Nov 18, Colombo: Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa celebrated his 67th birthday today with a series of religious activities.

An all-night Pirith ceremony was held at the President's House Saturday night under the patronage of Parivenadhipathi of Vidyalankara Pirivena and Kelaniya University Chancellor Ven. Dr. Welamitiyawe Kusaladhamma Nayake Thera.

The President will also mark the anniversary of his election to the office tomorrow, November 19. Series of religious ceremonies island wide have been organized to mark the President's birthday and the anniversary day.

The President elected to the office first time at the 2005 presidential election was sworn in on November 19, 2005. He was reelected to a second term in office on January 27, 2010.

(Photos by Chandana Perera)