09th November 2021 10:41:07 Hours
The new three-storied 'Dharmashalawa' at the historic Somawathiya Rajamaha Vihara temple premises was declared open on November 07 after successful completion of the construction commenced in 2017 under 'Pibidemu Polonnaruwa Project' with the technical expertise of 15 Corps of Engineering Services (CES) troops of the Security Force Headquarters - East. The opening ceremony was organized under the counsel of the Chief Incumbent of Somawathiya Rajamaha Viharaya by Ven Pahamune Sri Sumangala Nayake Thero, Incumbent, Somawathiya Raja Maha Viharaya.
At the auspicious time, the former President Maithreepala Sirisena, the Commander Security Force (East) Major General Channa Weerasuriya together with several other dignitaries opened the new three-storied building after cutting the ribbon.
Thereafter, alms were offered to 50 members of the Maha Sangha and foundation stone laying for proposed Sangawasaya, Dhathu Mandiraya and Museum were also presided over by the dignitaries including the Commander Security Force (East) where the responsibility of the construction will mostly be entrusted with the troops of 15th Engineer Services Regiment.
On the request of the Chief Incumbent of Somawathiya Rajamaha Viharaya by Ven Pahamune Sri Sumangala Nayake Thero, certificates of appreciation were distributed among the troops of 15th Engineer Services Regiment who involved in the construction of new 'Dharmashalawa'.
The proceedings of the religious rituals were organized adhering to COVID-19 protocols taking the pandemic situation into consideration.
