125th anniversary:

Hoisting first Buddhist flag in country

Elaborate arrangements have been made to commemorate the 125th anniversary of the hoisting of the first Buddshist flag in Sri Lanka on April 28, 1885.

The historic event was held 125 years ago at Dipaduttaramaya, Kotahena, Colombo by Ven. Migettuwatte Gunananda Nayake Thera.

To commemorate this historic event, a special religious ceremony will be held on April 28, Full Moon Poya Day at Dipaduttaramaya Thai Raja Maha Vihara, Kotahena at 4 pm.

It will be followed by a State-sponsored Vesak week in May which include an essay and poem competition among Buddhist schools, issuance of a commemorative stamp and construction of a commemorative monument of the Buddhist Flag.

The events are organised by Prince College, Kotahena. Other Buddhist organisations will also be celebrating this historic event in various parts of the country.

The present incumbent of Dipaduttaramaya Thai Raja Maha Vihara, Ven. Waskaduwe Mahindawansa Anunayake Thera who heads the organising committee said the historic Buddhist flag will be hoisted again at its original place at 4 p.m. on this day amidst a gathering of Maha Nayaka Theras and State dignitaries.