Restoration of Mihindu Maha Stupa, Mihindu Cave and Relics House
October 25, 2020The restoration work of the Mihindu Maha Stupa, Mihindu Cave, and Relic house commenced yesterday evening (Oct 24) at the Mihintale Temple sacred area, under the directives of His Excellency the President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and with the contribution of Mahamevanawa Buddhist Monastery pool presided by Ven. Kiribathgoda Gnanananda Thero.
The restoration work commenced in line with the commemoration day of Arahant Mahinda thero’s passing away on Oct 23 which is the 2280th Mihindu Pura Atawaka Poya.
His Excellency the President Gotabaya Rajapaksa who graced the event as the Chief Guest unveiled the statue of Arahant Mahinda at the Sela Chaitya premises.
The Mahavamsa states that King Uttiya, the younger brother of King Devanapathissa who ruled between 200 - 210 BC, built the Mahinda Maha Seya by treasuring a part of the ashes of Arahant Mahinda. Mihindu Maha Seya is considered to be one of the oldest stupas in the country.
Renovation of the long dilapidated Mihindu Maha Seya began today to preserve its antiquity. Its renovations are scheduled to be completed before the upcoming Poson Poya.
Under the reconstruction program, plans are underway for the construction of the stone steps leading to the Mihindu Cave where Arahant Mahinda is believed to be meditating.
The restoration process will continue with the assistance of the Sri Lanka Army and the Navy under the directives of Defence Secretary Maj. Gen. (Retd) Kamal Gunaratne.
Venerable Maha Sangha including Chief Prelate of Taiwan Ven. Dr. Bodagama Chandima Thero, Minister S.M. Chandrasena, Minister Duminda Dissanayaka, Minister Shehan Semasinhe, Minister Prof. Channa Jayasumana, Defence Secretary Maj. Gen. (Retd) Kamal Gunaratne and ministry officials, government representatives and military and police officers also attended the event.
