Sri Lanka President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has emphasized that Sri Lanka’s path to development must be built upon the foundation of its rich cultural and historical heritage.He made these remarks while attending the grand finale of the annual Esala Perahera festival at the historic Ruhunu Maha Kataragama Devalaya.

Addressing the gathering, the President noted that while mode societies often focus heavily on material wealth and physical advancement, such pursuits should not come at the cost of eroding essential social values and human compassion.“Many strive to accumulate material assets, but in doing so, we risk losing the humanism and social values that define us,” he said. “We must not disconnect from our historical roots. Any nation that has achieved true progress has done so by preserving and building upon its cultural legacy.”

He highlighted the significance of Sri Lanka’s Buddhist heritage, particularly the arrival of Arahat Mihindu and the transformative impact of the Dhamma on the island’s social and cultural fabric. “Our society was shaped by the principles of compassion, loving-kindness, and the Four Noble Truths. These values must guide our development jou ey.”

President Dissanayake called for a national dialogue on development that respects and integrates Sri Lanka’s historical identity.