The Sri Lanka Navy has demanded a payment of Rs. 14,000 to provide boats for the 13th annual Binara Maha Perahera water-cutting ceremony on the Kalu River, Sinhala Ravaya Organization Chairman Venerable Magalkande Sudatta Thera said today.
The Sinhala Ravaya, which organized the event, raised concerns over the request, stating this is the first time in the history of the perahera such a demand has been made. The Thera said that the Binara Maha Perahera has traditionally been recognized as a Buddhist festival and received state sponsorship.
He further alleged that the Kalutara Municipal Council and its Mayor failed to provide essential facilities including lighting, drinking water, and sanitation for the thousands of devotees who attended.
Meanwhile, National People’s Power MP Nandana Padmakumara and the Kalutara District Secretary extended their full support to the organizers.
The Thera said he intends to submit a formal complaint to President Anura Dissanayake regarding the Navy’s request, with the financial estimate included for official review.
