The annual ‘Katina Cheevara Pooja’ festival at Jaffna-based Sri Naga Viharaya took place during the last week with the participation of a large gathering of devotees, including Major General Mahinda Hathurusinghe, Commander, Security Force Headquarters - Jaffna (SFHQ-J).
Under the auspices of Ven Meegahajandure Siri Vimala Thero, 51 Division Headquarters in Kopai organized the event, coloured with a colourful procession, comprised of dancers of Buddhist and Hindu faiths. In addition, pachyderms too walked the main streets during the procession that symbolized religious harmony.
Carrying of statutes of Gods, belonging to both Buddhist and Hindu religions in the Katina Cheevara Perahera (procession), attracted attention of the devotees and demonstrated the religious harmony that prevails in the Jaffna peninsula.
All government and private agencies in Jaffna supported the arrangement and provided all assistance as thousands lined up to witness the procession along the streets.
An all-night Pirith chanting ceremony at the temple premises followed the Katina Cheevara Pooja during morning hours.
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