10th September 2025 16:21:14 Hours
The 45th Colour Blessing Ceremony of The Gemunu Watch took place on 15 August 2025 in the sacred city of Kataragama. This event included blessing ceremonies at the Kataragama Kiriwehera, Ashta Pala Bodhiya, and Kataragama Dewalaya, under the patronage of the Colonel of the Regiment, Major General W.B.J.K. Wimalaratne RWP RSP, with the guidance and blessings of the Maha Sanga.
On 15 August 1980, President and Unit Colours were first awarded to the 1st Battalion of the Gemunu Watch and the 2nd and 3rd Volunteer Battalions for their loyal and distinguished service to the nation. The Colours were presented by the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces and President of Sri Lanka, His Excellency Hon. J.R. Jayawardena, during a grand parade at the Galle Esplanade.
Later, the President’s and Regimental Colours were awarded to the Regimental Centre of the Gemunu Watch and re-awarded to the 1st Battalion, as well as the 2nd and 3rd Volunteer Battalions, on 15 August 2012 at the Regimental Headquarters in Kuruwita.
The unit flags of both the Regular and Volunteer Battalions of the Gemunu Watch were ceremonially displayed in procession by representatives from each Battalion. This historic event drew participation from many seniors, retired, and serving officers, along with their families, as well as other ranks and their families, showcasing the unity, spirit, and camaraderie of the Gemunu Watch Regiment.
The Maha Sanga chanted the Seth Pirith overnight, invoking blessings upon the Colours of the Regiment and 1st Battalion the Gemunu Watch, the 2nd and 3rd Volunteer Battalions. The series of religious observances concluded with an almsgiving held on 16 August 2025, marking the successful completion of this colourful and spiritually significant calendar event of the Gemunu Watch.
