Swadeshi Khomba illuminates Kiri Vehera and Ruhunu Maha Devalaya for 10th year

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 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 ongoing events began on 1 July and will end on 16 July and Swadeshi is sponsoring the ‘Aloka Poojawas’ for the 10th consecutive year.

Swadeshi Chairperson Amari Wijewardene said that as a 100 per cent Sri Lankan owned company, Swadeshi considered 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. 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, 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, Swadeshi Industrial Works 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 and recently introduced ‘Safeplus’ family hygiene soap.