Sri Lanka's 78th Independence Day Celebrated at Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre in Los Angeles

The Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Los Angeles organized a celebration for Sri Lanka's 78th Independence Day at the Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre, attended by several hundred guests. The event, led by Consul General Mr. Charitha Yattogoda, was filmed by FINN TV for broadcast to Sri Lanka, immersing attendees in Sri Lankan culture through a vibrant program of traditional dance, music, prayers, and heartfelt tributes. The evening commenced with the traditional lighting of the oil lamp, symbolizing enlightenment and unity, followed by prayers offered by representatives from the Hindu, Buddhist, Islamic, and Christian faiths, reflecting the nation's rich spiritual diversity.

A significant moment featured 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 specifically highlighted as a wish for the Sri Lankan people to continue thriving and prospering in unity. Ms. Rekha Mallikarachchi, Deputy Consul General of Sri Lanka in Los Angeles, read a National Day message from Sri Lanka's Honorary Foreign Minister, emphasizing the importance of national unity and the collective well-being of the people, irrespective of their 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 generous $21,000 check to the Rebuilding Sri Lanka Fund, demonstrating their strong commitment to the nation's recovery and progress. The celebration concluded with an electrifying drum and dance performance by renowned artists Mr. Waruna Hemachandra and Ms. Sandani Sulochani, leaving the audience with a sense of pride and unity. The Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre, which can be visited at https://www.scientology.cc, remains dedicated to fostering cultural exchange and promoting global harmony through meaningful events like these, with the religion founded by author and philosopher L. Ron Hubbard expanding to more than 11,000 Churches, Missions, and affiliated groups worldwide.