Kelaniya temple begins construction for centenary celebration landmark

The ceremonial laying of foundation stones took place on Saturday at the temple premises, with construction beginning on both the Centenary Sacred Area Garden and a new perimeter wall that will demarcate the sacred boundary of the ancient temple. The dual project represents a significant phase in the temple's expansion plans ahead of commemorating 100 years of the modern perahera tradition.

The ceremony proceeded under the spiritual guidance of the temple's Chief Prelate and senior monks, reflecting the sacred nature of the undertaking. The projects are designed to enhance the temple's facilities while preserving the sanctity of this important Buddhist site in the Colombo district.

The Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya, one of Sri Lanka's most venerated temples, has long been a focal point of religious and cultural activities. The centenary celebration of the Duruthu Maha Perahera—the temple's annual procession held during January—will mark a milestone in the institution's contemporary history.

The foundation-laying ceremony draws attention to ongoing efforts to develop religious and cultural infrastructure across Sri Lanka's Buddhist heritage sites, balancing modernization with traditional preservation.