Young Voices Honour Sri Lanka’s Independence

On Saturday, 7 February 2026, children from Maryland Buddhist Vihara’s Dhamma School for Young Ones joined the Most Venerable Katugastota Uparatana Nayaka Thera at a community celebration marking the 78th anniversary of Sri Lanka’s independence.

Held at John F. Kennedy High School in Wheaton, Maryland, the event brought together Sri Lankan community organisations, families and friends from across the Washington metropolitan area for an evening of remembrance and cultural celebration.

In a particularly meaningful part of the programme, the young students took the stage with Bhante and sang the Sri Lankan National Anthem. Their participation expressed respect for Sri Lanka and gave the children an opportunity to share their cultural heritage before the wider community.

Bhante’s presence reflected his longstanding commitment to guiding younger generations through Dhamma education while helping them remain connected to their language, traditions and heritage.

The celebration also included remarks by Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to the United States and a programme of cultural performances presented by members of the community.

May these young voices continue to carry forward the values of unity, gratitude and service.

🙏 Sadhu! Sadhu!! Sadhu!!!