President Ranil Wickremesinghe yesterday (29) called on the chief prelates of the Malwatte and Asgiriya Chapters in Kandy.
The president first visited the Malwatte Maha Vihara to meet with Most Venerable Tibbatuwawe Sri Sumangala Mahanayake Thera, engaging in a brief yet impactful conversation, said the President’s Media Division.
President Wickremesinghe received blessings and the venerated Theras chanted Seth Pirith and extended their blessings.
The president also paid a visit to the Anunayaka of the Malwatte Chapter, Most Venerable Dimbulkumbure Sri Vimaladhamma Thera, engaging in a concise and meaningful discussion.
Subsequently, the head of State proceeded to the Asgiriya Maha Vihara, where he received blessings from the Maha Nayake Most Venerable Warakagoda Sri Gnanarathana Thera.
Present on the occasion was the custodian of the historical Muthyiangana Rajamaha Vihara, Dr. Venerable Muruddeniye Dhammaratana Thera.
Continuing his interactions, the president visited the Anunayake Theras of the Asgiriya Chapter, Venerable Anamaduwe Dhammadassi Thera and Venerable Vedaruve Upali Anunayake Thera, engaging in insightful discussions.
Former UNP chairman Malik Samarawickrama accompanied the president in the visits, the PMD added.
Protection of religious shrines & historical sites
During his visit to Kandy, president Wickremesinghe emphasized the government’s resolute dedication to protect religious shrines and historical sites.
He announced the establishment of committees, headed by religious leaders from the respective provinces, aimed at addressing religious matters in the North and East.
