The Swadeshi Industrial Works PLC, the market leader in Sri Lanka for herbal personal care products, has sponsored the “Aloka Poojawa” of the historic Keragala Raja Maha Viharaya recently under the theme; “Swadeshi Khomba Aloka Puja Sathkaraya” a concept of Swadeshi Chairperson Ms. Amari Wijewardene.
Situated in the Gampaha district, the Keragala Raja Maha Viharaya was built in the 13th century in the reign of King Vijayabahu during Dambadeniya Kingdom. The “Padmawathi Piriwena” was established in the Keragala Raja Maha Viharaya in the reign of King Parakramabahu VI in the 15th century.
Swadeshi Chairperson Ms. Amari Wijewardene said that, Swadeshi being a Sri Lankan owned company, considers safeguarding the culture and traditional heritage of Sri Lanka by supporting such activities as this annual Aloka Pooja, a duty and also a debt the company owe towards mother Lanka.
She further observed, Swadeshi illuminates places of worship in the country for the benefit and ease of all worshippers and also with the intention of educating younger generation on the importance of safeguarding the country’s culture and heritage.
In 2013 the ‘Sri Dalada Maligawa’ of historic Dambadeni Raja Maha Viharaya and the ancient murals were renovated by Swadeshi Chairperson Ms. Amari Wijewardene to bring back its past glory.
Ms. Amari Wijewardene is the great granddaughter of Helena Wijewardene Lamatheni, who initiated renovations of the Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya in 1927.
Swadeshi also supports the Aloka Poojas of Kataragama Kiri Wehera, Ruhunu Kataragama Maha Devalaya, Sabaragamu Maha Saman Devalaya, Devundara Sri Vishnu Devalaya, Redigama Ridi Viharaya and Dambadeniya Raja Maha Viharaya.
The pioneer and market leader in the herbal personal care category in Sri Lanka, The Swadeshi Industrial Works PLC, was incorporated in 1941. Among the pioneer brands of Swadeshi are Khomba Herbal, Khomba Deo, Khomba Baby, Rani Sandalwood, Rani Rose, Apsara, Perlwite, Lak Bar, Lady, Black Eagle (Perfume & After Shave), Swadeshi shower gel range and the one and only kids range “Little Princess”.
The company also manufactures and markets the top herbal soap brand Khomba Herbal and heritage beauty soap brand Rani Sandalwood.