Mr Gerard Ondatchchi, Deputy Chairman, Mr M. Rifan, General Manager and a representative team of the Grand Hotel at first, appreciative of his national role towards control of the epidemic honoured the visiting Army Chief by inviting him to unveil his photo in the Hotel's 'Queen's Corridor' where photographs of dignitaries and famed celebrities remain hung, adding grandeur and immortality to its reputation.

Afterwards, a reception of an exceptional and unique nature that came alive with young musicians, members of the hotel band and students in the hotel lawn praised Lieutenant General Shavendra Silva's dedicated commitment, exemplary leadership and achievements gained against the spread of COVID-19 epidemic in Sri Lanka. Lined up youngsters waving national flags sang odes, paying tribute to War Heroes of contemporary times and those working for the Nation at this critical hour as rhythmic beats of traditional drums began reverberating around the premises. The day's special guest added symbolic significance to the occasion by cutting a cake organized by the Hotel and addressed the gathering expressing his deep gratitude to them for the felicitation.

The brief itinerary that got underway on the sidelines of the Army Commander's formal commitments in Nuwara Eliya culminated presenting special mementos of appreciation to the celebrity's national commitment by the Hotel Management, amid roars of applause.