People and events

• Light as many pahanas as possible
• Appointed
• Help Needed

Light as many pahanas as possible

Thousands of little candle flames will glow in unison throughout the country, precisely at 7.30 p.m. on Sunday February 21. This 'Iti Pahan Pooja' is being initiated by the Association for Families of Servicemen Missing in Action, as a gesture of remembrance, appreciation and prayer.

"We request the people of Sri Lanka to unite in prayer on February 21 at 7.30 p.m. for the safe and speedy return of our loved ones who are missing in action, in remembrance of those who have lost their lives defending our motherland and to show our appreciation for those who have become disabled in their valiant efforts to protect us. And to pray for peace in our country," appeal the organizers Ms. Druki Martenstyn and Ms. Lali Kobbekaduwa, who have both lost loved ones in the war.

"It is a non political, non religious event and is meant to raise awareness of what the affected families are going through and the sacrifices that have been made," they stressed.

"It is because of those sacrifices that the people are able to go about their daily lives."

The Association for the Families of Servicemen Missing in Action was formed two years ago, for the purpose of bringing together these families so that they may help and console each other in their common grief. It is a traumatic situation for the families of missing servicemen because they do not know what has happened to their loved ones. They continue to hope and pray for the safe return of their fathers, husbands, sons and brothers. A special unit has also been set up by the President to assist these families in their problems. "What we are asking is for an acknowledgement of the Prisoners of War, through the ICRC," said Chairperson of the Association, Ms. Druki Martenstyn, whose husband is missing in action since January 1996.

On the 21st, the organizers have planned to conduct the 'Iti Pahan Pooja' in various places islandwide.

In Colombo, people will gather on the grounds opposite the Parliament at Kotte.

"However, even if you cannot join one of these gatherings, you can light your pahana in your own homes or neighbourhood at the same time, and place it where it can be seen. Our aim is to light as many pahanas as possible so that people become aware of what sacrifices have been made. We ask you to spare just ten minutes of your time to remember those who have made such sacrifices," Ms. Lali Kobbekaduwa said.

"Whatever your religion, if all congregate and pray for peace and for those who have suffered by the war, it is a very powerful prayer," Ms. Druki Martenstyn added.

The organisers have arranged with the radio and TV stations to play 'Ran Malak Lesa' over the Sinhala channels and "Make Me a Channel of Your Peace' over the English channels, simultaneously with the event.

Packs of ten pahanas are available for sale at Rs.25 per pack.

Appointed

Interim GM for Hilton

Wibo Wilmink has been appointed Interim GEneral Manager of Hilton Colombo until a permanent successor to the late Mr. Fernando is decided on. Dutch born Mr. Wilmink is an experienced hotelier whose association with Hilton International goes back 18 years. He hails from Hilton Seremban, Malaysia, which is yet to be opened.

Help Needed

Dharmavijaya Foundation, a Buddhist voluntary organization assists needy undergraduates in medical and engineering faculties with expensive and essential textbooks, through its Book Bank project.

This appeal, therefore, is addressed to business leaders, companies, banks and financial institutions, professional bodies, industry and trade chambers, NGOs and concerned Sri Lankans here and abroad to contribute to this cause.

Cheques should be written in favour of Dharmavijaya Foundation (AC payee) and addressed to 380/7/ Sarana Road, Bauddhaloka Mawatha, Colombo 7.

Any clarification could be had from the Administrative Officer on 698870, or Y.W. Gunawardena, Hony Vice President on 862167 (R). The Foundation is an Approved Charity and hence contributions would be tax-exempt.

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