COLOMBO, Feb 16: Anura Kumara Dissanayake on Sunday extended greetings to the people on the occasion of Mahashivratri, saying that such religious observances promote harmony, compassion and unity in society.
In a message, the President said the sacred festival of Maha Shivratri, devoutly observed by Hindus across the world, symbolises the dispelling of ignorance and the awakening of wisdom.
Describing the festival as an “auspicious occasion,” he noted that Hindu devotees offer prayers to Lord Shiva and commemorate the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, as well as the celestial Tandava dance performed by Lord Shiva. The festival, he said, represents the triumph over the “darkness of ignorance” in both the world and human life.
Dissanayake emphasised that religious and cultural traditions play a vital role in building a disciplined and compassionate society that respects all human relationships.
“The sacred rituals of Maha Shivratri, which remove ego and awaken spiritual consciousness, encourage us to live by the noble values of sincerity, generosity and forgiveness,” he said.
He called upon people to come together in unity and move forward along a shared path of progress and understanding. The President also expressed hope that the aspirations of Hindus in Sri Lanka and across the globe would be fulfilled.
According to the 2024–25 population census, Hindus constitute the second-largest religious community in Sri Lanka, accounting for over 12 per cent of the total population. (Agerncies)
