A vow on behalf of war heroes becomes a reality

The near three decade armed conflict saw an end in May last year. A Sri Lankan who yearned for the end of the war and who had made a vow, began fulfilling it after the conflict ended with the defeat of the Tigers by the Sri Lankan military.

And during the week dedicated to the War Heroes, the vow became a reality.

Deshabandhu Mrs. Ganga Sudarshani Karunaratne together with her husband Nalin Dharmendra Karunaratne, with the permission of the Chief Incumbent of the Mahiyangana Rajamaha Viharaya, began a project for a ‘Dharmasalawa’ or preaching hall for the historic Viharaya, to fulfill the vow. That was in July last year.

Since this was to honour those who fought and or sacrificed their lives and limbs on behalf of the country, President Mahinda Rajapaksa, Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa, the commanders of the three forces, ministers and several ambassadors were present for the ceremony where the foundation was laid.

On May 15 this year, the hall, completed at a cost of several millions was declared open with several distinguished guests in attendance.

Religious rites were performed by Asgiriya Chief Prelate Udugama Sri Buddharakkitha Mahanayake Thera and other members of the Maha Sangha.

The Russian, Myanmar,Thailandand French Ambassadors were present on the occasion along with Minister Tissa Karaliyadde, MPs Wijedasa Rajapaksha, Ranjith Maddumabandara, Lakshman Seneviratne, Veddah chief Vanniyela aththo and a host of others.

Photo caption: The completed preaching hall (top) and Mrs. Ganga Sudarshani Karunaratne with her husband Nalin Dharmendra Karunaratne during the opening ceremony.