Asgiriya Prelate has done much for Buddhism - PM

The great service rendered by the Most Ven Udugama Sri Saddharmakeerthi Sri Dhammadissi Ratanapala Buddharakkita Mahanayake Thera of the Asgiriya Chapter to the Buddha Sasana and the nation will always be gratefully remembered, states Prime Minister D M Jayaratne in a message to mark the prelate's 82nd birthday today.

The message: "The Mahanayake Thera made a laudable contribution to create a Buddhist revival in the country during the 2,600th Sri Sambuddhatva Jayanthi period. The prelate who clearly understood the religious and social service required, had led an exemplary Bhikkhu life. Today we are going through a very complex period where international conspiracies are operating against the country.

"In this background, the great courage and strength offered by the Mahanayake Thera to help the country to meet and overcome these challenges is highly noteworthy.

"May the Ven Mahanayake Thera be blessed with good health, strength and long life to enable him continue his noble service towards the Buddhasasana."