Following the presentation of the Sannas Pathra, the Prime Minister, addressing the gathering, stated:
“Today marks a special day for this temple, as we have offered the Sannas Pathra declaring it as a Rajamaha Viharaya sacred site, to the Chief incumbent venerable Kanangama Narad Thero. This occasion, has special significance as it coincides with the birthday of the venerable thero who is providing spiritual leadership at this temple. I pray for his good health and long life to engage in meritorious service for many more years.
The old Buddha shrine here is confirmed by archaeologists to contain ancient paintings and statues belonging to the Gampola and Kotte eras. Today, I had the fortune to witness these priceless wealth of our historical heritage with my own eyes, and I feel truly delighted.
The history, culture, and heritage of a country play a vital role in ensuring social harmony and unity among its people. Our heritage provides the foundation that empowers us to build a strong future. Preserving these heritages in a manner that earns the respect of all citizens is a sacred responsibility entrusted to us as a government. Therefore, I consider it a privilege to have been able to participate in this important occasion”.
The event was graced by the presence of the Most Venerable Karagoda Uyangoda Maithree Murthi Thero of the Sri Lanka Amarapura Maha Nikaya; the Venerable Balapitiye Siri Seewali Thero, General Secretary of the Amarapura Maha Sangha Sabha and members of the Maha Sangha; deputy Minister of Buddha Sasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, Gamagedara Dissanayake, Mayor of Kaduwela Municipal Council, Ranjan Jayalal, Members of Parliament, Asitha Niroshan and Ms. Kaushalya Ariyarathna, other political authorities, government officials, and a large number of members of the Dayaka Sabha of the temple.
[Prime Minister’s Media Division]
