President Anura Kumara Dissanayake arrived in Kandy this afternoon to participate in the ceremonial inauguration of the "Siri Dalada Vandana," a revered religious event being held after a 16-year hiatus.
The President took part in the traditional proceedings and later joined in paying homage to the sacred Tooth Relic at the Sri Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Tooth). A significant number of local and international diplomats were also in attendance, underscoring the cultural and diplomatic importance of the occasion.
Following the official ceremonies, the long-awaited Sri Dalada Maligawa pilgrimage was declared open to the public, marking a momentous occasion for devotees across the country. The event is expected to draw thousands of pilgrims in the coming days, rekindling a deep-rooted spiritual tradition.