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The historic Randoli Perahera of the Tissamaharama Raja Maha Viharaparaded through the streets last night (10), with the participation of Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya and other distinguished guests.
Following the placement of the Sacred Relic Casket, the 125th Perahera of the Tissamaharama Viharaya commenced its procession and this year’s Perahera was vibrant by the inclusion of traditional dance forms from the Udarata, Pahatharata, and Sabaragamuwa regions.
Addressing the ceremonial commencement of the final Randoli Perahera, Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya stated:
The Chief incumbent of the Tissamaharama Viharaya, Venerable Dewalegama Dhammasena Thero, is a monk who has devoted more than sixty years of his life to the Buddhism. He also rendered a great service to the people during the tsunami disaster. At a time when only a handful are involved in social service with genuine purpose, his sincere commitment to social service deserves high praise. I have been associated with the Tissamaharama Viharaya since the 1990s, and therefore I have a deep understanding of this temple.
There is a need for a political transformation as well as a social transformation in this country. Such change is also needed in the field of education. As a monk who has long understood this need, we believe that you will continue to work with us for the transformation of the nation.
A Perahera symbolically represents a cultural festival and throughout the procession, one witnesses a sense of unity, and in that sense, such cultural elements are vital for preserving communal harmony.
The Prime Minister further stated that she extends her respect and gratitude to Venerable Dewalegama Dhammasena Thero and all those who dedicated themselves to making this grand event a success.
The event was graced by the presence of the Chief incumbent of the Kataragama Kirivehera Temple, Venerable Kobawaka Dhamminda Nayaka Thero, Southern Province Governor Bandula Harischandra, Members of Parliament Nihal Galappaththi and Athula Weeragoda, along with government officials, diplomats, and a large number of attendees.
