• Defence Secretary reviews progress of the ‘Deegawapiya Stupa’ restoration project

Defence Secretary General Kamal Gunaratne, the ‘Author of the Deegawapiya Aruna Trust’ and ‘First Trustee’ chaired a meeting to discuss about the enshrining ceremony of the Sacred Relics and Treasures in the ‘Deegawapiya Stupa’ at the Defence Ministry on Friday (May 03).

The discussion was centred on the special matters related to the construction of the Sacred Relics Chamber of the ‘Deegawapiya Stupa’ and plans related to the enshrining ceremony of the Sacred Relics and Treasures in the Reliquary.

Deegawapiya, a place visited by Lord Buddha is considered one of the sixteen hallowed ancient religious sites in Buddhism. Therefore, attention was paid to provide opportunity for local and foreign devout donors to deposit their treasures in the ‘Deegawapiya Stupa’ which is a great opportunity for charity that comes once in a lifetime.

The restoration project which commenced under General Gunaratne’s guidance has witnessed significant progress in the rebuilding work. During discussions Gen. Gunaratne further instructed that the newly constructed Pilgrims Rest and Shrine Hall be opened on the same day as the enshrining ceremony of the Sacred Relics and Treasures in the 'Deegawapiya Stupa'.

Chief Prelate of Deegawapiya Temple Ven. Mahaoya Sobitha Thero, Chief Incumbent of Sri Sambodhi Viharaya and Chairperson of the Buddhist Channel Ven. Boralande Vajiraghana Thero, Director of the Architectural Conservation Prasanna B. Ratnayake, Senior Project Officer Colonel Sanjeewa and others including architects, planners and development officers were present at the meeting.