During the reign of our glorious monarchs, the military always sought the blessing of the Sri Dalada Maligawa. This ancient tradition is still being sustained centuries later.
Therefore, the inaugural religious ceremony of the Army was held in Kandy on 28 September, starting a series of events to celebrate the forthcoming Army Day (October 10) and 68th anniversary of the Sri Lanka Army.
Lieutenant General Mahesh Senanayake, Commander of the Army, carried the Buddha Pooja for offering, with the participation of Maj.General Amal Karunasekera (Chief of Staff) and Maj.General Shavendra Silva (Adjutant General). In keeping with religious veneration and tradition the senior officers joined the Sangeeka Daana (alms-giving) to a total of 68 prudent clergy of the Maha Sangha. Lt. General Senanayake carrying a tray of Jasmine flowers paid his obeisance to the inner chamber, together with ‘Muruthen’ and ‘Gilanpasa’ offerings, amidst the pulsating beats of traditional drums.
As the Buddhist traditional rites and rituals of the daily Thevava were complete, the Commander on behalf of the army, bestowed a monetary donation to the Sri Dalada Maligawa, which was respectfully received by the Diyawadana Nilame, Pradeep Nilanga Dela Bandara. Led by Most Ven. Divulkumbure Wimaladhamma Anunayake Thera of Malwatte Chapter and Most Ven. Wenddaruve Upali Anunayake Thera of Asgiriya Chapter, 68 Buddhist clergy partook of the alms (Daana) offered by representatives of the Army.
The morning segment came to a close with the offering of Atapirikara and other symbolic Pirikara to members of the Maha Sangha.
Flags have been part of military ceremony for decades, as a flag symbolizes the strength, values and zest of a regiment. The day’s second highlight began at 5 pm, as 37 Regimental Sergeant Majors, proudly carried their flags from the main gate to the Sri Dalada Maligawa, accompanied by 37 officers. The Buddhist flag, the national flag and colourful Army Flags, including the Army Volunteer Force, all Security Force Headquarters, Divisions, Brigades, Regiments and Training Centre’s were carried in procession.
The march laden with pomp and decorum with the participation of the Army Commander, was watched by members of the public. It was similar to the British ‘trooping of the colour’ ceremony. The brief parade displayed the epitome of teamwork.
On reaching the entrance to the Dalada Maligawa the flags are folded and placed on silver trays, which were then carried by the officers to the upper chamber and the Paththirippuwa. Subsequently there was a ‘Gilanpasa Pooja’ at the Sri Dalada Maligawa which was patronized by the troops of the 11 Division Headquarters based at Pallekele.