Enshrinement of sacred relics and artefacts at the historic
Lahugala Neelagiri Stupa held under Defence Secretary’s patronage
July 15, 2024
The enshrinement of sacred relics and religious artefacts at the historic Neelagiri Stupa in Lahugala was held under the patronage of Defence Secretary General Kamal Gunaratne at the auspicious hour today (July 15).
Amidst the chanting of Seth Pirith and the blessings of the Maha Sangha, sacred relics and artefacts were enshrined in the centre and eight corners of the historic Stupa during the ceremony held this morning. Chief Incumbent of the Na Uyana Aranya Senasana Ven. Angulgamuwe Ariyananda Thero delivered a special sermon at the ceremony.
Speaking at the ceremony, Defence Secretary Gen. Gunaratne emphasized the importance of the Neelagiri Stupa restoration project, carried out with the assistance of the Department of Archaeology, to facilitate worship by devotees. He also expressed gratitude to the Chief Incumbent, Na Uyana Aranya Senasana, for extending financial support for the project.
The project is carried out under the guidance of the Defence Secretary and the supervision of the Air Force Commander, Air Marshal Udeni Rajapaksa. Restoration works are being carried out with the labour contribution of the Sri Lanka Air Force and are expected to be completed within two years.
The restoration work of the Neelagiri Stupa, which had been neglected for over three decades due to terrorist activities, recommenced in January 2022 under the instruction of the Defence Secretary and the supervision of the then Air Force Commander, Air Marshal Sudarshana Pathirana.
Located in the Ampara Lahugala forest reserve, the historic Neelagiri Stupa, considered the largest in the Eastern Province, is believed to have been built by King Kavantissa or Bhatikabaya. It was known as "Uththara Seevali Pabbata Viharaya" in ancient times. Excavations carried out by the Department of Archaeology have found the site to contain many sacred relics, artefacts, remains of small Stupas and inscriptions.
Venerable Maha Sangha, Minister of State for Indigenous Medicine, Rural and Ayurveda Hospital Development and Community Health Hon. Sisira Jayakodi, Army Commander Lieutenant General Vikum Liyanage, Air Force Commander Air Marshal Udeni Rajapaksa, Director General of Civil Security Department Air Vice Marshal Roshan Biyanwila, Director General Department of Archeology Professor Thusita Mendis, Director (Architectural Conservation) Prasanna B Ratnayake, senior military officers, government officials, Defence Ministry officials and devotees were present at the occasion.
