Mahara Purana Viharaya murals at risk

A series of ancient murals belonging to Kandyan era in the shrine room of the Eheliyagoda Mahara Purana Viharaya, are currently deteriorating.

Although these paintings were previously restored to some extent by the Archaeology Department, paint layers of a majority of the murals peeling off at present. Kuruwiti Korale Judicial Sangha Nayake and Viharadhipathi Ven. Asgangule Wimalarathana Nayake Thera told the Daily News that these paintings depict several jathaka stories and many art lovers, as well as Buddhist devotees admire them.

He added that these 400-year-old paintings should be protected for future generations, without further delay.