More amenities for Kataragama pilgrims

by M. Nelson PIYARATNE, Kataragama Group Cor.

People from different walks of life from the North and the East pay homage to God Katargama in their Pada Yatra pilgrimage. Among them are those from he learned professions too. They were vegetarians said Uva Chief Minister and Kataragama Basnayake Nilame, Shasindra Kumara Rajapaksa at the Esala festival committee meeting at Daya Gamage Hall, Kirivehera to discuss the organising of the forthcoming Esala Festival 2012.

The meeting was held under the patronage of Moneragala District Secretary A. Pathinadan who is also in-charge of Esala festival camp.

The Chief Minister said that more than 50,000 foot pilgrims (Pada Yatra) are expected this time who trudge their weary way to the sacred city and the officials have to ensure their basic facilities such as drinking water, health and safety. Ven. Dr. Aluthwewa Sortha Thera, Incumbent of the Kirivehera and Chancellor, Uva-Wellassa University said that the theme of the Esala festival should be "Appreciate the humanity" which is very important.