How Did Indian Envoy Celebrate Cultural Bonds with Sri Lanka?
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Synopsis
In a historic event, the Indian High Commissioner inaugurated a replica of King Ashoka's pillar and showcased sacred Buddha relics in Sri Lanka. This celebration underscores the enduring cultural ties and shared Buddhist heritage between India and Sri Lanka, enhancing diplomatic relations and spiritual connections.
Key Takeaways
- Inauguration of Ashoka Pillar Replica: Marks a significant cultural milestone.
- Exhibition of Kapilavastu Relics: Strengthens spiritual ties between India and Sri Lanka.
- Historical Connections: Buddhism serves as a vital link between the two nations.
- People-to-People Relations: Enhanced through shared cultural and spiritual heritage.
- Future Collaborations: Potential for further cultural exchanges and exhibitions.
Colombo, July 22 (NationPress) In a remarkable celebration of the cultural heritage shared by India and Sri Lanka, the Indian High Commissioner, Santosh Jha, inaugurated a replica of King Ashoka's Vaishali Pillar of Dhamma alongside a special exhibition of the sacred Kapilavastu Relics at the Raja Guru Sri Subuthi Maha Viharaya Temple on the island.
The Indian High Commission referred to this occasion as a representation of the profound historical, cultural, and spiritual bonds between India and Sri Lanka.
Held at the Raja Guru Sri Subuthi Maha Viharaya in Waskaduwa, a coastal town in Sri Lanka, this significant Buddhist temple is renowned for its preservation of sacred relics of Lord Buddha and his principal disciples, Sariputra and Maudgalyayana.
During the inauguration, Jha also collaborated with Most Ven. Waskaduwawe Mahindawansa Mahanayake Thero, the head of the Amarapura Sambuddha Sasanodaya Maha Nikaya, to unveil a special display of the sacred Kapilavastu Relics.
The Indian High Commission noted that Jha extended heartfelt wishes to Most Ven. Thero on his birthday and offered prayers for his longevity.
Buddhism has historically served as a vital link between the civilizations of India and Sri Lanka, dating back to when Ashoka dispatched his children, Arhat Mahinda and Theri Sangamitta, to share the teachings of Lord Buddha upon the request of King Devanampiya Tissa of Sri Lanka.
Earlier in April, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Sri Lanka, where he and Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake sought blessings at the Jaya Shri Mahabodhi Temple in Anuradhapura.
This temple holds exceptional spiritual and civilizational importance for both nations, housing a Bodhi tree believed to have originated from a sapling brought from India by Theri Sanghamitta, the daughter of Emperor Ashoka.
During his visit, PM Modi highlighted the enduring spiritual connections and announced that the Holy Relics of Lord Buddha, discovered in 1960 in Gujarat's Aravali region, would be sent to Sri Lanka for exhibition.
Emphasizing the strong people-to-people connection and shared Buddhist legacy, the revered relics of Lord Buddha from Kapilavastu, uncovered in 1970 in India, have been showcased in Sri Lanka twice before.
The first exhibition in 1978 attracted nearly 10 million visitors, while the second in 2012 was organized at the request of then-Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa to commemorate the 2600th anniversary of the Buddha's Enlightenment.
Additionally, the venerated relics from Waskaduwe Vihara were displayed in India in October 2015 to celebrate the 60th anniversary of Dr. Ambedkar embracing Buddhism along with 500,000 followers, drawing over 8 million visitors who paid their respects.
Point of View
It's essential to recognize the depth of connections between nations. The inauguration of the Ashoka pillar replica and the exhibition of sacred relics isn't merely a ceremonial event; it embodies the longstanding ties of friendship, spirituality, and shared heritage between India and Sri Lanka. This partnership deserves to be celebrated and nurtured, as it enriches the cultural landscape of both nations.
NationPress
22/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was inaugurated by the Indian High Commissioner in Sri Lanka?
The Indian High Commissioner inaugurated a replica of King Ashoka's Vaishali Pillar and showcased the sacred Kapilavastu Relics.
Where did the inauguration take place?
The event took place at the Raja Guru Sri Subuthi Maha Viharaya Temple in Waskaduwa, Sri Lanka.
Who joined the Indian High Commissioner during the inauguration?
Most Ven. Waskaduwawe Mahindawansa Mahanayake Thero, head of Amarapura Sambuddha Sasanodaya Maha Nikaya, joined him.
What is the significance of the exhibition of the Kapilavastu Relics?
The exhibition highlights the deep spiritual and cultural ties between India and Sri Lanka.
How many times have the Kapilavastu Relics been exhibited in Sri Lanka?
The Kapilavastu Relics have been exhibited in Sri Lanka twice before, in 1978 and 2012.
