Colombo, February 27 (Xinhua/newsin.asia): The Navam Full Moon Poya Day, a traditional Sri Lankan Buddhist festival, is celebrated in February every year at Colombo’s famous Buddhist shrine, the Gangarama Temple.
The authorities had reduced the number of dancers and elephants in the parade this year at the 43 rd. Nawam Perahera held on February 26 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Only a dozen elephants participated.
Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa graced the occassion attended the function. The procession was organized under the guidance of Ven. Galaboda Gnanissara Thero and under the supervision of Dr. Kirinde Assaji Thero who resides in Gangarama Vihara.
The President placed the casket which contains relics on the back of the elephant carrying the casket. The procession was held strictly adhering to the health guidelines due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The elephants were richly decorated and upcountry and low country dance troupes entertained the devotees as the procession wended its way through the streets around the temple.
The procession was organized under the guidance of Ven. Galaboda Gnanissara Thero and under the supervision of Dr. Kirinde Assaji Thero who resides in Gangarama Vihara.
The President placed the casket which contains relics on the back of the elephant carrying the casket. The procession was held strictly adhering to the health guidelines due to the Covid -19 pandemic.
The Perahera carried a spectacular vibe with the participation of upcountry, low country dance troupes and elephants.
Ministers, state officials, chiefs of security divisions and several others were present at the occasion.
