Lake House Mihintale Aloka Pooja:

Preserve country’s history - Minister

Nimal Wijesinghe Anuradhapura Additional District Group Correspondent

Sri Lankans should focus more attention on preserving the country’s history, Media and Information Minister Keheliya Rambukwella said. “After 30 years of terrorism, people enjoy complete freedom today. Under these circumstances, we shouldn’t confine our religious activities only to Vesak and Poson Poya Days but throughout the year,” the Minister said delivering the keynote address at the inauguration of the second day of the Mihintale Aloka Pooja yesterday.

Minister Rambukwella said the Aloka Pooja organized by Lake House, since 1963 would be streamlined and restructured on the advice of the Maha Sangha.

“President Mahinda Rajapaksa is concerned about reviving the glory and the splendour which prevailed in the past. I am personally aware that the President is determined to preserve our historical monuments and shrine rooms,” the Minister said. Mihintale Raja Maha Vihara Chief Incumbent Venerable Walawahangunuwewa Dhammarathana Nayaka Thera in his Anusasana praised the prompt action taken by Disaster Relief Minister A.H.M. Fowzie and Deputy Minister S.M. Chandrasena in restoring the Mihintale Maha Seya which was severely damaged by a thunderbolt.

Lake House Editorial Director Seelaratne Senarath delivered the welcome address.