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Hearth-lighting ceremony at the Maligawa
View(s):Amidst the chanting of seth pirith the traditional hearth lighting ceremony took place at the Maligawa at the auspicious time took place this year
too.
The practice comes down from the time of King Wimaladharamsooriya under whose rule the Maligawa was built. The Diyawadana Nilame lit the hearth at the Hewisi Mandapaya or the drummers hall, a little away from the main royal entrance.
Traditionally the auspicious time for the ceremony at the Maligawa differs from the time that the rest of country lights the hearth on Avurudu day. This year, while the auspicious time for the Maligawa tradition was 1.45 p.m., the auspicious time for the people to light the hearth at home was 2.05 p.m.
Picture shows the hearth being lit by the Diyawdana Nialme Nilanga Pradep Dela while the Maha Sangha chanted Seth Pirith. (L.B)