26th November 2022 18:46:49 Hours
The ‘Kandula IX’, the newest Regimental mascot of the Sri Lanka Light Infantry Regiment (SLLI) which traces its distinguished and ancient lineage of descent from the times of King Dutu Gemunu, the country’s foremost warrior king, arrived at Panagoda SLLI Regiment Headquarters on 24 November 2022 as the 9th auspicious pachyderm to be received amidst beating of Magul Bera (auspicious drums).
Major General Jagath Kodithuwakku, Colonel of the Regiment, SLLI and Chief of Staff in close collaboration with the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage and the Department of Wildlife, adhering to existing rules and regulations, managed to receive the custodianship of the new elephant after an agreement to that effect was reached with the National Zoological Garden at Dehiwala as has been the practice down the line.
Former, SLLI Center Commandant, Brigadier Krishantha Peiris and Colonel Sujith Kulasekara extended their guidance and support for the process of receiving the regimental mascot after the previous one, now fully grown was handed back to the authorities as per terms and conditions. Once those elephants reach maturity, it is generally handed over to the zoological gardens for nurturing by the SLLI Regiment.
