51 Infantry Division Hold ‘Katina’ Pinkama at Sri Naga Viharaya - Jaffna

The traditional ‘Katina Pooja’ of the historical Sri Naga Viharaya, Jaffna got underway on 11 & 12 October 2025 with a series of religious observances under the patronage of the Chief Incumbent of the temple, Venerable Meegahajandure Sirivimala Thero in the presence of a large gathering of military and civil devotees.

The event was patronized by the troops of 51 Infantry Division under the guidance of Major General KAN Rasika Kumara ndc psc, the Commander, Security Forces (Jaffna). Sri Lanka Navy, Sri Lanka Air Force, Police, the Special Task Force and the civilian community of all areas of the country extended their untiring support to the success of the religious event.

On 11 October 2025, Bodhi Pooja and Dhamma Sermon were conducted with the participation of a large number of devotees. keeping one day each in Headquarters, 51 Infantry Division and 512 Infantry Brigade, the following morning on 12 October 2025, the Katina Cheevaraya was brought to the Temple from Headquarter, 512 Infantry Brigade in a procession at about 0500 hours and offered to Maha Sangha by Major General HPI Perera RWP RSP, Commander of Logistics Command, Security Forces (Jaffna). The religious ritual conducted offering of ‘Heel Daana’ and ‘Atapirikara’ to Buddhist monks and Katinanisansa Sermon conducted by the Chief Incumbent of the Temple.

The total event was coordinated and conducted under the supervision of Major General MPNA Muthumala USP psc, General Officer Commanding of 51 Infantry Division.

Religious Dignitaries, Mr. N Vethanayahan - the Governor of Northern Province, Mr. M. Pradeepan - the District Secretary to Jaffna along with civilian, tri forces and Police devotes attended the occasion.