The Aluth Sahal Mangalya which symbolizes offering the maiden rice gathered from the field to the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi is an important cultural event of the farmer community.
The farmers provide rice to the country without expecting any luxury in return. Therefore it is the responsibility of every government to acknowledge their service. The president pointed out that some of the previous governments did not look into the needs of farmers adequately. However a guaranteed price of 50 rupees has been given for a kilo of paddy under the good governance.
The Aluth Sahal Mangalya was jointly organized by the Departments of Farmer Community Services and Agriculture under the guidance of Chief Incumbent of Atamasthana Venerable Pallegama Siri Nivasa Thero. Offering of Bee Honey which is also a traditional custom was carried out by Uruwarige Wanniyele-aththo.
The Ghee Pooja was conducted by the Nilame of Maha Saman Devala in Ratnapura. The president also handed over traditional paddy seeds to the farmers as a measure to prevent the kidney disease.
Ministers Duminda Dissanayake and P.Harrison were also present.