Significant changes are taking place at the Peacock Mansion in Rajagiriya, before its new occupant, former president Mahinda Rajapaksa is to move in. These changes were said to be carried out at the recommendation of an Indian astrologer.

The swimming pool of the mansion was filled up with sand, apparently because the astrologer said that it was inauspicious to have water to the western direction of the house. The direction of the main door was also changed

Rajapaksa was known to be a firm believer of astrology. Sumanadasa Abeygunewardena, effectively his ‘Royal Astrologer’ enjoyed a number of benefits and extensive media coverage on state media during Rajapaksa’s rule. It was said that Abeygunawardena’s prediction of victory was the only reason for calling an early presidential election last November.

However, after Rajapaksa’s defeat on January 8, Abeygunawardena’s reputation also slumped. In an attempt to salvage some reputation, he once told AFP that even Nostradamus got certain things wrong. Later he claimed that he knew President Maithripala Sirisena will emerge victorious in the presidential election from the outset.

Despite these debacles of his former astrologer, former president Mahinda Rajapaksa has apparently not lost his belief in astrology.

Rajapaksa was ‘gifted’ the mansion by businessman A.S.P. Liyanage. He told media a few days back that it had been a lucky place for him. However, when a friend asked for a help, he decided to help out, he said.

He also said some people had inspected the house a few days back but could not confirm if they were astrologers.