161st Birth Anniversary of Anagarika Dharmapala Commemorated

The main event took place at the Hittetiya Raja Maha Viharaya in Matara, his birthplace, under the patronage of Southern Province Governor Bandu Harischandra. Floral tributes were offered at Dharmapala’s statue, followed by a keynote lecture delivered by Professor Ven. Iduragare Dhammarathana Thero. A scholarly volume dedicated to Dharmapala’s life and work was also launched.

The ceremony, jointly organized by the Southern Provincial Governor’s Office and the All Ceylon Buddhist Congress, also recognized winners of student competitions held across schools in the Southern Province, awarding them prizes and certificates.

In addition, a separate ceremony was held at the C.M.S. College in Kotte, where Dharmapala received his education. The event, led by Principal Gamini Hettiarachchi, included floral tributes at the statue of Anagarika Dharmapala within the school premises.