March 16, Colombo (LNW): The government is exploring the possibility of introducing an alternative set of auspicious timings for the upcoming Sinhala New Year rituals if astrologers fail to arrive at a common agreement, Deputy Minister of Buddhist Affairs Gamagedara Dissanayake said yesterday.
Speaking to the media, the Deputy Minister explained that the Ministry of Buddhist Affairs has already consulted senior members of the Buddhist clergy, including the Mahanayake Theras and representatives of the Buddha Sasana Council, regarding the ongoing dispute.
According to him, the leading prelates expressed the view that the final Neketh Seettuwa — the traditional schedule of auspicious times for New Year observances — should be one that is broadly acceptable to all parties.
Dissanayake further noted that a fresh round of discussions is scheduled to take place today between the Minister of Buddhist Affairs and several groups of astrologers, many of whom have expressed differing opinions on the timings previously proposed.
He said the government remains hopeful that a unified decision can be reached through dialogue. However, if the consultations fail to produce a consensus, authorities are prepared to consider other options to ensure the public receives clear guidance ahead of the New Year celebrations.
“We expect to arrive at an agreement with the astrologers,” he said, adding that a revised and widely acceptable Neketh Seettuwa is expected to be announced within the next few days.