National Flag
Every country has its own identity. This identify is given to a country by its flag, emblem, anthem and other national symbols. We Sri Lankans have our own national symbols which represent the whole nation.
This symbolizes the "Sri Lankans" and their way of living. The lion flag is our national flag. We hoist the national flag at all national festivals and on special occasions such as opening ceremonies, independence day celebrations and school functions. In the national flag the lion carrying a sword on a red background depicts courage. The four Bo leaves represent, loving kindness (Metta), Compassion (Karuna), Sympathy (Muditha) and Equanimity (Upekka).
The orange color represent the minority the Tamil community and the green color represents the Muslim community. The red background represent the majority Sinhalese.
National Emblem
We must stand at attention and face the flag while hosting the national flag. The other important symbol is the national emblem. The national seal is the national symbol of any country. There are several symbols in the Sri Lankan national seal. The Dhamma Chakra symbolizes the Buddhism. The sun and the moon represent the eternity. The lion with the sword represent the braveness of the nation. The pot full of the flowers (punkalasa) symbolize the prosperity. The golden paddy sheaves represent the agricultural life style and the lotus petals symbolize the purity. This emblem was drawn by H.A.Senevirathna in 1972.
National Anthem
The national anthem is the other important identify of the national. It is very important as the national flag. It was composed by Ananda Samarakoon. It was sung for the first time on the 4th of February in 1949 at Independence square. By singing the national anthem we show respect and love for our country. It helps bring about the National Unity among all our citizens.
The National Tree
The National tree in Sri Lanka is Na tree. It has white flowers with a sweet scent. It has long, thin leaves. Its young leaves are red. It has a strong trunk. That is why it is called "Iron tree"
National Flower
Our National Flower is Nil Manel. It is a water plant. It has blue petals. The stem of the flower is dark red. It has big round leaves floating on the surface of the water.
National Bird
The Ceylon jungle fowl is the national bird of Sri Lanka. This bird can be seen at bird sanctuaries and national parks. It is a small bird very much like a rooster. But it is smaller than a rooster. We can see it very rarely. The hen bird lays three or four eggs at one time. They are cream in color.
National Game
Our national game is volley ball. It is a team game. Also it is a popular game in Sri Lanka. We need a volley ball and a net to play this game.
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