President Anura Kumara Dissanayake declared open the newly constructed two-storey building housing the Archaeological Museum and the International Archaeological Research Institute at the historic Somawathi sacred area in Polonnaruwa today.
The two-storey building was constructed under the plans and supervision of the Department of Archaeology, following the guidance of the Chief Incumbent of the historic Somawathi Raja Maha Vihara and Registrar of the Mahavihara Vansika Syamopali Maha Nikaya of the Malwatta Chapter, the Most Venerable Dr. Pahamune Sri Sumangala Nayaka Thera.
The project was fully funded through the financial contribution of Deshamanya Mithrapala Lankeshwara, Chairman of the Rathna Group, to facilitate the convenience of devotees who visit the historic site in Polonnaruwa where the Sacred Right Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha is enshrined, as well as those engaged in educational and research activities.
President Dissanayake, who visited the historic Somawathi sacred site this morning (06), engaged in religious observances and received blessings, the President’s Media Division said.
The President then unveiled the commemorative plaque,declaring open the new museum and research institute.
The President also made the first floral offering to the Buddha statue and the sacred relic casket enshrined within the premises.
Deshamanya Mithrapala Lankeshwara, Chairman of the Rathna Group, presented a commemorative gift to the President on this occasion.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Hiniduma Sunil Senevi, Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, noted that the new museum and institute will serve as a valuable gateway to understanding the rich history and archaeological significance of the Somawathi Chaityarajaya.
The ongoing development of the Somawathi sacred site will be implemented through a systematic plan that integrates science and technology, ensuring that this heritage is preserved and shared with both the people of Sri Lanka and the world, the Minister said.
The event was attended by the Maha Sangha, led by Registrar of the Mahavihara Vansika Syamopali Maha Nikaya of the Malwatta Chapter and Chief Incumbent of the historic Somawathi Raja Maha Vihara, the Most Venerable Dr. Pahamune Sri Sumangala Nayaka Thero, along with North Central Province Governor Wasantha Jinadasa, Deputy Minister of Housing T.B. Sarath, Members of Parliament and other public representatives, Ms. Manel Deepani Gamage, Director of the Rathna Group and members of the Dayaka Sabha. (Newswire)