The ceremonial awarding of the ‘Sri Sannas Patra’ to the newly appointed Supreme Mahanayaka Thero of the Sri Lanka Amarapura Maha Nikaya, Most Venerable Karagoda Uyangoda Maithree Moorthi Maha Nayaka Thero, Chief Incumbent of the Rassagala Chapter and Balangoda Sri Dharmananda Vidyayathana Pirivena, was held today (10) at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH) under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Disanayake.

President Anura Kumara Disanayake presented the ‘Sri Sannas Patra’ to the newly appointed Supreme Mahanayaka Thero of the Sri Lanka Amarapura Maha Nikaya.

Additionally, Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, Dr. Hiniduma Sunil Senevi offered the ‘Vijinipata’ to the Supreme Mahanayaka Thero.

Most Venerable Karagoda Uyangoda Maithree Moorthi Maha Nayaka Thero was born on October 1, 1948, in Kamburupitiya, Matara, and entered the noble monastic life in 1962 under the guidance of Aggamaha Pandita Balangoda Ananda Maithriya Thero. In recognition of his more than six decades of dedicated service to Buddhism, religion, society, and education, the Sri Lanka Amarapura Maha Nikaya has appointed him as the new Supreme Mahanayaka Thero.

Addressing the ceremony, President Anura Kumara Disanayake stated that in the process of restoring a morally upright nation, the Maha Sangha and religious institutions of this country bear an irreplaceable and profound responsibility.

The President further emphasized that no matter how many economic and political victories are achieved, they would be meaningless if a just and virtuous society is not established.

The President highlighted that the restoration of the nation’s fractured society cannot be achieved through law alone and stressed the need to build a compassionate society. He further stated that the country urgently requires a strong national dialogue on the essence of liberation, as preached by the Buddha and other religious leaders, for the well-being of its citizens.

The President also mentioned that discussions are currently underway with the Mahanayaka Theros regarding the Buddhist Dialogue Act. The President further noted that amendments to Sections 41 and 42 of the Viharagam and Dewalagam Ordinance have been drafted, and steps will be taken to present them to the Cabinet soon. Once approved, they will be submitted to the Parliament for enactment, ensuring the formal establishment of the Sangha Council and granting the necessary authority to the Mahanayaka Theros and the Sangha Sabha.

During the ceremony, commemorative publications, including the biography of the Mahanayaka Thero, were also presented to President Anura Kumara Disanayake.

The event was attended by the Maha Sangha representing the tri-Nikaya, former Presidents and Prime Ministers, Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa, Ministers, MPs, foreign Ambassadors and High Commissioners, Secretary to the President Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, government officials, members of ‘Dayaka Sabha’, and a large gathering of devotees.

(President’s Media Division)

Internationally renowned singer, songwriter, and entrepreneur Aloe Blacc arrived in Sri Lanka this morning (March 10) at the invitation of the new government and the Sri Lanka Tourist Board, marking a significant visit that extends beyond music. While best known for his chart-topping hits like ‘I Need a Dollar’ and ‘Wake Me Up,’ Blacc’s trip underscores his growing influence in biotechnology, healthcare innovation, and entrepreneurship.

Professor Gomika Udugamasooriya, Senior Advisor to the President on Science and Technology extended a warm welcome to Aloe Blacc upon his arrival at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA).

Speaking at the BIA, Blacc emphasized that he is delighted to contribute to the story that conveys to the world that Sri Lanka is an attractive investment destination. He expressed that it is a remarkable opportunity to collaborate with the Sri Lankan government and the National Initiative for Research and Development Commercialization (NIRDC).

He also highlighted the unique chance to observe first-hand the numerous investments taking place in Sri Lanka, including both new and established enterprises, as well as the innovative concepts being developed. Blacc noted his connections with numerous investors in the United States and across the globe, to whom he plans to share the story of Sri Lanka’s potential.

During his two-day stay in Sri Lanka, Blacc is expected to engage with local entrepreneurs, artists, fostering collaborations that could benefit both the cultural and scientific communities. His itinerary includes discussions with senior officials of the Presidential Secretariat, as well as meetings with local entrepreneurs specializing in cashew products, coconut-based products, organic goods, natural energy drinks, and food and agriculture, with a focus on authentic Ceylon cinnamon. Additionally, Blacc will participate in discussions with biotechnology experts, investment forums, and interactive sessions with aspiring musicians and innovators. As part of his visit, he will also explore Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage with trips to Sigiriya and Minneriya.

Aloe Blacc seamlessly blends music, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy. Initially aspiring to be a scientist, he founded Major Inc. in 2022 after contracting COVID-19, focusing on biotechnology solutions to prevent pandemics. His company collaborates with top scientists to develop treatments blocking viral infections, inspired by his father, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran. Beyond biotech, Blacc invests in tech start-ups like Polygraf and Giroptic, showcasing his commitment to innovation.  

In addition to his business ventures, Blacc continues to make an impact through music and philanthropy. His latest album, Stand Together (2025), promotes unity and resilience, while his humanitarian efforts include premiering ‘Shine’ Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity ceremony in April 2024 to honour individuals supported by the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative, reinforcing his dedication to social impact through music.

Aloe Blacc’s visit to Sri Lanka not only celebrates his musical achievements but also showcases his dedication to innovation, science and social responsibility. His multifaceted career serves as a powerful example of how creativity and entrepreneurship can intersect to drive meaningful change on a global scale.

(President’s Media Division)

In celebration of International Women’s Day 2025, the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre (SVCC), the cultural arm of the High Commission of India, Colombo, organized a series of events promoting women’s empowerment, well-being, and self-defence awareness.

The initiatives included a sports event at Wellawatte Hindu Ladies College, showcasing the Physical Training (PT) squad team and a self-defense program at St. Paul’s Milagiriya Girls’ School, training 300 students in personal safety. SVCC also collaborated with the University of Colombo’s Faculty of Indigenous Medicine for a session on ‘The Role of Nutrition for Women’s Health’, highlighting the importance of balanced nutrition.

Continuing its commitment to women’s empowerment, SVCC will host ‘Yoga for Women’s Empowerment’ in collaboration with the Brahma Kumaris Raja Yoga Centre on 8th March 2025, promoting mental and physical wellness.

The series of events are aligned with the Fit India Mission launched by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. Under the theme ‘Stronger Her, Healthier Future’, the series advocate promoting physical fitness, mental well-being, nutrition, and social inclusion through partnerships with various organizations. These initiatives continue to foster the vision of women-led development in India and beyond.