Army Bhakthi Gee programme, a colourful event

A Bhakthi Gee performance. Picture by Saman Sri Wedage

Officers and soldiers attached to the Army Buddhist Association, with the coordination of the Seva Vanitha Army Branch (SVAB), paid homage to the memory of Arhat Mihindu Thera and his arrival in Sri Lanka on Poson Full Moon Poya Day at a colourful Bhakthi Gee concert on June 15 at the Defence Services School auditorium.

Army Commander Lieutenant General Jagath Jayasuriya was the chief guest. Seva Vanitha Army Branch President Manjulika Jayasuriya also attended. Both were welcomed by Army Buddhist Association Chairman Major General D R A B Jayatillake.

The spectacle, a tribute to the historic Mahindagamana that transformed the Sri Lankan social and cultural fabric, consisted of several features presented by Viru Daru societies members, Army cultural troupe and the Army band. A separate drama with the participation of about 25-30 Viru Daru members drew the attention of the spectators.

Devotional songs, most of which are novel in lyrics and melody were composed by Army personnel, serving the Army band and the cultural troupe. Several popular vocalists such as Sujatha Attanayake, Ishaq Beg, Dayan Vitarana, T M Jayaratne, Amarasiri Peiris, Edward Jayakody, Charita Priyadharshani and Deepika Priyadharshani Peiris performed voluntarily in the concert at the invitation of the Army. A large number of senior Army officers, Defence Services School authorities, SVAB members, Viru Daru society members and invitees attended the event. All those who took part in the concert were awarded mementos.