Commander of the Army Declares Open New Shrine Room at Kotuwegedara Sudharmodhaya Viharaya - Matale

Lieutenant General Vikum Liyanage RWP RSP ndu, Commander of the Army, along with Ven. Mugunuwela Anurudhdha Thero, Chief Incumbent of Anurudhdha Arana Viharaya ceremonially opened the newly-erected Shrine Room at Kotuwegedara Sudharmodhaya Viharaya, Matale on 19 June 2024.

On arrival, the Army Chief was warmly welcomed by Ven. Mahalakotuwe Vimaladhammabhidhana Thero, Chief Incumbent of Kotuwegedara Sudharmodhaya Viharaya, Matale along with Major General S.R.B Aluvihare RWP RSP ndu psc, Commander, Security Forces - Central and the members of Dhayaka Sabhawa. Subsequently, the Army Commander declared opened the Shrine Room by unveiling the plaque upon ushering to the place by Army Dancing Troupe.

Coinciding with the main event, a foundation stone to construct a new ‘Bodhi Prakaraya’ (protective wall) was also laid by Ven. Ilukkumbure Shasanarathana Thero and other distinguished guests. Following the lighting of the traditional oil lamp, Ven. Kosgolle Seelarathana Thero conducted the proceedings of the event. After the observance of the five precepts (Pansil), the occasion featured a brief welcome speech by the Chief Incumbent and a special oration (Anusasana) delivered by Ven. Mahalakotuwe Vimaladhammabhidhana Thero.

Soon after, the Commander of the Army addressed the distinguished gathering and presented special mementoes to the individuals who provided workforce assistance for the construction of new Shrine Room. Concluding the event, Chief Incumbent of Kotuwegedara Sudharmodhaya Viharaya presented a special memento to the Army Chief and the gesture was reciprocated.

Mrs. Kawsalya S.D Dissanayake - District Secretary of Matale, Mrs. Janaki Liyanage - President of the Army Seva Vanitha Unit, Senior Officers, Officers and devotees participated in the event.