30th January 2022 06:22:43 Hours
More than 1,000 Buddhist monks, drawn from all corners of the country, including Maha Nayaka and Anunayaka Theros at the invitation of the Ministry of Defence gathered at the BMICH premises this evening (26) and commenced overnight chanting of the 'Jaya Piritha,' one of the most powerful canons of Buddhist chanting, believed to be able to dispel bad omens and destructive forces and invoke blessings to bring prosperity and well-being to the country.
HE the President Gotabaya Rajapaksa as the Chief Guest for this annual event, accompanied by the First Lady, Mrs Ioma Rajapaksa, General Kamal Gunarathna (retd), Secretary Defence, General Shavendra Silva, Chief of Defence Staff and Commander of the Army, Vice Admiral Nishantha Ulugetenna, Commander of the Navy, Air Marshal Sudarshana Pathirana, Commander of the Air Force, Mrs Chithrani Gunarathna, Chairperson Ministry of Defence Seva Vanitha Unit, Mrs Sujeewa Nelson, President, Army Seva Vanitha Unit, Navy and Air Force Seva Vanitha Unit Presidents in accordance with age-old traditions carried the relic casket to the 'Pirith Mandapaya' (octagon) in a colourful procession and invited the members of the Maha Sangha to commence chanting by offering the tray of betel (Dehetwattiya). The 'Piruwana Potha' that contains historic chanting was also carried by HE the President, Gotabaya Rajapaksa for placement in the Mandapaya at the same time.
The Maha Sangha including, Ven Prof Medagoda Abhayatissa Thero, Ven Wendaruwe Upali Thero and Ven Dr Niyangoda Vijithasiri Anunayake Thero delivered the typical 'Anushasana' (orations) and highlighted the value of this special chanting
This mammoth annual chanting saw its birth as a concept of HE the President in the year 2008 when he was serving as Secretary Defence under the government of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, the incumbent Hon Prime Minister of Sri Lanka at a time humanitarian operations against LTTE terrorism were entering a decisive phase.
The limited number of participants, adhering to strict health guidelines, together with family members of differently able and fallen War Heroes also attended the event which also invoked blessings on them and the Tri-Forces. The chanting appealed celestial powers to help the country's forward-march, dispelling all challenges and setbacks posed to the Nation.
The annual chanting ceremony, organized by Ministry of Defence in coordination with Army, Navy and Air Force followed offer of 'Heel Daana' (breakfast) to members of the Maha Sangha on Thursday (27).
