(COLOMBO, LANKAPUVATH) –The Sannasa (Scroll) on the successful conclusion of the annual Kandy Esala Perahera was handed over to President Maithripala Sirisena by Diyawadana Nilame Nelanga Dela Bandara at the President’s House in Kandy yesterday ( August 15).
The President warmly received the Diyawadana Nilame including the ‘Sathara’ (four) Kandy Devala Nilames and the ‘Pitisara’ Devala Nilames who came in a procession to the President’s House.
The Diyawadana Nilame, in keeping with the tradition presented the Scroll to the President.
Addressing the gathering the President said that this historic cultural festival is not only a very important part of our proud culture but also a spiritual offering that reflects the customs of the country.
The President also stated that the government had launched a special security programme during the Kandy Esala Perahera under his instructions while providing full state patronage to successfully hold the Esala Perahera.
President Sirisena expressed his regret over statements made by certain members of the government alleging that the national security of the country has been weakened at a time when the national security has been strengthened and peace has been established among all communities.
The President pointed out that a speculative fear and suspicion have been created among people due to these statements and that it is an obstacle to every activity including the development of the country and said that no one should attempt to make an anarchical status in the country for the sake of gaining their narrow political gains.
The President added that the government and the security forces have jointly implemented a mechanism to ensure the maximum security of the country after the incidents occurred on 21st of April and when comparing to the experiences in other countries in the world Sri Lanka will not have to face such repeated incidents.
The President also extended his gratitude to all security forces including the three armed forces who were committed to ensure the safety of the Kandy district to hold the Esala Peraher amidst many obstacles.
President Sirisena presented prizes and awards to the artists who participated in the Kandy Esala Perahera.
The President also donated financial aids for the conservation activities of the ‘Sathara’ Maha Devalas and ‘Pitisara’ Devalas.
The book titled ‘Sacred Dalada Tradition’ (Pujaniya Dalada Sanskruthiya) was presented to the President.
President also offered fruits to ‘ Sindu’ , the baby elephant.
Then the President and the Nilames posed for a group photo as per the customary tradition.
First Lady Jayanthi Sirisena, Central Province Governor Rajitha Keerthi Tennakoon, North Central Province Governor Sarath Ekanayake and Secretary to the President Udaya R. Seneviratne and several others were present at the occasion.
