The Agasas Maha Mangalyaya, the offering of the prominent portion of the new harvest to the Buddha and deities has taken place at the Dharmodaya Piriven Viaharaya this morning (10) in Girandurukotte under the patronage of President Mahinda Rajapaksa. It was done by Mahaweli 'C' division farmers in the area. They offered their new rice harvest of the Yala season amidst religious observances. The festival is an integral part of the harvest season in Sri Lanka and an annual ritual carried out for centuries.
The President arrived at the temple and initially engaged in religious observances. He has declared open the newly constructed Saman Devalaya of the temple premises and participated in the maiden Pooja with Veddha Chief Uruwarige Wannila Aththo. Thereafter the President also met the Chief Sanghanayake of the Uva- Bimtenna region Venerable Napatawela Dhammananda Thero. Large gathering including farmers were present. The President was also engaged in a friendly discussion with them.
Several Ministers, MPs and local politicians were present on the occasion.
Pix by: Sudath Silva
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