Swadeshi Khomba illuminates Kiri Vehera and Ruhunu Maha Kataragama Devalaya
Saturday, 17 August 2013 00:00
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The 2013 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 will be done under the theme of ‘Swadeshi Khomba Aloka Puja Sathkaraya’.
The ongoing events began on 7 August and will end on 20 August 2013. Swadeshi is sponsoring the Aloka Poojawas for the 12th consecutive year.
Amari Wijewardene, Chairperson of Swadeshi, said that as a 100% Sri Lankan owned company, Swadeshi considers 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’s heritage. The illumination will be followed by a colourful cultural pageant which highlights Sri Lankan traditions and history.
Amari Wijewardene is the great granddaughter of Helena Wijewardene Lamatheni who started the renovations of the Kelaniya Viharaya in 1927. 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 and 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, the Swadeshi Industrial Works PLC, was incorporated in 1941. Among the pioneer brands of the 100% Sri Lankan owned company are Khomba Herbal, Khomba Baby, Rani Sandalwood, Safeplus, Apsara, Perlwite, Lak Bar, Lady, Black Eagle (perfume and after shave), the Swadeshi shower gel range and the newly launched kids range ‘Little Princess’. The company also manufactures and markets the top herbal soap brand Khomba Herbal and heritage beauty soap brand Rani Sandalwood.
