Sixtieth Anniversary of Independence

Sixty years ago, as the sun set on the British Empire, the future looked bright for young Ceylonese. They had great expectations as they looked to a future bursting with opportunities. Ethnic differences mattered little as all communities watched with pride the flag of Ceylon being unveiled on February 4, 1948. They dreamt of a prosperous and united Sri Lanka.

Sixty years on, today’s youth still long for freedom. There is a sense of urgency as they cry out for peace and better opportunities. As Sri Lanka prepares to mark sixty years of Independence from colonial rule, The Sunday Times spoke to some well-known Sri Lankans, who saw Independence dawn and who are now distinguished elder citizens as well as the youth of today of their hopes and vision for the country.

The Ceylon Parliament had been prorogued at the end of January, and the island would cease to be a colony at midnight on February 3, 1948. Celebrations, festivities and processions had been planned all over the country, and as the great day approached excitement mounted in city and in village. Yet, it was I believe, in a mood of quiet and sober thankfulness, rather than of elation and vainglory, that Mr. Senanayake, Sir Oliver Goonetilleke and the others who had worked with them to secure Ceylon’s Independence looked ahead to the fruition of their labours, without illusions as to the heavy responsibilities which would henceforth lie upon the country’s leaders.

- CEYLON - The Path To Independence, Sir Charles Jeffries