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Security Forces Headquarters
(East)

16th October 2018 12:13:47 Hours

SFHQ (EAST) FACILITATES ANOTHER RELIGIOUS PROJECT

With the view to foster inter-ethnic and inter-religious coexistence and to generate a spirit of tolerance and understanding amongst different religious groups in the Eastern Province, Security Force Headquarters (East) has been facilitating for series of projects with the guidance of Commander Security Force (East), Major General Santhusitha Pananwala. Accordingly, the contribution of troops for the refurbishment of Mamanga Pillayar Kovil Batticaloa, renovation of the Theological Institute of Bishop's House Batticaloa, ongoing construction of Dhamma School building of Sri Paththanaramaya Batticaloa and various religious places in the area could be highlighted.

As the newest project, the religious ceremony to enshrine Sacred Relics in the hemispherical dome of the Stupa in Buddhist Centre Welikanda which is under construction, was held on 13 October dignified by the presence of Maha Sangha, Commander Security Force (East) Major General Santhusitha Pananwala, Officers & Other Ranks & a gathering of Buddhist devotees. The construction of this ‘Stupa’ is underway, with the auspices of Mr. Saddhathissa in Kelaniya area and under the supervision of Security Force Headquarters (East).

As directed by members of the Maha Sangha, including the Chief Incumbent of Buddhist Centre Welikanda Ven. Delwita Meththalankara Thero, the Commander Security Force (East) Major General Santhusitha Pananwala and Mr. Saddhathissa in Kelaniya area & his family members enshrined all relics in the inner sanctum at the auspicious minute amidst reverberating 'Pirith' chanting of Maha Sangha. General Officer Commanding 23 Division Brigadier Chula Abenayaka, Brigadier Admin & Quartering Brigadier Michael Wanniarachchi, Colonel General Staff, Colonel Chaminda Wijayaratne and several Senior Officers participated in the ceremony.

This temple was established in 1942 and survived during the conflict with many difficulties. The temple lacked this object of veneration, the Pagoda (Stupa), one of the main features of Buddhist worship which is now under construction. The Stupa has been scheduled to open on 10 Nov 2018.