Construct 60 Maha Rahathan statues

Ariyapala Wansathilake Kurunegala central special corr.

The Gokarella “Uturu Pawwa” Raja Maha Viharaya situated in the Hiriyala electorate in the North Western province is about 17 miles from Kurunegala town.

This was built by King Devanampiyatissa.

This centre is located on the top of the rock spreading over about five acres which is rich in biodiversity. It has a unique eco-system which is endangered, its wide variety of plants consists of valuable trees and bushes.

The chief incumbent of “Uturu Pawwa” Raja Maha Viharaya Ven. Manapaha Ananda Thera has decided to construct 60 “Maha Rahathan” statues top of the rock and laid foundation stone on March 27.

Its history is couched in legend. The environment has become more picturesque.

The hill side is gifted by nature. The caves of the temple are not yet cleared. But the area is somewhat dry.

The Sacred Bo-tree is planted at the entrance to the cave and receives respect and honour from the devotees.

Ven. Manapaha Ananda Thera told the Daily News our duty is to protect, preserve and develop this fragile eco-system from thousands of devotees who climb this beautiful rock.

The Dayaka Sabha will be expecting some donors from the Buddhists to complete this task before 2009.