WEST TROOPS ORGANIZED A REMARKABLE CHARITY EVENT PARALLEL TO THE VESAK FESTIVAL AT BODHIRAJARAMAYA ARMY TEMPLE PANAGODA

Under the guidance of the Commander Security Forces (West), Major General U K D D P Udugama RWP RSP USP ndc psc the troops of Security Forces Headquarters (West), together with the Sri Lanka Army Buddhist Association and members of the ‘Sri Saman Meth Sansadaya’, organized a charitable and religious event at the Bodhirajaramaya Army Temple, Panagoda on 12 and 13 May 2025. The event was held to provide the public with an opportunity to worship the omniscient sacred relic and the disciple relics enshrined in the fragrance chambers of ‘Sri Saman Meth Sansadaya’.

This sacred occasion allowed devotees to pay their respects to the relics by offering flowers and participating in various acts of charity and devotion. It was open to people of all faiths, serving as a platform to promote interfaith harmony and celebrate the spirit of Vesak — a significant religious and cultural observance in Sri Lanka.

A highlight of the event was the special visit of the Chief of Staff of the Sri Lanka Army, Major General W W W M C B Wickramasingha RWP RSP ndu psc, who graced the occasion with his presence. During his visit, he paid homage to the sacred relics, observed the religious activities, and commended the troops for their commitment to preserving spiritual values and fostering community unity through such initiatives.

As part of the programme, the organizers arranged a ‘Belimal Dansala’ (herbal tea stall) and a ‘Kos Dansala’ (jackfruit stall) for the visiting devotees. These Dansals were ceremonially opened by the Commander Security Forces (West) on both days of the event, reflecting the spirit of giving associated with Vesak.

Adding to the serene and festive atmosphere, a beautiful display of Vesak lanterns illuminated the temple grounds, attracting large crowds and creating a spiritually uplifting ambiance. The lanterns, crafted with devotion and creativity by Army personnel, symbolized the light of wisdom and peace that Vesak embodies.

Throughout the event, the Commander took time to meet with the Army troops and members of the ‘Sri Saman Meth Sansadaya’ to personally thank them for their dedication and efforts in making the event a meaningful and memorable one. He, along with the Chief of Staff, emphasized the importance of such spiritual initiatives in fostering unity, compassion, and mutual respect among all communities across the nation.