Image by Wikimedia Commons
A heritage institution stepped forward in support of national recovery
The Ruhunu Maha Kataragama Devalaya announced plans to release a portion of its gold holdings through a public auction to support the government’s Rebuilding Sri Lanka Fund. According to the Basnayake Nilame, approximately 70 per cent of gold items kept in temple vaults—excluding sacred representations of deities—were selected for this initiative.
The process was set to take place under the oversight of the National Gem and Jewellery Authority, ensuring accountability and openness. Temple authorities confirmed that the gold consisted solely of offerings made by devotees in recent years, firmly rejecting speculation that ancient or historically significant artefacts would be involved. Guidance had also been obtained from the Commissioner General of Buddhist Affairs before the decision was finalised.
The region around Kataragama remains a draw for visitors, with travellers often exploring places to visit near Kataragama during pilgrimages. Nearby accommodation options, such as Mandara Rosen Yala Kataragama, continued to be popular among visitors to the area.
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