The special exposition of the Sacred Tooth Relic – the ‘Siri Dalada Vandanawa’ , will conclude this Sunday (April 27) as previously planned and will not be extended, ‘Diyawadana Nilame’ (Chief Custodian) of the Sri Dalada Maligawa, Pradeep Nilanga Dela states.
Issuing a special statement today (April 25), he stated: “We have been fortunate to have more devotees worshipping than planned.”
He stated that Kandy has become highly crowded due to a large influx of devotees coming from various parts of the island.
Due to the large numbers, there is a limitation of opportunities for devotees to worship the Sacred Tooth Relic, he said.
At the same time, we had to face obstacles with regard to environmental issues and providing hygiene facilities amid the massive crowds, he added.
He said a discussion was held in this regard with the President, relevant officials and religious leaders yesterday (April 24), after which it was decided to conclude the exposition on the planned date.
“For the welfare of the public, it has been decided to hold this pilgrimage only until April 27 as previously scheduled,” the Diyawadana Nilame said.