The Chairperson of the Ministry of Defence Seva Vanitha Unit, Mrs. Ioma Rajapaksa official handed over the first prize, a house worth Rs 17 million to the winner of 'Ranaviru Real Star -Mission 2', Lance Corporal Ayomi Perera of the Sri Lanka Army at a ceremony held at Battaramulla today (15th July).

Mrs. Ioma Rajapaksa was warmly welcomed by Lance Corporal Ayomi Perera and her family before she was accompanied to the new house in a colorful perahera.

Amidst chanting of pirith by the Maha Sangha, the house was ceremonially declared open by Mrs Ioma Rajapaksa, followed by lighting of the traditional oil lamp by Mrs. Ioma Rajapaksa and other distinguished guests.

The deed of the house was also formally handed over to the winner by Mrs. Ioma Rajapaksa during the ceremony.

Lance Corporal Ayomi Perera had shown exceptional skills in displaying her vocal talents throughout the contest and finally won the trophy in the face of stiff competition from the other four finalists thereby, making history as the 'Ranaviru Real Star - Mission 2'.

The 'Ranaviru Real Star' realty programme is the brainchild of Secretary Defence which aims at bringing out the hidden talents of war heroes of the three forces. The winners are lavishly awarded with expensive gifts. The popularity of this unique concept of the Secretary Defence was very much evident by the huge influx of SMSs which continued to pour in throughout the duration of the series. The Grand Finale of 'Ranaviru Real Star Mission 2' was held on 06th July, where His Excellency, the President Mahinda Rajapaksa graced the occasion as the chief guest.

The Vice President of Defence Ministry's Seva Vanitha Unit Mrs. Indu Rathnayake, Commander of the Army, Commander of the Navy, Commander of the Air Force, Chairpersons of Army, Navy and Air Force Seva Vanitha Units, Director General of Media Center for National Security, renowned artists Edward Jayakody, Samantha Perera and many other distinguished guests were present at the occasion. (Courtesy : MoD)