Wednesday 17 March 2010
Tune of the Day: Sri Lanka Matha
National anthem of Sri Lanka
After independence was granted to Sri Lanka (at the time known as Ceylon) in 1948, the need for a national anthem arose. As a result of a contest, Ananda Samarakoon's contribution, written in Sinhalese, was chosen as the new anthem. It was first performed on the fourth anniversary of independence in early 1952.
Mother Lanka we salute Thee!
Plenteous in prosperity, Thou,
Beauteous in grace and love,
Laden with grain and luscious fruit,
And fragrant flowers of radiant hue,
Giver of life and all good things,
Our land of joy and victory,
Receive our grateful praise sublime,
Lanka! we worship Thee.
Thanks to Jackie for suggesting this piece!