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Sri Lankan National Day is celebrated on 4th February every year to commemorate the country’s independence from British rule in 1948. Also known as Independence Day, in 2026 Sri Lanka celebrates its 78th National Day.
Sri Lanka has faced several conflicts throughout its history, including invasions by colonial powers such as the British. The struggle for freedom—particularly independence from British rule—is remembered and honored on National Day.
History of Sri Lankan National Day 2026
Due to its strategic location and geography, Sri Lanka became a major attraction for European traders who arrived in Asia. The Portuguese were the first to invade Sri Lanka in the 16th century. At that time, the island was divided into several conflicting kingdoms, making it easier for foreign powers to gain control.
The Portuguese attempted to convert the Buddhist majority to Christianity, which created strong resentment among the people. Nearly a century later, the Dutch sought authority over Sri Lanka, leading to conflicts between the Portuguese and the Dutch. With the support of the local population, the Dutch eventually forced the Portuguese to flee the island.
The Dutch allowed freedom of religion for Buddhists, Hindus, and Muslims, but imposed heavy taxes on the people—more severe than those under Portuguese rule. In 1796, the British took control of the coastal areas and named the island Ceylon. By 1815, the British had brought the entire island under their rule.
On 4th February 1948, Sri Lanka was granted semi-independent Dominion status, and Don Stephen Senanayake became the country’s first Prime Minister. After nearly 450 years of colonial rule under three European powers, Sri Lanka finally gained independence. Sir Henry Monk Mason was sworn in as the first Governor-General of the Dominion of Ceylon.
Sri Lanka became a republic within the Commonwealth on 22 May 1972 and was officially renamed Sri Lanka. A new constitution was introduced in 1978.
The independence movement of Sri Lanka was largely peaceful and led by educated leaders of the 20th century, including D. S. Senanayake, D. B. Jayatilleke, Sir Ponnambalam Ramanathan, Sir Arunachalam, and W. A. de Silva. Earlier resistance movements such as the Uva Rebellion (1818) and the Matale Rebellion (1848) also played a significant role in the struggle against colonial rule.
National Day of Sri Lanka 2026 Celebrations
1: Who was the first woman President of India?
Sri Lankan National Day is marked by official ceremonies and grand military parades. The main celebrations take place in Colombo, where the President hoists the national flag and delivers a nationally televised address.
In the National Day speech, the President highlights the government’s achievements over the past year, discusses important national issues, and calls on citizens to unite in honoring this historic occasion. A two-minute silence is observed in memory of Sri Lanka’s national heroes.
National Day also serves as a day of remembrance for past and present national heroes who sacrificed their lives for the country. A large-scale military parade is conducted, with the Army, Navy, and Air Force showcasing their strength and discipline. The Sri Lanka Navy traditionally fires a 21-gun salute from the Colombo Lighthouse.
Across the country, National Day is celebrated through flag-hoisting ceremonies, cultural dances, parades, and performances. Universities host lectures on Sri Lankan history, colonization, and sovereignty. Religious observances and commemorative programs are also organized nationwide, symbolizing unity and national pride.
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Start Learning!National Day of Sri Lanka 2026 Wishes
- “This freedom is the result of the sacrifices and hardships of courageous souls. Let us remember them with gratitude. Happy Independence Day, Sri Lanka.”
- “Let this day inspire us to stand tall and proud as Sri Lankans.”
- “Say a silent prayer for those who gave us the chance to live in a free nation.”
- “Freedom is priceless. No amount of wealth can ever replace it.”
- “May the spirit of independence guide Sri Lanka forever. Let us celebrate together.”
- “Sri Lanka stands proud because our independence was achieved through peace, unity, and determination.”
National Day of Sri Lanka 2026 Quiz
In which year did Sri Lanka gain independence?
(a) 1947
(b) 1948
(c) 1972
(d) 1946
Ans: (b) 1948
Who is the current President of Sri Lanka?
(a) Chandrika Kumaratunga
(b) Maithripala Sirisena
(c) Mahinda Rajapaksa
(d) Gotabaya Rajapaksa
Ans: (d) Gotabaya Rajapaksa
What is Sri Lanka’s ranking in terms of tea export?
(a) First
(b) Second
(c) Third
(d) Fourth
Ans: (b) Second
Which was the first country to establish colonies in Sri Lanka?
(a) France
(b) England
(c) Portuguese
(d) Netherland
Ans: (c) Portuguese
Which are the official languages of Sri Lanka?
(a) Tamil and English
(b) Sinhala and Tamil
(c) Sinhala and English
(d) English and Hindi
Ans: (b) Sinhala and Tamil
Sri Lanka was formerly known as ________________.
(a) Myanmar
(b) Bharat
(c) Madras
(d) Ceylon
Ans: (d) Ceylon
_________________ is the largest religion of Sri Lanka.
(a) Christianity
(b) Islam
(d) Ceylon
(d) Hinduism
Ans: (d) Ceylon
What is the currency of Sri Lanka?
(a) Rupee
(b) Renminbi
(c) Dollar
(d) Pound
Ans: (a) Rupee
Which is the legislative capital of Sri Lanka?
(a) Colombo
(b) Sri Jayawardanapura Kotte
(c) Kandy
(d) Galle
Ans: (b) Sri Jayawardanapura Kotte
The first executive President of Sri Lanka was_____________.
(a) Sir Arunachalam
(b) M R Ferdinand
(c)
(d) D.S Senanayake
Ans: (d) D.S Senanayake
Entri wishes all Sri Lankans a very happy National Day.
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Start Learning!Frequently Asked Questions
1. When is Sri Lankan National Day celebrated?
Ans: Sri Lankan National Day is celebrated annually on 4th February to mark the country’s independence from British rule in 1948.
2. Why is Sri Lankan National Day significant?
Ans: It commemorates Sri Lanka’s independence after 450 years of colonial rule under the Portuguese, Dutch, and British, highlighting the country’s journey towards sovereignty and national pride.
3. How is Sri Lankan National Day celebrated?
Ans: The day is marked with flag-hoisting ceremonies, military parades, cultural performances, and official speeches, primarily in Colombo. The President delivers a televised speech, paying tribute to national heroes and outlining the nation’s progress.
4. Who was Sri Lanka’s first Prime Minister after independence?
Ans: Don Stephen Senanayake became the first Prime Minister of Sri Lanka after gaining independence in 1948.
5. What was Sri Lanka previously known as?
Ans: Before gaining independence, Sri Lanka was known as Ceylon. It was renamed Sri Lanka in 1972 when it became a republic within the Commonwealth.
6. What are some key historical events leading to Sri Lanka's independence?
Ans: Sri Lanka faced colonization by the Portuguese in the 16th century, followed by the Dutch, and finally the British, who ruled until 1948. The freedom movement was led by prominent figures like D.S. Senanayake and Sir Ponnambalam Ramanathan.
7. What traditions are observed during the National Day celebrations?
Ans: Events include military parades, a 21-gun salute, cultural shows, religious ceremonies, and two minutes of silence to honor fallen national heroes.
8. Who were some key leaders in Sri Lanka’s independence movement?
Ans: Notable figures include D. S. Senanayake, D. B. Jayatilleke, Sir Ponnambalam Ramanathan, Sir Arunachalam, and W. A. de Silva, who played vital roles in the peaceful independence movement.
9. What is the official capital of Sri Lanka?
Ans: The legislative capital of Sri Lanka is Sri Jayawardanapura Kotte, while Colombo serves as the commercial capital.
10. What is the official currency of Sri Lanka?
Ans: The official currency of Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR).
