The Celebrations began with the hoisting of the National flag by the High Commissioner Mr. Alok Prasad at the India House. The High Commission's security contingent offered him a guard of honour and the national anthem of India was then sung with great fervour and enthusiasm. Mr. Prasad read out excerpts from the address to the Nation by Hon' President of India Dr. A.P.J.Abdul Kalam to a large gathering of Indian nationals assembled at India House. The morning function ended with a spread of delicious Indian snacks.

The evening reception to commemorate the occasion at India House was a grand event. Cabinet Ministers, business leaders, community leaders, heads of diplomatic missions, performing artistes and noted luminaries from all walks of life attended this reception.

The Hon'ble Mahinda Samarasinghe, Minister of Disaster Management and Human Rights was the chief guest at the reception and was a representative of the Government of Sri Lanka. Both the High Commissioner and Hon'ble Minister spoke on the occasion outlining the strong friendship between the two countries.

The reception was enlivened by a beautiful Kathak dance recital 'Bho Shambo' presented by Ms. Geetanjali Lal and her accompanying artistes.