The President in a message to mark the 56th death anniversary of Prime Minister S.W.R.D Bandaranaike who left an indelible imprint in the political history of the country, said the 1956th renaissance paved the way for the down trodden to reach the top rung of administration.

The children of village farmers were able to reach the top rung of the society due to the vision and the principles of this great leader, the President said.

President Sirisena said the late Premier put the country on a progressive path ensuring more benefits and privileges to the suppressed.

"We should honour this great leader by making his aspirations of creating a progressive society a reality," the President stated in the message.