Swadeshi Industrial Works PLC has sponsored the ‘Aloka Poojawa’ of the historic Sabaragamuwa Maha Saman Devalaya and Dambadeniya Raja Maha Viharaya for the 16th consecutive year.

Saman Devalaya is the repository for the Sacred Tooth Relic for 11 years in Sri Lankan history (from 1581 AD to 1592 AD). Situated in the Ratnapura district, the Sabaragamuwa Maha Saman Devalaya was built in the 13th century in the reign of King Parakramabahu II. The existing structure was built in the reign of King Rajasinghe II in the 17th century.

Dambadeniya was the third kingdom in Sri Lanka and the Viharaya was built in the reign of King Parakramabahu II. The Dalada Perahera was begun to pay homage to the Sacred Tooth Relic, which was kept there for 13 years.

The illuminations were done under the theme; ‘Swadeshi Khomba Aloka Puja Sathkaraya’.

Swadeshi Chairperson Amari Wijewardene said that Swadeshi, being a Sri Lankan owned company, considers safeguarding the culture and traditional heritage of Sri Lanka by supporting such activities as this annual Aloka Pooja, a duty and also a debt the company owe towards Mother Lanka.

She further observed, Swadeshi illuminates places of worship in the country for the benefit and ease of all worshippers and also with the intention of educating younger generation on the importance of safeguarding the country’s culture and heritage. The illumination is followed by a colourful cultural pageant which highlights Sri Lankan traditions and history.