Mahiyangana Raja Maha Viharaya chief incumbent Ven Urulawatte Dammarakkitha Thero said over 10,000 devotees are expected to observe Sil which will include around 2,000 shoolchildren. A Vesak lantern competition is also being organised where prizes worth Rs. 100,000, Rs. 75,000 and Rs. 50,000 will be offered to first, second and third place winners.

Ven. Urulawatte Dammarakkitha Thero said food and lodging will be provided to all devotees who observe sil at the temple.

Under the Buddhasasana and Religious Affairs Ministry, financial assistance will be provided to all temples in Mahiyangana.

The Mahiyangana Saya Wandana will be held on Poya Day at 6.00 p.m. with the lighting of thousands of bulbs.

President Sirisena, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, Buddhasasana and Religious Affair Minister Karu Jayasooriya, Badulla Secretary Nimal Abeysinghe and Mahiyangana Divisional Secretary Sunil Abeykoon are scheduled to participate.