Swadeshi Khomba illuminates Kiri Vehera and Ruhunu Maha Devalaya

The 2012 Esala festivals of the Kataragama Kiri Vehera and the Ruhunu Kataragama Maha Devalaya, two important places of worship in Sri Lanka, were illuminated by The Swadeshi Industrial Works PLC the pioneer herbal/personal care products manufacturer. The illumination is done under the theme of ‘Swadeshi Khomba Aloka Puja Sathkaraya’.

The events were conducted between 19 July and 1 August and Swadeshi sponsored the Aloka Poojawas for the eleventh consecutive year.

Swadeshi Chairperson Amari Wijewardene said that as a 100 per cent 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 was followed by a colourful cultural pageant which highlights Sri Lankan traditions and history.

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. The 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.