23rd June 2024 09:59:09 Hours
The illuminating ceremony of the Sanda Hiru Seya Poson Zone 2024 took place in Anuradhapura on the evening of 21 June 2024 with the gracious presence of Lieutenant General Vikum Liyanage RWP RSP ndu, Commander of the Army and Mrs. Janaki Liyanage, President of the Army Seva Vanitha Unit (ASVU). The event commenced with the opening of a Rice Dansala, organised by the Security Forces Headquarters - Wanni, providing essentials to devotees within the revered religious site in Anuradhapura.
The Chief Guest, General Kamal Gunaratne (Rtd) WWV RWP RSP USP ndc psc MPhil, Secretary to the Ministry of Defence, and distinguished guests paid homage by offering flowers and ashta pana (eight kinds of medicinal liquids) at the main Buddha Statue in the eastern gate entrance of "Salapathala Maluwa," symbolizing respect for the sacred space.
Attendees then joined the illumination of Sanda Hiru Seya Poson Zone Thorana - an exhibition area that showcases religious and cultural exhibits. The traditional oil lamp was lit ceremonially, symbolizing the dispelling of darkness and the onset of spiritual enlightenment. The atmosphere resonated with the melodies of Poson Bhakthi Gee, (devotional songs) filling the air with reverence and spirituality.
Soon after, a significant moment followed with the ceremonial lighting of 'Wankagiriya', by the Chief Guest and other dignitaries, marking a profound religious occasion. Attendees explored 'Wankagiriya', absorbing its religious significance.
The event was attended by clergy members, Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera RSP USP ndu psc, Commander of the Navy, Air Marshal Udeni Rajapaksa RSP VSV USP rcds psc, Commander of the Air Force, Major General W.P.A.D.W. Nanayakkara RSP VSV USP ndu, the Commander Security Forces - Wanni, Senior Tri Forces Officers, Government Agents, and local devotees, enhancing the event's significance and community spirit.
