President says conduct of Perahera helped to preserve traditions

President Gotabaya Rajapaksa today (23) said by conducting the annual Dalada Perahera even amidst the COVID-19 pandemic the ancient tradition has been preserved.

President was speaking at the occasion of receiving the Sandeshaya (scroll) at the President's House, Kandy indicating the successful conclusion of Dalada Perahera. The scroll was handed over by the Diyawadana Nilame Nilanga Dala.

“We have been able to conduct the 'Sri Dalada Perahera' festival this year as well in line with ancient traditions and customs and it is a ‘Buddhalambana’ bliss to all Buddhists”, he said.

The President welcomed the Diyawadana Nilame at Sri Dalada Maligawa and the Basnayaka Nilames of Sathara Devala and other Devalas who were present to announce the successful completion of this noble task.

“I recall with gratitude the guidance and the blessings of the Maha Sangha including Maha Nayaka Thero of the Malwatta Chapter Most Ven. Thibbotuwawe Sri Siddhartha Sumangala Thero, Maha Nayaka Thero of the Asgiri Chapter Most Ven. Warakagoda Sri Gnanarathana Thero and the Anu Nayaka Theros, to conduct the Perahera in line with health guidelines and by preserving the identity, the respect and the blessing of this Maha Pooja that is being held on behalf of the Most Sacred Tooth Relic”, he added.

“Whatever challenges and obstacles befall on the country, we know that there are a number of national responsibilities and duties entrusted upon us that we should fulfill. Since ancient times our rulers believed that the performing of respectful rituals to venerate the Most Sacred Tooth Relic should be given utmost priority. They handed over that tradition from one generation to the other. I am also committed to perform all the rituals to venerate the Most Sacred Tooth Relic with utmost respect by following the way of the ancient kings and all the previous Heads of the State”, he said.

“Even amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, we were able to preserve the ancient tradition of holding the Dalada Perahera festival this year as well with great respect to carry forward this important tradition to our future generations.

“We can be contented as a government that has continuously set forth the traditions of the past. Under the guidance of our venerable Maha Sangha, you have upheld the traditions preserved by our ancient kings,” he added.

“We consider the commitment towards Most Sacred Tooth Relic as a commitment made towards the country and the nation. We wholeheartedly believe that every successful step made for the betterment of the country had the protection and blessing of the Most Sacred Tooth Relic”, he said.