sri Lanka remember the bravery, unity, and desire to bring peace to their country.

National Day - All Quick Overview

• Time/Date: February 4, annually
• Category: Federal
• Where It’s Marked: Sri Lanka
• Why It’s Marked: The day commemorated the independence of the country from Great Britain in 1948

History Of National Day

In 1948, when Sri Lanka got rid of the British, D.S. Senanayake was chosen as the country's first prime minister. He led Sri Lanka's fight for independence and was the country's first president. The head of state at the time was Queen Elizabeth's governor.

As a member of the Commonwealth, Ceylon had a monarchy that Queen Elizabeth II ran until 1972. In 1972, Sri Lanka's first president, William Gopallawa, was chosen. So, the governor accomplished his job.

How to Celebrate National Day

People also sang and danced to show the country's unity and pride in its culture. Many places of worship all over the country hold services where people pray for the country, its people, and the three forces. Aside from that, the national media tries to teach people values like bravery, self-confidence, commitment, national unity, and patriotism.

A 21-gun salute is usually given to the country by the Sri Lanka Navy's ceremonial naval gun battery at the Colombo Lighthouse. Since 2013, the event has been marked by a Google Doodle that can only be seen in Sri Lanka.

On National Day, Sri Lankans get together to celebrate their national identity and culture and remember when they got rid of British colonial rule.

1. Music

On Sri Lanka's National Day, locals and tourists can enjoy folk music from Sri Lanka. It is a chance to learn about how people live in Sri Lanka. Colorful dances often accompany traditional music like this.

2. Talks and Discussions 

On National Day, many different talks are given at various universities. During these talks, Sri Lankan history, colonialism, and the country's independence are often talked about.

3. Food and Beverages 

On National Day, people living in Sri Lanka and visiting the country often try different kinds of food and tea. Sri Lanka's most important export is tea. Fruits and legumes are essential parts of Sri Lankan food. So it shouldn't be surprising that tea is the main focus of samples on National Tea Day.

Many Sri Lankans see the flag as a sign of national pride and go to military parades to show their support. Sri Lankans can show how much they respect the country's living and dead heroes by participating in this event.

Countries that Observe National day

National Day is celebrated worldwide.

Interesting Facts About National Day

• Drinking alcohol is publicly banned on that day.
• The Sri Lankan war of independence was a nonviolent one.

National Day Quotes

• Happy Sri Lankan Independence Day. May the glory of Independence be with us forever! Let's celebrate the spirit of Sri Lanka altogether.
• Happy Sri Lankan Independence Day.
• Feel the pride of being a part of such a glorious Nation. Here are my warm wishes for this auspicious day.
• Be the cause of unity. Fight against corruption—flair the flag of our nation; Happy Sri Lankan Independence Day.
• Celebrate the day with a bunch of silent prayers for those who have made it possible for us to live in a free nation. Happy Sri Lankan Independence Day.
• Carried with care, coated with pride, dipped in love, fly in glory, moments of freedom in shade of joy. Proud to be an Indian. Happy Sri Lankan Independence Day.
• Happy Sri Lankan Independence Day. Saluting those who made it possible. Let us rejoice the happiness and indulge ourselves in the celebration.
• Let us make this day our inspiration to stand high and mighty. Be proud to be a Sri Lankan. Happy Sri Lankan Independence Day.
• Freedom is one of the most expensive commodities. No amount of money will be enough to buy space. Happy Sri Lankan Independence Day.
• Happy Sri Lankan Independence Day. It is the result of the sacrifices and struggles of many brave. Let us reverence them today.

FAQ

1. What kinds of foods are served during National Day?

Fruits, legumes, and tea are essential to the national day celebration.

2. Is alcohol allowed during the festival?

Publicly consuming alcohol is banned on that day. But anyone can have them in their private space.

3. What are the places of worship in Sri Lanka?

Some of the mentionable places to worship in Sri Lanka are: Wolvendaal Church; Japanese Peace Pagoda, Unawatuna; Kelaniya Raj Maha Vihara, Colombo.