Katina Pooja concludes at Sri Lanka Maha Viharaya in Lumbini

Saturday, 20 November 2021 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The Katina Pooja (ritual offering of new robes) ceremony of the Sri Lanka Maha Viharaya in Lumbini was held on 31 October with the participation of the Maha Sangha representing all Buddhist traditions present in the Lumbini Monastic Zone and lay Buddhist devotees.

This year also the Katina Pooja was sponsored by the Ambassador and staff of the Sri Lanka Embassy in Kathmandu. Sri Lankans in Kathmandu also contributed to this meritorious event.

The Katina Pooja ceremony was initiated with the blessings of Malwatu Chapter of the Siyam Maha Nikaya Chief Prelate Ven. Thibbatuwawe Sri Siddhartha Sumangala Mahanayaka Thero, with the guidance of Sri Lanka Maha Vihara in Lumbini Trustee Ven. Dr. Gallehepitiye Pemarathana Thero, and under the close direction of resident monk in charge Ven. Shastravedi Tissamaharamaye Pannasara Thero.

The religious program commenced in the evening of 30 October with an Ashirwada Pahan Pooja and pirith chanting at the Maya Devi Temple where Prince Siddhartha was born. In the early morning of 31 October, the Katina Cheewara was taken in procession to Maya Devi Temple, and brought to the Sri Lanka Maha Vihara where it was handed over to the Maha Sangha as per the custom. The offering of Katina Cheewara was conducted after the midday almsgiving. Ven. Prof. Nepalaye Sankichcha Thero of the Lumbini Buddhist University delivered the Katinanisansa sermon.

The religious ceremony was held with the participation of Sri Lanka Ambassador to Nepal Himalee Arunatilaka, SAARC Secretary General Esala Weerakoon, Armed Police Force of Nepal Inspector General Shailendra Khanal, officers of the Sri Lanka Embassy, SAARC Secretariat and the Sri Lanka Dutugemunu Pilgrims Rest, Sri Lankans residing and working in Nepal and invitees.