Nation Reimagined by Its Youngest Dreamers

COLOMBO (News 1st); A new chapter for Sri Lanka is being written—not by politicians, but by its future. On Sunday (28), the voices of children echoed across Viharamahadevi Park, as Sirasa TV, in collaboration with Munchee, hosted a vibrant and visionary celebration titled “Sirasa - Munchee Tikiri Punchi Lokaya” to mark World Children’s Day.

“From crayons to convictions—Sri Lanka’s future begins here.”

This year’s celebration was unlike any before. It was shaped entirely by the children themselves. Beginning on September 11, Sirasa TV embarked on a nationwide journey, covering all 25 districts, gathering ideas, dreams, and visions from schoolchildren about the kind of future they want to build.

From thousands of submissions, ten standout paintings—each a visual manifesto of hope and progress—were awarded today. These artworks reflected the children’s aspirations for a modern, inclusive, and creative Sri Lanka.

“Every brushstroke a blueprint. Every word a wish.”

The inaugural ceremony was graced by a distinguished panel of guests, each representing a pillar of Sri Lanka’s development:

Nalaka Kaluwewa – Secretary, Ministry of Education, Higher Education & Vocational Education

Gayani Kaushallya Wijesinghe – Commissioner, Department of Probation and Child Care Services

Vraie Calley Balthazaar – Mayoress, Colombo Municipal Council

Palitha Nanayakkara – Municipal Commissioner, CMC

Y. A. Jayathilake – General Manager & CEO, Bank of Ceylon

Dinesh Dharmaratne – CEO, Ranco (Pvt) Ltd

Chevaan Daniel – Group Director, Sirasa Media Network & Capital Maharaja Group

Yasarath Kamalsiri – CEO, MTV Channel (Pvt) Ltd

Following the ceremony, the dignitaries joined the children in various activities, celebrating not just their presence—but their potential.

The park was transformed into a wonderland of experiences:

Climbing Sport Zone: Children explored the Olympic sport of climbing, sparking newfound interest and excitement.

CMC Fire Services Rescue Experience: A hands-on adventure into emergency response and safety.

Competitions: Archery, drawing, and reading camps encouraged creativity and curiosity.

Book Donation Drive: Under the theme “From a Small Hand to a Small Hand”, children donated books for Gammedda libraries in rural schools.

Screen Tests: Auditions for Kids First, Punchi Panchi, and News First gave children a chance to shine on screen.

Sirasa FM Voice Tests: Young voices filled the air with passion and promise.

Dance Performances: The park came alive with rhythm and color as children showcased their talents.

City Tours: Double-decker bus rides offered a scenic view of Colombo’s landmarks.

Official Dog Show: Presented by the Sri Lanka Air Force Air Dog Unit, this event was a crowd favorite.

Sirasa TV’s commitment to nurturing the next generation was evident throughout the event. By giving children the platform to express their ideas, the network reaffirmed its role in shaping a creative, inclusive, and resilient Sri Lanka.

“The bridge to the future is built by small hands with big dreams.”

As the sun set over Viharamahadevi Park, one message rang clear: Protecting and empowering our children is the only way to secure our nation’s future. Sirasa TV is proud to walk that path—hand in hand with the dreamers of tomorrow.