This year also the Katina Pooja was sponsored by the Ambassador and staff of the Sri Lanka Embassy in Kathmandu. Sri Lankans in Kathmandu also contributed to this meritorious event.
The Katina Pooja ceremony was initiated with the blessings of the Chief Prelate of the Malwatu Chapter of the Siyam Maha Nikaya, the Most Ven. Thibbatuwawe Sri Siddhartha Sumangala Mahanayaka Thero, with the guidance of the Trustee of the Sri Lanka Maha Vihara in Lumbini, Ven Dr. Gallehepitiye Pemarathana Thero, and under the close direction of the resident monk in charge, the Ven. Shastravedi Tissamaharamaye Pannasara Thero.
The religious programme commenced in the evening of 30 October with an Ashirwada Pahan Pooja and pirith chanting at the Maya Devi Temple where Prince Siddhartha was born. In the early morning of 31 October, the Katina Cheewara was taken in procession to Maya Devi Temple, and brought to the Sri Lanka Maha Vihara where it was handed over to the Maha Sangha as per the custom. The offering of Katina Cheewara was conducted after the midday alms-giving. Ven. Prof. Nepalaye Sankichcha Thero of the Lumbini Buddhist University delivered the Katinanisansa sermon.
The religious ceremony was held with the participation of Sri Lanka's Ambassador to Nepal Himalee Arunatilaka, SAARC Secretary General Esala Weerakoon, Inspector General of Armed Police Force of Nepal Shailendra Khanal, officers of the Sri Lanka Embassy, SAARC Secretariat and the Sri Lanka Dutugemunu Pilgrims Rest, Sri Lankans residing and working in Nepal and invitees.
