By Zahrah Imtiaz

Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa yesterday (23) morning made an offering of a six-inch gold trident to the Kataragama Maha Devalaya.

At the 84,000 pahan poojawa in Kataragama-Feb 22, pic: twitter.com/RajapaksaNamal

Folklore states that King Dutugemunu too, made such an offering before he set out to war.

Thus, rumours are afloat that this might be an indication of the former Head of State continuing to harbour political ambitions.

Rajapaksa who visited Kataragama on Sunday (22) participated in the lighting of 84,000 lamps at an all night pirith ceremony with wife Shiranthi, sons; Namal and Yoshitha, nephew Shasheendra Rajapaksa, former minister Gamini Lokuge and Udaya Gammanpila.

It was observed that the usual provincial politicians from Hambantota and Moneragala Districts, who accompanied Rajapaksa on previous visits to Kataragama were notably absent this time around.

The former President, who came to the Devalaya accompanied by five other vehicles, found that once he had crossed the Kiriwehera Bridge to enter the premises through the back door, the gates were closed and the keys were not to be found.

Thereafter, Rajapaksa and crew had proceeded to the temple on foot. They spent the night at the Kiriwehera Rest House and left Kataragama yesterday (23) evening.

Gammanpila speaking to Ceylon Today said it was a religious ceremony organized by close friends of the former President and had no political bearing. He added that the Kiriwehera and Kataragama Devalayas were of great significance to the Rajapaksa family.

When asked whether there was any sign of Rajapaksa coming back to politics, he said the message sent by Rajapaksa to the Nugegoda rally on 18 February was a ‘green light’ in that direction.

“Though he has not stated in black and white that he will re-enter active politics, I feel that the message was a positive one to all those who want him back”, said Gammanpila.

Courtesy:Ceylon Today