Under the guidance of Chief Incumbent of Nawa Polonnaru Gal Wiharaya Rev.

Kanumuldeniye Sri Dharmashoka Thero, the construction of replicas of all the statues of the Gal Viharaya, Polonnaruwa that started in 1982, has been completed by now. The opening of the Samadhi Buddha statue coincides with the 2600 Sambuddhatwa Jayanthi celebrations.

The Chief Incumbent, addressing the gathering at the ceremony, appreciated the participation of the President. The Thero noted that there was a time during which both the clergy and laymen could not travel without fear, and noted that the credit for eradicating such an atmosphere goes to the President. He also said that the emergence of such a leader who is committed to the progress of the Sambuddha Shasana and clergy is the fortunate of the nation.

Later, the President offered flowers to the statue and participated in religious observances. He also visited the Devala Mandira of the temple and received blessings.

The event was attended by the Chairman of the Sri Lanka Mahabodhi Society Rev. Banagala Upatissa Thero, Chief Incumbent of the Stockholm Buddhist Temple Rev. Kiridigalle Dhammaratana Thero, and members of the clergy.