70TH INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION - POLONNARUWA

In line with the National Celebration of 70^th Independence Day, Polonnaruwa District Celebration was held on 4^th of February in the premises of Royal College grounds Polonnaruwa with the coordination of Divisional Secretariat Plonnaruwa and Security Force Headquarters East to commemorate the independence from British rule in 1948.

The ceremony commenced with a colourful Vehicle Parade displaying the Sustainable Development Programmes of Polonnaruwa area. Then, the Chief Guest the Honourable Governor of the North Central Province Mr. PB Dissanayaka hoisted the national flag amidst of beating of Magulbera and blowing of Conch Shells. Thereafter, the Jayamangala Gatha and Devo Vassatu Kalena stanzas were sung to usher blessings to the nation by the children of Royal College of Polonnaruwa and a two minutes silence was also observed in memory of the patriot Sri Lankans who scarified their lives for the Motherland.

Thereafter, a Guard of Honour was accorded to the Chief Guest the Honourable Governor of the North Central Province Mr. PB Dissanayaka, the Government Agent Polonnaruwa Mr. Ranjith Ariyarathne, Commander Security Forces (East) Major General Santhusitha Pananwala by the troops of Sri Lanka Police, Civil Security Department. Hundreds of school children, dressed in their colourful attire afterwards began their march-past, according their salute to the Chief Guest. Rhythmic cultural shows by the school children followed by a Gymnastic diplay by the Army and a Martial Arts display by Civil Security Department added variety and glamour to the celebration. Concluding the proceedings, an Honourary of seven living legends who took part in the World War II was held to felicitate their service.

Religious Dignitaries and a large gathering of distinguished invitees were present at the event.