Stories from the land of a myriad treasures; a land like no other

Sri Lankan flags fluttered from office buildings, homes and vehicles as the official commemoration ceremony was held with pomp and pageantry in the commercial capital Colombo. In all other provinces too the National Flag was hoisted and the day commemorated with dignity and pride.

Sri Lanka gained independence from the British in 1948 after nearly five decades of western foreign rule. The Portuguese came in 1505, the Dutch in 1656, and finally the British in 1796, all following the spice route and the strategic location. A nation absorbing over four centuries of varied influences has retained its unique cultural identity while radiating a diversity, like no other.

A country of 19 million people of different ethnicities and religions, on the threshold of a new era, an era of celebrating its myriad treasures, truly a land like no other.

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Millennium stage, Kennedy centre, Washington D.C became a riot of colour, with dancers moving in rhythm to the cadence of the drums, the audience is held captive; Sri Lankas State Dance Ensemble performs in celebration of the 60th Anniversary of Independence. Later, choreographer and artistic director Ravibandu Vidyapathi, led his troupe in dance at a public performance to an equally appreciative packed house in Maryland moving on to captivate audiences in Minnesota. The ensemble will then go on to enchant Canadian audiences in Toronto, Ottawa, Calgary and Montreal.

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Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1988 the Sinharaja Forest Reserve is now poised to earn another laurel.

Sinharaja Forest Reserve is a densely forested reserve, home to an incredible number of different trees and animal species, including amphibians, reptiles, birds, mammals and insects. This hilly virgin rainforest was saved from the worst of commercial logging by its inaccessibility.

The New 7 Wonders Foundation under the leadership of Prof. Fredrico Mayor, former Director General of UNESCO will choose the New 7 Wonders of Nature that will be declared in 2010.

If you know the Sinharaja or have heard of it click on http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/ and vote to make Sinharaja a New 7 Wonders of the World

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