The inaugural ceremony of the Peoples’ Forum organized by Sarvodaya took place at Hemali Reception Hall at Walgama Matara. Members and invitees were registered in at the entrance to the Reception Hall. The ceremony started with an introduction and welcome address by Mr. H.M. Nelson the District Organizer of Sarvoday. He was followed by Dr. Sunil Wijesiriwardena Lecturer at University of Fine Art at Horana. Deviating from the normal practice of lighting the traditional oil lamp all the participants were given a small cup made of clay with a candle mounted inside. Chief Guest using a lighted candle lighted the candle of Rev. Angunna Badulle Gnadassi Thero. As a mark of national unity the only Muslim who was at this ceremony lighted his candle by using the Reverend’s lighted candle. All the others got their candles lighted using the light from their neighbours. Once all the candles were lighted they carried the cup to a table and it was arranged in an orderly manner. This can be seen in the above picture. Ms.Lalitha Peiris the Coordinating Officer of Sarvodaya presented her oration where she explained about how the Peoples’ Forum should be formed. After the tea break Dr. Sunil Wijesiriwardena gave a lecture on the necessity and the objectives of having Peoples’ Forum at each Divisional Secretary areas. After lunch various issues were discussed where all those who were present expressed their opinions. This was followed by selection of the Peoples’ Forum.
