All-night ‘Pirith’ Chanting at Army HQ Blesses Army Anniversary

The Sri Lanka Army’s forward-march at the turn of its 72nd Anniversary received spiritual blessings in the customary all-night ‘Pirith’ chanting, held Wednesday (6) evening at the Sri Jayawardenepura Army Headquarters plus the offer of ‘Heel Daana’ (breakfast) to members of the Maha Sangha, the following day.

Organized by the Army Buddhist Association on account of the forthcoming Army Day (10), the all-night ‘Pirith’ chanting, led by Ven Aluthnuwara Anuruddha Nayake Thera, Incumbent, Kotte Rajamaha Viharaya, Ven (Prof) Medagoda Abhayatissa Nayake Thera and Ven Dr Kirinde Assaji Nayake Thera commenced after the monks were ushered to the location in a colourful procession, preceded by Army cultural dancing troupes, traditional drummers and flag-bearers. General Shavendra Silva, Chief of Defence Staff and Commander of the Army as the occasion’s lay Chief Guest respectfully carried the relic casket in the procession while the traditional ‘Piruvana Potha’ (book containing old scriptures) was taken by Major General Priyantha Perera, Chief of Staff of the Army.

Mrs Sujeewa Nelson, President, Army Seva Vanitha Unit (ASVU) and a representative gathering of white-clad Senior Officers, including the Deputy Chief of Staff and Other Ranks were present at the occasion, adhering to health guidelines. After the monks wended their way to the illuminated octagon (Pirith Mandapaya), General Shavendra Silva offered the traditional tray of betel (Deheth Wattiya) to the members of the Maha Sangha and invited them to invoke blessings on the 72nd Anniversary throughout the whole night.

The most senior monk for the occasion then delivered an ‘Anushasana’ (oration) on the importance of the 72nd Anniversary of the Army and the Army’s dedicated services to the nation. The monk also invoked blessings on the organization, injured War Heroes and transferred merits to the fallen ones, recalling the glorious past history of the organization. He also praised the Army's diverse roles and wished good luck with its onward-march as protectors of the nation.

Chairman and office-bearers of Sri Lanka Army Buddhist Association were instrumental in organizing the ‘Pinkama’ (meritorious act) with the support of all other branches.

With the offer of ‘Heel Daana’ (breakfast) to the monks on Thursday (7), the religious segment before the final one at Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya would culminate. General Shavendra Silva is scheduled to participate in the Heel Daana arrangement, together with his spouse, Officers and Other Ranks.