A national felicitation program will be held to mark the occasion of the second term of office of President Mahinda Rajapaksa and his birthday.

The Government has declared the week from November 15 to 22 as the commemorative week for countrywide celebrations.

Mass Media and Information Minister Keheliya Rambukwella addressing the media yesterday said the felicitation ceremony will consist several programs such as exhibitions and awareness programs. It will be held from November 15 to 21 at the Independence Square, Colombo under the theme Nidahasa. The Nidahasa exhibition will be held to appreciate President Rajapaksa’s untiring efforts to liberate the country from nearly three decade terrorism.

The exhibition will be opened by President Mahinda Rajapaksa on November 17 at 6.00 p.m. Admission is free . It will be open to the public from 2.00 pm to 10.00 pm daily.

A special photographic exhibition will be held under the theme Historical Memoirs depicting historical, social, political milestones and development programs in the history of Sri Lanka. A food exhibition which consists all indigenous and traditional food items will also be held under the theme Our Food Heritage with the assistance of several star-class hotels.

“The exhibition will showcase the glorious past and culture of the country and the future development goals. Modern technology is used for the exhibition. The photographic exhibition and the food exhibition will exhibit our glorious heritage,” the Minister added.

In addition, a 4,000 kilogram Kiribath will be prepared by award winning Chef Dr Pubilis Silva together with famous chefs working in star hotels in Sri Lanka. A Guinness record and a patent right will be obtained for the massive Kiribath.

A special “Performing Arts” zone will be set up at this exhibition venue to highlight talents of students who will perform Kandyan, Pahatha Rata and Sabaragamuwa dance items. A special competition among schools will be held to select the best school band.

A special design zone organized by the Moratuwa University Textile and Clothing Technology Department will take place daily. The visitors will be briefed on modern technology invented in the world in the textile and clothing sector. The textile and the clothing exhibition will also organize a modelling extravaganza. At the end of each day, a Musical Show with the participation of artistes and musicians will be held.

Apart from the national exhibition, a 1.1 million tree planting campaign will be held throughout the country under the patronage of Provincial Councils, Government and Private organizations and individuals.