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| Sunday, 22 June 2003 |
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Sons and Daughters of Sri Lanka H. C. Gunawardena former Ambassador for Sri Lanka in Thailand The former Ambassador for Sri Lanka in Thailand H. C. Gunawardena passed away in the early hours on 20th June at the Appollo Hospital after a brief illness. He was 79 at the time of death. A well-known social worker, Gunawardena held important positions in public service as Assistant Commissioner of Lands in Colombo district, Advisor on Buddhist Affairs in the Ministry of Housing and Construction, Chairman Anuradhapura Preservation Board and later Ambassador in Thailand. He rendered a valuable service to Buddha Sasana by renovation of religious buildings situated around Jayasiri Maha Bodhi at Anuradhapura, reconstruction of dilapidated buildings at Isinbessagala Rajamaha Viharaya, Neeravia Temple, Kurulupeththagala Temple in Medawachchiya and Lenadora Temple in Rakwana. The large Buddha Statue he constructed on a hillock near Ambastala Chaitya in Mihintale with the assistance of philanthropists is a monumental work. He assisted the Gam Udawa programme of late President Premadasa in numerous ways. The statues of kings of ancient Sri Lanka sculpted by prominent sculptor Ariyawansa Weerakkody, were erected by him as a permanent feature in Gam Udawa exhibition premises. He was instrumental in acquiring lands for the new Capital of Sri Jayewardenepura commenced by late President J. R. Jayewardene. While discharging duties as Ambassador, he took much efforts to strengthen religious ties with Thailand. With the blessings of His Majesty the King of Thailand, he was able to get a very old statue of archaeological value which had been taken from Sri Lanka in ancient times. Doreen Gunawardene wife, Suranganiee only daughter, Tissa Silva former member of Parliament for Rakwana son-in-law, Janesh and Saroj, grand sons are among the members of the bereaved family. |
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