Swadeshi Khomba illuminates Kiri Vehera, Ruhunu Maha Devalaya at Katharagama for 10th consecutive year
July 12, 2011 06:28 am
The 2011 Esala festivals of the Kataragama Kiri Vehera and the Ruhunu Kataragama Maha Devalaya, two important places of worship in Sri Lanka, are being illuminated by The Swadeshi Industrial Works PLC the pioneer herbal - personal care products manufacturer.
The illumination is done under the theme of “Swadeshi Khomba Aloka Puja Sathkaraya.”
The on-going events began on July 01st and end on July 16th 2011, and Swadeshi is sponsoring the Aloka Poojawas for the 10th consecutive year.
Mrs. Amari Wijewardene, Chairperson of Swadeshi said that as a 100 per cent Sri Lankan owned company, Swadeshi considers it a duty to safeguard the culture and traditional heritage of Sri Lanka by supporting activities such as this annual Aloka Poojawa.
She explained that Swadeshi illuminates places of worship in the country for the benefit of all worshippers and also to educate the younger generation on the importance of safeguarding the country’ heritage. The illumination is followed by a colourful cultural pageant which highlights Sri Lankan traditions and history.
According to the Mahavamsa, Kiri Vehera was built by King Mahanaga in a commemoration of the Buddha’s visit to Kataragama Kihiri Uyana to deliver dharma during his third visit to Sri Lanka.
The Kataragama Devalaya was built by King Dutugemunu as a fulfilment of a vow made to safeguard the national interests of Sri Lanka. The Lord Kataragama is worshiped by people of different races and religions not only in Sri Lanka but also in various parts of the world.
Swadeshi currently supports the Aloka Poojas of temples that honour the four guardian Gods of Sri Lanka, God Vibishana-Kelaniya, God Kataragama-Kataragama and God Saman -Saman Devalaya Ratnapura and God Uthpalawarna Sri Vishnu – Devundara.
The pioneer and market leader in the herbal personal care category in Sri Lanka, the Swadeshi Industrial Works PLC, was incorporated in 1941. Among the pioneer brands of the 100 per cent Sri Lankan owned company are Khomba Herbal, Khomba Baby, Rani Sandalwood, Safeplus, Apsara Venivel, Perlwite, Lak Bar, Lady and Black Eagle (Perfume) and the Swadeshi shower gel range. The company manufactures and markets the top herbal soap brand Khomba Herbal and the heritage beauty soap brand Rani Sandalwood. Company recently introduced “Safeplus” Family hygiene soap for Germ free body bath and care free active life.
Photo caption: (from left) Head priest of Sri Pada Rev. Hadapangoda Wimala Thero, Head priest of Kelaniya Raja MahaViharaya Rev. Kollupitiye Mahinda Sangarakkitha Thero, Head priest of Kataragama Kirivehera Raja Maha Viharaya Rev. Aluthwewa Soratha Thero, Chairperson/Managing Director of The Swadeshi Industrial Works PLC - Kandana, Ms. Amari Wijewardene and officials of Swadeshi.