OMLANKA
President Maithripala Sirisena visited the Nishantha Sculpture Centre at Ethumalpitiya in Polanaruwa and viewed an array of carvings including those of Lord Buddha and Lord Ganesa. He also had a chat with a group of tourists who were among the clientele at the centre.
Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe has observed that Maha Siva Rathri would enable all communities to renew ties in a cultural diversity. His message said: "On this night of reverence, a lamp aimed at dispelling the darkness of ignorance and heralding in wisdom, is lit. It is believed that a meaningful Maha Siva Rathri Day brings spiritual enlightenment.
Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex, and Countess of Wessex met with inspirational volunteers from Sri Lanka who have been recognised as Queen's Young Leaders under the Commonwealth Points of Light award, the Queen's Young Leaders Programme and the Commonwealth Young Person of the Year Award. The young leaders briefed the Royal Couple of their contribution to make a difference in their communities.
Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex, and the Countess of Wessex paid their respects at the Temple of the Tooth during their visit to Kandy on January 1. They paid their respects in the inner sanctum of the Temple, where they viewed the casket containing the sacred tooth relic and received blessings.
Royal couple met with students from Trinity College and the Girls' High School Kandy. The Earl and Countess spent time with students from Trinity College Kandy and the Girls' High School and heard from them about their aspirations for the future and why they believed English language education would equip them for the challenges of working in an increasingly connected world. They also enjoyed lunch with student representatives and members of local Guides and Scouts groups.
