17th December 2024 15:27:28 Hours
The much-anticipated Sri Pada pilgrimage season officially commenced on “Uduwap Full Moon Poya Day,” marking the start of a sacred journey that extends from December to May. This year’s sacred journey started with a series of religious activities held at the Sri Pada Raja Maha Viharaya temple in Galpoththaawala, Ratnapura.
The ceremonial proceedings began at an auspicious time, featuring the enshrinement of the relics casket and the statue of God Saman at the Pelmadulla Galpoththawala Sri Pada Viharaya and Advikanda Aramaya.
Dressed in ceremonial attire, the Gemunu troops took the lead of the relics casket and the statue, embarking on a ceremonial march from Palabaddala Purana Viharya to the summit at Sri Pada Maluwa along the Raja Mawatha. Simultaneously, another procession moved from Advikanda Aramaya via Erathna to Sri Pada Maluwa.
Centre Commandant The Gemunu Watch Brigadier AD Rodrigo RWP RSP psc, Senior Offrs, Offrs and 220 Other Ranks were actively participated in this revered religious ceremony, which they have led annually. The event attracted a large number of devotees who flocked to Sri Pada Maluwa, with many more lining the roads to pay their respects to the relics casket and the statue of God Saman.
This year's pilgrimage season promises to be a profound spiritual experience for all participants, as the community comes together to honor this significant cultural and religious tradition.
