The Sri Dalada Maligawa is facing unprecedented financial strain, with its annual operational costs rising to around Rs. 1.5 billion, Chief Lay Custodian Diyawadana Nilame Pradeep Nilanga Dela revealed yesterday.
Speaking at a public event in Pallekele, he said the temple now needs to generate nearly Rs. 5 million a day to sustain its traditional religious rituals and maintain the historic complex, describing the responsibility as a major challenge this year.
Dela highlighted how the temple’s financial landscape has changed over the past two decades, noting that in 2005 its annual income was only about Rs. 80 million, including Rs. 35 million from interest earnings, compared to the current funding requirement of Rs. 1.5 billion.
He explained that expenses include daily Thevava ceremonies, preservation of the centuries-old structures, staff salaries, and the care of temple elephants, all of which place a heavy burden on finances.
With tourism, donations, and interest income remaining the main revenue sources, the Diyawadana Nilame stressed the urgent need for sustainable funding mechanisms to preserve the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic while continuing its long-standing traditions in a rapidly changing economic environment.
