By The Society for Peace, Unity and Human Rights (SPUR) NSW
The Society for Peace, Unity and Human Rights (SPUR) NSW held its 17th Annual Ranaviru Commemoration on 24 May 2026 at the Sinhala Cultural Centre in Sydney, Australia. This solemn event was dedicated to honouring the brave Ranaviruwo—Sri Lankan military personnel who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect the nation’s sovereignty and secure lasting peace for future generations.
The commemoration served as a poignant reminder of the nearly three decades of fear, violence, and instability endured by the people of Sri Lanka during the period of terrorism led by the separatist Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE).
Thousands of innocent civilians lost their lives, and communities across the country were deeply affected. While Sinhalese and Muslim communities faced immense suffering, many Tamil civilians also endured severe hardships—particularly those who resisted forced recruitment or did not support the separatist agenda. Countless Tamil children were deprived of education and basic freedoms due to coercion and intimidation.
Today, in the absence of terrorism, all communities—including innocent Tamil civilians—can live without fear. This commemoration, therefore, stood not only as a tribute to those who lost their lives but also as a reflection on the peace, unity, and stability that have been restored to the nation.
As part of the remembrance activities, SPUR NSW also organised an almsgiving ceremony on 16 May 2026 at the Carlingford Vidarshana Buddhist Vihara, where religious observances were conducted, and merit was transferred to the fallen heroes in accordance with Buddhist traditions.
The formal ceremony held on 24 May began with a welcome address delivered by Dr Yasantha Wijeratne, who served as the Master of Ceremonies. SPUR NSW executive committee member, Mr Lalith Attanayake, who emphasised the importance of honouring the sacrifices of the Ranaviruwo. He highlighted that their courage, dedication, and selflessness brought an end to decades of conflict and secured lasting peace for Sri Lanka. He further noted that such commemorations not only honour fallen heroes and recognise the sacrifices of their families, but also serve to preserve national history and strengthen unity among all Sri Lankans. He stressed the role of remembrance in fostering patriotism among younger generations and encouraging the continued protection of peace and national integrity.
A Buddhist sermon was delivered by Venerable Rathanasili Thero of the Carlingford Vidarshana Buddhist Vihara, who invoked blessings on the fallen heroes and extended merit to those who made the ultimate sacrifice, as well as to wounded soldiers who continue to recover.
SPUR President Mr Nelson Piyaratna highlighted the organisation’s significant contributions during and after the war. He outlined SPUR NSW’s ongoing initiatives, including support for the Ranaviru Sevana Rehabilitation Centre in Ragama, the provision of medical assistance to injured soldiers, and scholarship programs for the children of servicemen. He also emphasised SPUR’s continued efforts to counter pro-LTTE propaganda both within Australia and internationally.
The event photos are provided below.
