The Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Los Angeles, led by Mr. Charitha Yattogoda, hosted a vibrant celebration of Sri Lanka's 78th Independence Day at the Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre. The event, attended by several hundred guests, was filmed by FINN TV and broadcast to Sri Lanka, showcasing the cultural richness and unity of the Sri Lankan community abroad.
Guests were immersed in a program of traditional dance, music, prayers, and tributes. The evening commenced with the lighting of the oil lamp, a symbol of enlightenment and unity. Prayers were offered by representatives from the Hindu, Buddhist, Islamic, and Christian faiths, reflecting Sri Lanka's spiritual diversity. A highlight was the presentation of The Way to Happiness book by L. Ron Hubbard, translated into Sinhalese, to Mr. Yattogoda by the Senior Vice President of Celebrity Centre. The final chapter, "Flourish and Prosper," was highlighted as a wish for the Sri Lankan people to thrive in unity.
Ms. Rekha Mallikarachchi, Deputy Consul General, read a National Day message from Sri Lanka's Honorary Foreign Minister, emphasizing national unity and collective well-being across diverse faiths and languages. In a show of support for Sri Lanka's ongoing development, the Sri Lankan community in Sun Valley/Los Angeles presented a $21,000 check to the Rebuilding Sri Lanka Fund, demonstrating their commitment to the nation's recovery.
The celebration concluded with a drum and dance performance by artists Mr. Waruna Hemachandra and Ms. Sandani Sulochani, leaving the audience with a sense of pride. The Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre remains dedicated to fostering cultural exchange and global harmony. For more information, visit https://www.scientology.cc.
