Swadeshi illuminates Keragala Raja Maha Viharaya
Swadeshi Industrial Works PLC, the market leader in Sri Lanka for herbal personal care products, sponsored the ‘Aloka Poojawa’ of the historic Keragala Raja Maha Viharaya recently under the theme ‘Swadeshi Khomba Aloka Puja Sathkaraya’ a concept of Swadeshi Chairperson Amari Wijewardene.
Situated in the Gampaha district, the Keragala Raja Maha Viharaya was built in the 13th century in the reign of King Vijayabahu during Dambadeniya Kingdom. The ‘Padmawathi Piriwena’ was established in the Keragala Raja Maha Viharaya in the reign of King Parakramabahu VI in the 15th century.
In her special message 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 that 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.
In 2013 the ‘Sri Dalada Maligawa’ of historic Dambadeni Raja Maha Viharaya and the ancient murals were renovated by Swadeshi Chairperson Amari Wijewardene to bring back its past glory.
Amari Wijewardene is the great granddaughter of Helena Wijewardene Lamatheni, who initiated renovations of the Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya in 1927. Swadeshi also supports the Aloka Poojas of Kataragama Kiri Wehera, Ruhunu Kataragama Maha Devalaya, Sabaragamu Maha Saman Devalaya, Devundara Sri Vishnu Devalaya, Redigama Ridi Viharaya and Dambadeniya Raja Maha Viharaya.
The pioneer and market leader in the herbal personal care category in Sri Lanka, Swadeshi Industrial Works PLC, was incorporated in 1941. Among the pioneer brands of Swadeshi are Khomba Herbal, Khomba Baby, Rani Sandalwood, Rani Rose, Apsara, Perlwite, Lak Bar, Lady, Black Eagle (Perfume and Aftershave), Swadeshi shower gel range and the one and only kids range ‘Little Princess’.