Defence Secretary General Kamal Gunaratne said that “As a part of the nation building process, we engage in restoration projects of sacred religious places also whenever possible.”
Addressing a gathering at the Palatuwa Baudodaya Pirivena in Matara last Friday (Nov 04), he also mentioned that “the restoration work of Mihindu Maha Seya in Mihintale, both Deegawapiya and Neelagiriya Stupa restoration projects in the Eastern Province and Construction of Sandahiru Seya premises in Anuradhapura are some of the work being carried out”.
Gen. Gunaratne expressed these remarks at the opening ceremony of ‘Shrine Hall’ and the ‘Buddhist Statue’ held at the Palatuwa Baudodaya Pirivena in Matara.
Malwattu Chapter Anunayaka Most Ven. Dr. Niyangoda Dharmakeerthi Sri Sangarakkitha Vijithasiri thero declared open the newly constructed ‘Shrine Hall’ and unveiled the ‘Buddhist Statue’ of the Pirivena auspiciously at the invitation of the Chief Incumbent Ven. Gatamanne Gunananda thero.
Speaker of the Parliament Hon. Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena and the Governor of the Southern Province Willy Gamage were also present at the event.
Chief Prelate Ven. Gunananda thero welcomed Ven. Maha Sanga and the distinguished invitees to the opening ceremony and conducted the religious observances.
Chief Incumbent of the Pepiliyana Sunethra Devi Pirivena Ven. Prof. Medagoda Abhayatissa thero presided over the religious sermon afterwards.
The Defence Secretary during his address also stated that the technical expertise and labour were provided by the Sri Lanka Army to accomplish this noble project.
Venerable Maha Sanga, philanthropists, members of the organizing committee, devotees of the Pirivena, residents and students were also present at the event.
