THE CONTRIBUTION TO THE CONSTRUCTION OF KURAGALA TEMPLE IS APPRECIATED

The Kuragala Buddhist Monastery under the blessings of the Chief Incumbent of the historic Nelligala International Buddhist Centre and the Chief Sanga Nayake of Rathnapura Maha Disawa, Most Venerable Vathurakumbure Dharmakeerthi Sri Mangala Dharmarathanabhidan Thero had organised a felicitation ceremony yesterday evening (01 September 2023) to respect and appreciate the invaluable commitment and contributions made in successfully construction of the temple. This felicitation ceremony which was scheduled to be taken place in the previous year forced to reschedule in this year due to the prevailing situation in the country then. The event was also blessed by the gracious presence of the Anunayaka theros of Asgiri and Malwathu Chapters along with a large number of Maha Sanga.

Kuragala Buddhist Monastery which extends 272 arcs was built and offered with the assistance of the Sri Lanka Army Engineer Services Regiment troops assisted by the troops of other Army regiments and the Civil Security Department (CSD) under the leadership and command of General Shavendra Silva during his office as the Commander of the Army. Once the temple was constructed, it consisted of all the elements that a temple should consist of including ‘Dharma Shalawa’, Pagoda, Maithree Buddha Stature, ‘Mal Asana’, Shrine Room etc. The construction of this temple also goes in modern history as the biggest construction project of a Buddhist site that was successfully completed within the shortest time period which is 11 months.

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Shavendra Silva WWV RWP RSP VSV USP ndc psc MPhil attended the event along with his spouse Mrs Sujeewa Nelson where the initiative and assistance of General Shavendra Silva to the successful completion of the construction of the temple within short period of time was highly appreciated and presented a plaque. The CDS during his tenure as the Commander of the Sri Lanka Army had been a main contributor to its construction process by providing the necessary workforce and other means necessary. The contribution extended by the Army Seva Vanitha Branch for this religious endeavour was also highly appreciated.

During the event, 135 personalities of the Sri Lanka Army, CSD, along with civil personalities were commended and appreciated by presenting a plaque for their valuable assistance and contribution in means of financial and other resources.

The ceremony was attended by the honourable Diyawadana Nilame of Sri Dalada Maligawa, government officials, distinguished invitees, and devotees.