UNIVERSITY BLESSING EVENT AT DEHIWALA MUHIYADEEN GRAND JUMMAH MASJID

In celebration of its 44th anniversary on October 11, General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University (KDU) hosted a special blessing event on October 23, 2024, at the Dehiwala

Muhiyadeen Grand Jummah Masjid. This distinguished mosque, located on Mosque Road in Dehiwala-Mount Lavinia, served as a spiritual venue for KDU’s leadership, faculty, and students, who gathered to seek blessings for the university’s ongoing success and prosperity.The event commenced at 14.45 hrs, adhering to a structured agenda that provided participants with a holistic experience of both spirituality and community. The schedule included a welcoming session, a guided mosque tour, the call to Asr prayer (Azan), and the subsequent congregational prayer. Following the prayers, a recitation of the Quran enriched the atmosphere, encapsulating the essence of unity and reverence.

The Vice Chancellor, Rear Admiral HGU Dammika Kumara, VSV, USP, psc, MMaritimePol, BSc (DS), along with the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Defence and Administration), Major General CA Wickramasinghe USP USACGSC, were present at the event. Their participation emphasized the importance of spiritual guidance and community connection in KDU’s journey of fostering excellence and resilience in higher education. The event not only underscored the university’s commitment to holistic development but also celebrated the profound role of religious institutions like the Dehiwala Muhiyadeen Grand Jummah Masjid in fostering unity and peace within the community.

About Dehiwala Muhiyadeen Grand Jummah Masjid

The Dehiwala Muhiyadeen Grand Jummah Masjid, known for its peaceful ambiance and strong community presence, holds a special place in the hearts of local worshippers and visitors alike. Rated highly for its cleanliness and welcoming environment, the mosque accommodates a large congregation with amenities including air-conditioning and carpeted floors on the ground level, a separate prayer room for women, and a dedicated madrasah for children’s religious education. Notably, the mosque also offers iftar meals to the community during the holy month of Ramadan, drawing individuals from various walks of life.

Nearby Amenities and Community Services

Located within a vibrant neighborhood, the mosque is surrounded by various local businesses and services that contribute to the area’s accessibility and convenience. Some nearby establishments include Shadow Cabs, Magic House for functions, and Chembase-School of Chemistry. The mosque itself is just a kilometer away from the Dehiwala Zoological Garden, a popular attraction for families and tourists, making it an easily accessible site for both locals and visitors.

Reflection on KDU’s Engagement with Community Values

The 44th-anniversary blessing ceremony at the mosque symbolizes KDU’s commitment to values that go beyond academic and professional achievement. It serves as a reminder of the university’s dedication to the holistic development of its students and staff, ensuring that they remain grounded in cultural and religious values.