30th October 2018 19:51:43 Hours
The conduct of Katina Cheewara Pooja at Mankulam Sri Sugatha Vihara, situated in the general area of Mankulam, served by 574 Brigade troops of the 57 Division under the Security Force Headquarters –Kilinochchi got underway during 27-28 October in the temple premises.
Troops of the 574 Brigade, 57 Division and the Forward Maintenance Area under the Security Force Headquarters –Kilinochchi before the Pinkama cleaned the sacred area and joined the ceremonial opening of the new shrine at the premises. Major General Niyshshanka Ranawana, Commander, Security Forces - Kilinochchi as the Chief Guest unveiled the Buddha statue in the shrine and offered a tray of betel inviting them to begin Pirith chanting throughout the night before the Katina procession begins the following morning (28).
Under the guidance of Ven. Hingurakande Sri Sugatha Thero, Incumbent at Sri Sugatha Vihara, 574 Brigade troops under the supervision of their Commander and following instructions of Major General Vijitha Ravipriya, General Officer Commanding, 57 Division, provided alms to the members of the Maha Sangha and the laity who attended the occasion. Nearly 300 civilians in the area took part in these ceremonies.
