By Athula Bandara - Anuradhapura

The mesmerizing sight of thousands of Buddhists flocking to Anuradhapura’s Mahamewna Uyana, where the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi is situated which is a customary sight on every Vesak Poya day was not seen yesterday. 

This was due to Buddhists being unable to make the customary pilgrimage to worship the Sri Maha Bodhi and receive the blessings of the triple gem as they had to abide by travel restrictions imposed by the Government to prevent the spread of Covid-19.   

Pooja ceremonies were conducted at Sri Maha Bodhi premises as usual on the instructions of the Atamasthanadhipathi, Chief Sanghanayaka of North Central province, Pallegama Siriniwasa Thero.   
A “Kiri Ahara” offering made annually to the Sri Maha Bodhi by Anuradhapura Sri Buddha Jayanthi Maha Vihara on Vesak day was conducted yesterday morning for the 54th time on the instructions of the Chief Incumbent of Sri Buddha Jayanthi Vihara, Chief Sanghanayaka of Asgiri Chapter of Siyam Maha Nikaya and North and North Central Provinces, Nugethenne Pannananda Thero.   

Several monks of the temple attended this ceremony which was conducted sans the participation of donors of the temple considering the current situation of the country.

   
The city of Anuradhapura looked empty due to the absence of people. Inbound and outbound vehicles were inspected by Police to check for those disobeying quarantine regulations.   

• Pooja ceremonies were conducted at Sri Maha Bodhi premises as usual on the instructions of the Atamasthanadhipathi, Chief Sanghanayaka of North Central province, Pallegama Siriniwasa Thero