CORPS OF SRI LANKA ENGINEERS COMMEMORATES 73RD ANNIVERSARY WITH CULTURAL, SPIRITUAL AND RELIGIOUS CERAMONIES

The Corps of Sri Lanka Engineers celebrated its 73rd anniversary with a vibrant Perahera and an all-night Pirith Chanting Ceremony, honoring Sri Lanka's rich cultural and spiritual heritage on the 6th of November. The event began with a colorful Perahera, a grand procession featuring traditional dancers, drummers, torchbearers, and flagbearers, each adding symbolic meaning and energy to the gathering.

Major General Lanka Amarapala RWP RSP ndc psc, the Commander Security Forces (West) and Colonel Commandant of the Corps of Sri Lanka Engineers, respectfully carried the sacred relic casket to the ‘Pirith Mandapaya,’ following traditional customs. The Maha Sangha was ceremoniously escorted into the Pirith Mandapaya, with Major General Lanka Amarapala offering the customary Deheth Wattiya (tray of betel) to invite them to commence the overnight Pirith Chanting Ceremony. This symbolic gesture set the tone for invoking blessings upon the Corps on its anniversary.

The Maha Sangha delivered an Anusasana (oration), extending blessings for the Corps, honoring injured war heroes, and transferring merit to the fallen soldiers. The Pirith Chanting continued throughout the night, filling the air with prayers for peace, spiritual protection, and blessings.

On the following morning, the Corps concluded religious events related its 73rd Anniversary commemorations with the offering of ‘Heel Daana’ (alms-giving) and ‘Pirikara’ to the Maha Sangha held at the Sappers' Mess. The Alms Giving began at dawn, with the Corps members gathering to offer the first meal of the day to 30 invited monks from the Maha Sangha, a deeply respected act of merit-making in the Buddhist tradition.

After the alms-giving, the Corps presented additional offerings of Pirikara to the monks in an expression of gratitude and humanity, acknowledging the Maha Sangha’s support and blessing. In response, Maha Sangha conveyed their blessings through Anumodana (words of thanksgiving), praying for the welfare, protection, and prosperity of the Corps and its members.

Major General KAN Rasika Kumara ndc psc; Director General Media and Psychological Operations and Colonel Commandant of Corps of Engineer Services, Major General DKSK Dolage USP psc; Commandant Defence Services Command and Staff College and Colonel Commandant of Sri Lanka Army Medical Corps, Major General DBL Colonne USP, Major General TC Peris RSP USP; Chief Field Engineer of Sri Lanka Army, Council Members, Senior Officers, Retired Senior Officers, Officers, Other Rankers, and their families gathered in unity to participate in these events, making them a deeply meaningful tribute to the traditions upheld by the Corps of Sri Lanka Engineers.

Veterans who sustained injuries in battle, as well as parents and relatives of those who gave their lives for the nation, were also present, adding a profound emotional dimension to the ceremonies. Their presence highlighted a shared respect and appreciation for the Corps’ legacy and the sacrifices made to serve the country. They expressed heartfelt appreciation for the series of religious events commemorating the anniversary, which honored the fallen and those who continue to serve.