Archaeologist Prof. Gamini Ranasinghe, Director General of the Central Cultural Fund gifted a replica of the world famous Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva statue found at Veheragala to the Hon. Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa at Temple Trees on 7th of October.

The Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva statue found at Veheragala dates back to the 7th and 8th centuries AD. Prof. Gamini Ranasinghe pointed out that this statue is world famous for its excellent artistic features.

This replica was created by the artists of the Bataleeya National Replica School, which is functioning under the Central Cultural Fund.

Gamini Senarath, Secretary to the Prime Minister, Prof. Kapila Gunawardena, Secretary to the Ministry of Buddhasasana Religious and Cultural Affairs, Mr. Ganesh Dharmawardena Attorney-at-Law of Public Trustee and officials of the Central Cultural Fund were present at this occasion.

Mr. Lalith Udesha Madhuhanu, Media Director of Central Cultural Fund presented a series of books on frescoes, architecture and sculptures, including the Shiva Murthy book to the Hon. Prime Minister.