Security Forces (Jaffna) Hold ‘Katina’ Pinkama at Sri Naga Viharaya - Jaffna

The traditional ‘Katina Pooja’ of the historical Sri Naga Viharaya, Jaffna got underway on 26 & 27 October 2024 with a series of religious observances under the patronage of the Chief Incumbent of the Temple, Shasthrapathi, 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 MGWWWMCB Wickramasinghe RWP RSP ndu 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 26 October 2024, Bodhi Pooja and Dhamma Sermon were conducted with the participation of a large number of devotees. After keeping two days in Headquarters, 51 Infantry Division, the following morning, 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 GLSW Liyanage USP psc, Commander of Logistics Command, Security Forces (Jaffna). The religious programme conducted offering of ‘Heel Daana’ and ‘Atapirikara’ to Buddhist monks and Katinanisansa Sermon by the Chief Incumbent of the Temple.

The total event was coordinated and conducted under the supervision of Major General WBJK Wimalaratne RWP RSP, General Officer Commanding of 51 Infantry Division.

Religious Dignitaries, Mr. N Vethanayahan – the Governor of Northern Province, Mr. L Illangovan – the Chief Secretary of Northern Province, Mr. Shri Sai Murali S - the Consulate General of India in Jaffna along with civilian devotees and Rear Admiral AAAR Abeysinghe RSP USP ndc psc – Commander, Northern Naval Area, Mr. Kalinga Jayasinghe - Deputy Inspector General of Police, Jaffna along with tri forces and Police devotes attended the occasion.