In parallel with the upcoming 42nd National Milad-un-Nabi celebrations—to be held under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake—the Periyamulla Grand Mosque (Negombo Grand Mosque) hosted a heartwarming and rare community event titled “Welcome to Our Mosque.”
Held on the morning of August 24, 2026, the special program was designed to showcase Islam’s core values of compassion, mercy, love, and brotherhood to the wider society. By opening the doors of the mosque to the general public regardless of religious, ethnic, or social boundaries, the initiative aimed to break down communal barriers and unite hearts.
The grand inauguration ceremony, held at 9:30 AM, drew a diverse group of prominent political, religious, and social leaders. Among the distinguished guests were Minister of Science and Technology Prof. Krishantha Abesena, Deputy Speaker Dr. Rizvie Salie, Deputy Minister of Religious and Cultural Affairs Muneer Mulaffer, Deputy Minister of Sports Sugath Tilakaratne, Negombo Mayor Chamara Fernando, Deputy Mayor Faseer Mohamed, and Negombo Divisional Secretary Rasika Mallawarachchi.
A particularly touching highlight of the event was the special participation of local Catholic priests and nuns. Their presence symbolized mutual respect, harmony, and the strong bonds of coexistence shared across religious lines in the area.
During the brief addresses, speakers emphasized the vital importance of religious harmony, peace, brotherhood, and reconciliation. The mosque’s organizing committee guided visitors through the premises, offering deep insights into Islamic practices, cultural values, and rituals conducted within a mosque, thereby fostering a clearer understanding of the faith.
Adding a unique touch to the cultural exchange, the organizers distributed Sinhala-translated copies of the Holy Quran and other Islamic religious texts as keepsakes. In addition, youth volunteers from the mosque wrote guests’ names in Arabic calligraphy as personalized mementos. The event concluded with a warm refreshments reception for all attendees.
The “Welcome to Our Mosque” program successfully reinforced unity, goodwill, and brotherhood among the multi-ethnic and multi-religious communities of Negombo—often celebrated as a vibrant “city of rainbows.” It stands as a shining example for Sri Lankan society, paving the way for a peaceful and harmonious future grounded in universal human bonds.
— Report by Thushara Rohan Fernando
