The Basnayake Nilame of the Ruhunu Maha Kataragama Devalaya has reportedly decided to auction around 70 per cent of the gold items that are currently stored in the Devalaya’s safes and donate the proceeds to the ‘Rebuilding Sri Lanka’ Fund.
Officials have told the media that the decision excludes gold items bearing images of deities. The auction is expected to be conducted under the supervision of the National Gem and Jewellery Authority (NGJA) to ensure transparency and proper valuation.
The Devalaya’s Basnayake Nilame Thilina Madusanka has also noted that gold donated by devotees in recent years will be handed over to the government through a transparent process.
Clarifying reports circulating on social media, Basnayake Nilame Madusanka has reportedly stated that advice had been sought from the Commissioner General of Buddhist Affairs and stressed that claims suggesting attempts to use 2,000-year-old gold were false.
He has further noted that the initiative was aimed at supporting national rebuilding efforts while safeguarding religious and historical heritage.
The ‘Rebuilding Sri Lanka’ Fund that was set up following Cyclone Ditwah to raise funds to rebuild the devastated areas stronger and better, continues to receive funds from all sectors in the country, including from individuals.
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