Swadeshi Khomba illuminates ‘Matale Alu Viharaya’ during Vesak Poya

Swadeshi Industrial Works Kandana Chairperson Amari Wijewardene illuminating the historic Matale Alu Viharaya

The Swadeshi Industrial Works PLC, the market leader in Sri Lanka for herbal personal care products, has sponsored the ‘Aloka Poojawa’ of the historic Matale Alu Viharaya during this Vesak Poya under the theme, ‘Swadeshi Khomba Aloka Puja Sathkaraya’ a concept of Swadeshi Chairperson Amari Wijewardene.

Situated in the Matale district, the history of Alu Viharaya dates back to 3rd century BC. During 1st century BC in the reign of King Walagamba, under the leadership of Kunthagathatissa thero 500 scholarly Buddhist monks congregated at Aluvihare Rock temple to perform the difficult task of first reciting the doctrines and agreeing on an acceptable version before transcription of ‘Tripiṭaka’. The entire transcription was done in books made of ola leaves. In 1803 and 1846 British destroyed the temple and burnt the original transcription of ‘Tripiṭaka’. In late 20th century it was re-done and now been kept at the International Buddhist Library, Alu Vihare. 

Swadeshi Chairperson Amari Wijewardene said that, Swadeshi being a Sri Lankan owned company, considers safeguarding the culture and traditional heritage of Sri Lanka by supporting such activities as this annual Aloka Pooja, a duty and also a debt the company owe towards mother Lanka.

She further observed, Swadeshi illuminates places of worship in the country for the benefit and ease of all worshippers and also with the intention of educating younger generation on the importance of safeguarding the country’s culture and heritage. “We should encourage worshippers to visit the temples without any fear at this point of time,” she added. 

In 2013 the ‘Sri Dalada Maligawa’ of historic Dambadeni Raja Maha Viharaya and the ancient murals were renovated by Swadeshi Chairperson Amari Wijewardene to bring back its past glory.

Amari Wijewardene is the great granddaughter of Helena Wijewardene Lamatheni, who initiated renovations of the Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya in 1927.

Swadeshi also supports the Aloka Poojas of Kataragama Kiri Wehera, Ruhunu Kataragama Maha Devalaya, Sabaragamu Maha Saman Devalaya, Devundara Sri Vishnu Devalaya, Redigama Ridi Viharaya, Dambadeniya Raja Maha Viharaya and Keragala Raja Maha Viharaya. 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 Swadeshi are Khomba Herbal, Khomba Baby, Rani Sandalwood, Apsara, Perlwite, Lak Bar, Lady, Black Eagle (Perfume & After Shave), Swadeshi shower gel range and the one and only kids range ‘Little Princess’. 

The company also manufactures and markets the top herbal soap brand Khomba Herbal and heritage beauty soap brand Rani Sandalwood.