Let’s build nation rooted in historical heritage: President

Saturday, 12 July 2025 00:57 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

President Anura Kumara Disanayake on Thursday stated that a society cannot progress without a meaningful connection to its historic heritage and that the nation’s development path must be chosen accordingly.

The President made these remarks while addressing a ceremonial gathering on Thursday afternoon at the historic Ruhunu Kataragama sacred site. Earlier in the day, he visited the sacred grounds of Kataragama, participated in religious observances and later paid a courtesy call on the Chief Incumbent of the historic Kirivehera Rajamaha Viharaya Ven. Kobawaka Dhamminda Nayaka Thera, inquiring about his well-being and engaging in a brief discussion.

The President also attended the final Randoli Maha Perahera (Golden Chariot Grand Procession) of the annual Esala Festival at the Ruhunu Kataragama Maha Devalaya, where he witnessed the ceremonial placement of the sacred relic casket upon the relic bearing tusker.

Addressing the gathering, the President further emphasised that a nation can only move forward by maintaining continuity with its historic heritage. He noted that every developed country in the world has achieved progress by preserving its historical legacy and building upon it, stressing that Sri Lanka, too, must choose a development path anchored in its heritage.

The President highlighted that Buddhism played a pivotal role in transforming our society into a cultured civilisation and that cultural festivals like this help revive and strengthen the moral and social values of a society often preoccupied with material pursuits.

He pointed out that the Ruhunu Kataragama Perahera has been held continuously for 2,186 years, spanning nearly a hundred generations and that its survival has been possible due to the deep connection between this cultural ceremony and the lives of the people. The President extended his gratitude to all those, including the Chief Incumbent, who contributed to the success of this year’s procession.

Among those present at the occasion were Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development Deputy Ministry R.M. Jayawardena, Uva Province Governor Kapila Jayasekara, MP Ruwan Wijeweera, Kataragama Pradeshiya Sabha Chairman Dharmapala Herath and Monaragala District Secretary Pasan Ratnayake.