Former Minister Dilum Amunugama recently shared a humorous yet concerning anecdote during a media briefing, revealing that a senior cabinet minister had unknowingly mistaken Ananda Thero of the Asgiri Pirivena for the highly esteemed Asgiri Maha Nayaka Thero.
According to Amunugama, the minister had been in regular communication with Ananda Thero for an extended period, believing he was engaging with the Maha Nayaka Thero. The misunderstanding persisted until the minister finally realized he had been speaking to the wrong Thero. In an attempt to rectify the situation, the minister awkwardly retrieved the fruit basket he had brought as a token of respect and subsequently presented it to the actual Maha Nayaka Thero during a follow-up visit.
Amunugama expressed both amusement and dismay at the incident, emphasizing the importance of familiarity with religious and cultural leaders, particularly for government officials in a country where Buddhist clergy hold significant influence.
“This incident raises questions about the awareness and preparedness of some officials when interacting with key figures in our society,” Amunugama remarked, adding that such blunders could have implications for the perception of the government’s competence in handling matters of cultural and religious significance.
The story has since sparked discussions online, with many finding humor in the minister’s predicament while others view it as a reflection of deeper systemic issues within the government.
