Archives

Second Ranweta opened at Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi

Ananda Kannangara reporting from Anuradhapura

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe yesterday pledged to complete the restoration work of Ruwanweliseya, Maha Mewna Uyana, Raja Wasala and Mirisavetiya in the Anuradhapura Sacred City within the next ten years.

The Prime Minister was speaking at the opening ceremony of the second "Ranweta" (Golden Fence) of the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi.

He said the Golden Fence was built with the assistance from all sections of the public and is an indication of the racial and religious unity of the country.

The Premier said that Theravada Buddhism still exists in the world due to the establishment of the Mahavihara in Anuradhapura.

He said although numerous threats came in various forms, the local kings who were the guardians of Buddhism did their utmost to protect and nourish Buddhism.

Following the establishment of the Mahaviharaya, several other temples including Abegiriya and the Jethawanaramaya were built in the area.

A large number of Mahavihara branches were also set up in India.

The Premier recalled the services rendered by Kings Devanampiyatissa and Dutugemunu for the development of Buddhism.

Reminiscing the day when the first "Ranweta" was erected during the Dudley Senanayake regime, the Prime Minister said the then Opposition Leader, late Prime Minister Sirima Bandaranaike was also present on that occasion.

www.crescat.com

News | Business | Features | Editorial | Security
Politics | World | Letters | Sports | Obituaries |

Produced by Lake House
Copyright 2001 The Associated Newspapers of Ceylon Ltd.
Comments and suggestions to :Web Manager