25th February 2022 20:47:16 Hours
With the intention of evaluating the progress of the construction of the new Stupa (pagoda) at ancient Muthur, Pachchanur Galkanda Kottiyarama Raja Maha Vihara premises at Morawewa, General Shavendra Silva, Chief of Defence Staff and Commander of the Army this morning (25) visited the temple at the invitation of Ven. Balalle Ratanasara Thero, Incumbent, Muthur, Pachchanur Galkanda Kottiyarama Raja Maha Vihara.
Troops of the 6 Sri Lanka Armoured Corps and 15 Sri Lanka Light Infantry as per the directions of the Commander of the Army who are performing the major share of its constructions in coordination with Professor Kapila Gunawardene, Secretary to Ministry of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs and Temple Development Association were taken by surprise when the Army Chief reached them. Sri Lanka Navy and Civil Security Department personnel are also carrying out those constructions.
During his stay atop the summit, General Shavendra Silva was invited to place one cornerstone of the foundation of the pagoda by the incumbent monk. The Army Chief also shared a few thoughts with the troops, engaged in the construction, inquired into their welfare and discussed possibilities of expediting the construction work. He also made offerings to the Buddha statue at the location and had a close look around the premises before a discussion with the monks was initiated.
Before his departure, the incumbent, Ven. Balalle Ratanasara Thero, appreciative of the Army Chief’s visit to the location presented a replica of the Buddha to the Commander of the Army and extended his blessings.
Ven. Wathurakumbure Dharmaratana Thero, Incumbent at Nelligala International Buddhist Centre and Kuragala Monastery, Major General Lal Chandrasiri, Commander, Security Forces - East, Major General Sanath Aluwihare, General Officer Commanding, 22 Division, Major General Lal Wijethunge, Overall Security Coordinator and Colonel Ravindra Jayasinghe, Commander, 223 Brigade were among those who were associated with the visit to the location.
During the day’s itinerary in the East, the Commander also made a visit to the sacred Seruwila Mangalarama Raja Maha Viharaya at the invitation of Ven. Aludeniye Subodha Thero, Chief Incumbent.
