Special Bodhi Puja Conducted by the 51 Infantry Division at Naga Viharaya to Invoke Blessings for Cyclone Victims

A special Bodhi Puja was held at the sacred Naga Viharaya in Jaffna on 09 December 2025 under the direction of the Commander Security Forces Jaffna and the General Officer Commanding the 51 Infantry Division. The ceremony was dedicated to invoking blessings for Tri Forces, Police personnel and civilians who lost their lives, remain missing, or continue to endure hardship following the catastrophic impact of Cyclone Ditwah.

The ceremony was organized by the 512 Infantry Brigade in close coordination with the 14 Gajaba Regiment. Venerable Meegahajandure Siri Wimala Thero, Chief Incumbent of Naga Viharaya, presided over the proceedings, providing spiritual guidance that imbued the occasion with profound solemnity and religious significance.

A large number of officers and soldiers participated, representing the Security Forces Headquarters Jaffna, the 51 Infantry Division, and all brigades and battalions under command. The Commanders of the 511 Infantry Brigade and the 513 Infantry Brigade attended, along with staff officers from Security Forces Headquarters Jaffna, the 51 Infantry Division headquarters, all brigade headquarters, and commanding officers from constituent battalions. Participating units included the 10 Sri Lanka Artillery, 11 Sri Lanka Light Infantry, 17 Gemunu Watch, 14 Gajaba Regiment, 9 (V) Sri Lanka Light Infantry, and 15 Sri Lanka National Guard.

The disciplined participation of troops, combined with the solemn conduct of the ceremony, reflected the Sri Lanka Army’s commitment to honouring both the military community and the civilian population affected by the cyclone. The presence of senior commanders and a broad representation of units accentuated the unity, cohesion, and collective resolve of the Division in supporting post-disaster recovery and relief efforts.

This Bodhi Puja ceremony serves as a significant expression of remembrance, compassion, and spiritual resilience. The 51 Infantry Division, in conjunction with all brigades and battalions under its command, continues to provide comprehensive support to communities affected by Cyclone Ditwah, thereby reinforcing the enduring bond of solidarity between the Sri Lanka Army and the civilian population of the Jaffna peninsula.