Politics · Sri Lanka Bureau
State to sponsor cremation rites for Sri Lanka Ramangya Maha Nikaya deputy prelate
The Cabinet of Ministers has approved state patronage for the cremation ceremony of the late Deputy Prelate of the Sri Laka Ramangya Maha Nikaya, Most Venerable Keppetiyagoda Siriwimalabhidhana Thero, who passed away on October 18, 2026.
LSN Sri Lanka ·
The cremation ceremony for the venerable monk will take place on October 21, 2026, at the Gatambe Urban Council playground. Most Venerable Keppetiyagoda Siriwimalabhidhana Thero held the position of Anu Nayaka Thero, or deputy prelate, within the Sri Laka Ramangya Maha Nikaya, one of Sri Lanka's principal Buddhist monastic fraternities. The Cabinet's decision to provide state support for the funeral rites reflects recognition of the late thero's standing within the Buddhist sangha and his contributions to the religious community. The approval of state patronage is typically reserved for senior religious figures of significant national importance. Further details regarding the ceremony arrangements are expected to be announced by officials coordinating the event.