25th November 2018 12:35:05 Hours
Unveiling the pinnacle (Kotha Nirawaranaya) of newly constructed Stupa at the Buddhist Centre Welikanda was held today (24th November 2018) under the patronage of the Commander Security Force (East) Major General Aruna Jayasekera coincide with his inauguration of the Office. Security Force Headquarters (East) facilitated this meritorious deed in line with the series of projects carried out to foster religious coexistence in the Eastern Province.
The religious ceremony was held, dignified by the presence of Maha Sangha, Officers & Other Ranks & a gathering of Buddhist devotees. The construction of this ‘Stupa’ was completed with the auspices of Mr. Saddhathissa from Kelaniya area and under the supervision of Security Force Headquarters (East). The foundation stone of this Stupa was laid on 26 June 2018 by the former Commander Security Force (East) Major General Santhusitha Pananwala and enshrining Sacred Relics in the hemispherical dome of the Stupa was held on 13 October 2018.
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 Aruna Jayasekera along with Mr. Saddhathissa unveiled the gold plated pinnacle of the Stupa at the auspicious minute amidst reverberating 'Pirith' chanting of Maha Sangha.
Brigadier General Staff Brigadier Shantha Hewawitharana, 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 construction of Stupa, one of the main features of Buddhist worship was completed fulfilling a long awaited requirement of the temple with the generosity of Mr. Saddhathissa from Kelaniya area.