(UDHAYAM, COLOMBO) – President Maithripala Sirisena requests the Venerable Maha Sanga to provide required guidance and assistance for the program carried out by the Government to preserve the books written on ola leaves that contain the thousands years of Sri Lankan history.
The President was speaking at the ceremony to unveil the pinnacle of the newly built Chaithya at the premises of the Pirivena of Asgiri Maha Viharaya in Kandy, on Monday (08).
He stated that the Government has implemented a comprehensive program to preserve the ola books which are facing destruction due to decay. He said the relevant sections have been advised to take steps to preserve them.
He also requested the guidance of the Thri-Nikayika Maha Sanga for the programs to be carried out to spread Buddhism world-wide, during the International Vesak Week.
This Chaithya which was built in high elevated premises in Kandy is 145 feet in height and 65 feet in diameter is. The Chaithiya includes a museum, a shrine room with Buddhist paintings and a rest room for devotees for meditation.
This Chaithiya was built by high-skilled professionals under the advice of Deputy Registrar of Asgiri Maha Vihara Chapter Ven. Narampanave Ananda Thero.
The President, who engaged in religious activities, also offered atapirikara to Maha Sangha. He handed over gifts to the artistes.
Maha Nayaka of Asgiri Chapter Most Ven. Varakagoda Gnanarathana Thero, Anu Nayaka of Malwathu Chapter Ven. Niyangoda Vijithasiri Thero, Ministers Lakshaman Kiriella, S. B. Dissanayake, Governor of the Central Province Niluka Ekanayake, Chief Minister Sarath Ekanayake were present on this occasion.
