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Sri Lanka Army

Defender of the Nation

20th April 2023 10:51:45 Hours

Army Muslim Members with Commander Join ‘Iftar’ Ritual at Laya Beach Hotel

A representative gathering of Officers and Other Ranks of Islamic faith in the Army, together with Lieutenant General Vikum Liyanage RWP RSP ndu, Commander of the Army sat together Wednesday (19) at Laya Beach Hotel, Wadduwa to perform the Islamic ‘Iftar’ ritual, the breaking of fast of Muslims at sunset.

Organized by the Army Muslims' Association, the performance of the ritual ‘Iftar’ symbolized the degree of reconciliation and the goodwill, practiced by world-wide Muslims. It was also meant to invoke blessings on the prosperity of the country according to the rituals.

The welcome speech at the event was delivered by Brigadier A. M Muttalib, Chairman of Army Muslims’ Association before brief sermons were presented by Maulavi, Rev. Abdulla Mohideen in both Sinhala and English languages, in which he explained what ‘Iftar’ ritual is all about and how it relates to the conduct of life.

After prayers for breaking of the fast 'Iftar', the Commander of the Army, the days’ Chief Guest for the occasion, together with Mrs Janaki Liyanage, President Army Seva Vanitha Unit, Major General W. A. S. S Wanasinghe RSP VSV USP ndu, Commandant, Sri Lanka Army Volunteer Force, Major General D. M. K. D. B Pussella RWP RSP, Commander, Security Forces - West and the gathering partook of refreshments and symbolized the practice of the ritual.

At the same occasion, the Commander of the Army awarded symbolic contributions to both clergymen who conducted ‘Iftar’ ritual sessions during this ceremony.

Lieutenant Colonel T.M.P Jalal, Secretary of Army Muslims’ Association delivered the vote of thanks towards the end of the programme.

Major General B. K. G. M. L Rodrigo RSP psc IG, Commandant of Defence Services Command and Staff College, Major General M. G. W. W. W. M. C. B Wickramasinghe RWP RSP ndu psc, Adjutant General, Major General A. C. A de Zoysa USP Hdmc Lsc, Director, Directorate of Provost, Senior Officers and officers also joined the occasion.