Punya Grama aims at virtuous society

The Punya Grama programme, aimed at creating a good value oriented society centred around the village temple, will be launched by Prime Minister D.M. Jayaratne, on the directive of President Mahinda Rajapaksa.

It is intended for the youth, informed of their responsibility towards economic, social and spiritual development based on the concept of Wevai, Dagabai, Gamai,Pansalai.

Workshops will be organized under the Punya Grama programme with the participation of one main temple assisted by two other temples of the area. Around 500, including teachers and students of Sunday Schools and devotees of the temples will participate.

The programme includes paying tribute to parents, meditation programme, lecture on meditation, discussion on challenges faced by Buddhists and promotion of knowledge of the true essence of spiritual music.

Prizes and certificates will be awarded to schoolchildren participating in poetry, speech and drawing competitions.

A special gift parcel will be offered to participating children of war hero families, Buddha Sasana and Religious Affairs Ministry Secretary Cashian Herath said.

Rs. 75,000 will be donated to the temple used as the venue and Rs. 25,000 each to the other two temples. Exercise books and a copy of the Sirith Maldama will be presented to the children.