September 22, Colombo (LNW): Thilina Madhusanka Abeyratne, the current Basnayake Nilame of the Devinuwara Maha Vishnu Devalaya, has been appointed as the Acting Basnayake Nilame of the revered Ruhunu Maha Kataragama Devalaya.
The appointment was made by the Commissioner of Buddhist Affairs, following the conclusion of Dishan Gunasekara’s official term on 21 September.
Gunasekara, the 12th individual to hold the position, formally steps down today. Having previously declared his intention not to seek reappointment, his exit paves the way for the upcoming election to select a permanent successor.
The Department of Buddhist Affairs confirmed that the next steps in the appointment process will be carried out in accordance with the relevant legal framework, with a final decision expected within three months.
