Sri Lanka is celebrating its 78th National Independence Day today (February 4) with a ceremonial program at the Independence Square in Colombo, centered on the theme “Rebuilding Sri Lanka.” The main state ceremony began at 7:30 a.m. under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

The day commemorates the country’s freedom from British colonial rule in 1948, paying tribute to the leaders and citizens whose sacrifices shaped an independent Sri Lanka. The celebrations blend remembrance with a renewed focus on unity, recovery, and national renewal.

More than 4,500 members of the Security Forces and Police are participating in the event, alongside around 400 invited guests, including foreign diplomats. To ensure safety and smooth movement in the capital, a special security and traffic management plan has been put in place, with over 2,000 police officers deployed across Colombo.

This year’s Independence Day observance reflects not only pride in the nation’s past, but also a collective resolve to rebuild and move forward together.

BOB Post