By Ranjith Rajapaksa and Ajithlal Shanthaudaya 

The sacred relics, statue of the deity Saman, jewellery of the deities and puja items placed in Sri Pada Uda Maluwa were taken back to the Sri Pada Rajamaha Vihara in Galpottawela, Pelmadulla yesterday by Army soldiers, as the 2020-2021 Sri Pada pilgrimage season concluded on May 26 following the Vesak Poya Day.

In accordance with quarantine regulations, one procession starting from Sri Pada Uda Maluwa paraded along the Rajamawatha in Palabaddala, Ratnapura yesterday morning and another procession paraded from Uda Maluwa to Nallathanniya Buddhist Centre yesterday evening. 

A vehicle parade carrying the sacred relics, statue of the deity Saman, jewellery of the deities starting from Nallathanniya Buddhist Centre reached Galpottawala Raja Maha Viharaya passing Nallathanniya, Laxapana, Avissawella and Ratnapura. 

The parade was conducted on the instructions of the Sripadasthanadhipathi Chief Sanghanayaka of Sabaragamuwa Province and Chancellor of Uva Wellassa University Bengamuwe Dhammadinna Nayaka Thera. After a series of special religious rituals, the sacred relics, statue of the deity Saman, jewellery of the deities would be placed in Galpottawala Raja Maha Viharaya until the commencement of the next Sri Pada pilgrimage season. 
Dhammadinna Thera ensured that no devotees were allowed to worship the sacred relics, statue of the deity Saman, jewellery of the deities abiding by the quarantine regulations. 

•  No devotees were allowed to worship the sacred relics, statue of the deity Saman, jewellery of the deities abiding by the quarantine regulations
• In accordance with quarantine regulations, one procession starting from Sri Pada Uda Maluwa paraded along the Rajamawatha in Palabaddala, Ratnapura