President Maithripala Sirisena paid his final respects today, February 04, to the Venerable Professor Bellanwila Wimalarathana Thera, a member of the clergy who was renowned for his compassion and dedication to social justice.

The final rites are to be observed under full state honours.

Devotees flocked in their thousands to the Bellanwila Raja Maha Viharaya today (Feb 4) to pay their final respects to the Venerable Professor Bellanwila Wimalarathana Thera.

Noted for his meaningful sermons in the dhamma, the most venerable thera was aged 77 at the time of his passing under tragic circumstances.

Venerable Professor Bellanwila Wimalarathana Thera was a pioneer in establishing the National Sangha Council and fearlessly spoke out in the face of issues facing the Sasana and the country.

The venerable thera was also a noted academic in the fields of languages, arts and literature and served as Chancellor of the Sri Jayewardenepura University.

The final rites will be observed at the grounds of the Sri Jayewardenepura University on the evening of February 8.

Venerable Professor Bellanwila Wimalarathana Thera May you attain the Supreme Bliss of Nirvana!