President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has called for the protection of Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage from political interference, stressing that the historic Esala Maha Perahera should never again become a subject of political debate.
The President made the remarks at the President’s House in Kandy during the traditional ceremony held to receive the ‘Sannasa’, the ceremonial scroll formally conveying the successful conclusion of the annual Esala Maha Perahera of the Sri Dalada Maligawa and the Sathara Maha Devala.
President Dissanayake expressed his gratitude to the Most Venerable Mahanayake Theros of the Malwathu and Asgiriya Chapters and the Maha Sangha for their guidance in ensuring the successful conduct of the Perahera.
He also extended his appreciation to the Diyawadana Nilame, the Nilames of the Sathara Maha Devala, State officials, artistes and everyone involved in maintaining the traditions and splendour of the annual procession.
Reflecting on the historic relationship between the State and the Sacred Tooth Relic, the President emphasised the importance of protecting the Perahera as a national and cultural heritage.
He said it was entirely inappropriate for anyone to use such a historic tradition for political purposes or as a means of settling disputes. He further stressed that there should never again be even a discussion on a political platform in Sri Lanka about stopping the Perahera.
The President also highlighted the need for a determined national effort to combat the growing menace of drugs. He said safeguarding Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage, national pride and deep-rooted connection to the land requires society to confront challenges that threaten its social fabric.
He observed that as wealth and power have increasingly become measures of value in society, Sri Lanka must reconsider the values it places at the centre of national life.
According to the President, human relationships, cultural heritage, the connection with history and compassion for others should become the values that guide society.
President Dissanayake noted that Perahera traditions throughout the country, led by the Dalada Perahera, have an important role to play in building the civilised society Sri Lanka aspires to create.
While stressing the importance of preserving traditional artistic communities, he said the country also needs a strong cultural revival with the support of the State.
The President called on all Sri Lankans to join in initiating a new era of cultural renaissance that would awaken the nation and help the country overcome the adverse conditions it currently faces.
