27th September 2025
A special Hindu ‘Aashirwada’ Pooja (blessing ceremony) was conducted at the Sri Kandasamy Kovil in Vavuniya on 26 September 2025, invoking blessings for the forthcoming 76th Army Anniversary Day on 10 October 2025.
The ceremony, organised by the Sri Lanka Army Hindu Association, symbolically blessed the Army Flag after taking it into the inner chamber of the Kovil amidst traditional rites and rituals.
Respecting the cultural, religious and social values of the Hindu community living in the North and East and adhering to the concepts of the Clean Sri Lanka National Programme, the Hindu deity blessing ceremony for the Army flags was held this time in Vavuniya.
Upon arrival, Lieutenant General Lasantha Rodrigo RSP ctf-ndu psc IG, Commander of the Army, was received in accordance with Nadhaswara Melam Hindu traditions by Major General K.M.P.S.B. Kulatunga RSP ndc psc, Commander, Security Forces (Wanni) and Chairman of the Army Hindu Association.
The Army Chief subsequently presented the Army Flag to the priests for blessings, accompanied by the resonating sounds of temple bells. The Pooja was conducted by a group of Hindu priests under the leadership of Chief Kurukkal Sivasri Sarweswara Kurukkal.
Following the observances, the Commander of the Army made a cash donation to Mr. Arul Selvam, Treasurer of the Kovil, for its development, on behalf of all serving in the Army.
Major General Y.A.B.M. Yahampath RWP RSP ndu psc, Deputy Chief of Staff of the Army, Major General K.V.N.P. Premaratne RSP USP ndc psc, Commandant of the Sri Lanka Army Volunteer Force, Principal Staff Officers, Security Forces Commanders, Senior Officers, Officers and Other Ranks participated in the event.
