Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena here on Wednesday offered prayers at the temple of Lord Venkateswara accompanied by his wife Jayanthi Pushpa Kumari.
The modest President couple preferred passing through the Vaikuntam queue complex like any other commoner despite being entitled for a direct entry through the Mahadwaram (main entrance). The temple authorities extended them a warm reception on their arrival at the main temple complex and led them into the sanctum sanctorum where the President and his entourage attended the pre-dawn Suprabhata Seva ritual. TTD Executive Officer D. Sambasiva Rao along with his deputy K.S. Srinivasa raju presented him with the laddu prasadam and memento of the presiding deity.
Later, addressing mediapersons on behalf of President Sirisena (who stood by his side) outside the temple complex Eastern Province Governor Austin Fernando termed their four-day official visit as successful and thanked the government of India for its endearing hospitality. It was heartening to note that lot of agreements were signed and the discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Pranab Mukherjee were fruitful. The meetings with other Indian Ministers which were held in a cordial atmosphere were also successful. He appreciated TTD authorities for the arrangements during their stay.
