Sri Lanka, April 9 -- The 59th Aluth Sahal Mangallaya or the National New Rice Festival commenced today (09) at the sacred Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

The grand cultural festival commenced with the blessings of the Maha Sangha saw farmers offering their first harvest with deep devotion in a ceremonial puja dedicated to Lord Buddha.

Speaking at the event, President Dissanayake emphasized that agriculture forms a major part of the nation's cultural heritage. He noted that the New Rice Festival is a pinnacle of this heritage, strengthening the country's identity and preserving its cultural traditions.

The President stressed the government's commitment to alleviating rural poverty, highlig...