A longstanding aspiration of Sri Lankan Buddhists, led by the Most Venerable Dr. Waskaduwe Mahindawansa Maha Nayaka Thero, head of the Amarapura Sambuddha Sasanodaya Maha Nikaya, culminated today in a significant event. Accompanied by a retinue of monks and supporters, the Most Venerable made a pilgrimage to Dharamsala to offer relics of the Buddha to His Holiness the Dalai Lama.
Following the passing of the Buddha and the cremation of his remains, fragments of bones and teeth were distributed among eight kingdoms, where stupas were erected over them. Notably, relics were discovered at Piprahwa, believed to be associated with Kapilavastu, and gifted to the erudite Sri Lankan monk, Most Venerable Waskaduwe Sri Subhuthi Mahanayake Thera, in 1898.
The delegation, arriving at Kangra airport this morning, proceeded to His Holiness’s residence amidst a heartfelt reception by Tibetan communities. Monks from Namgyal Monastery orchestrated a ceremonial welcome, paving the path with flower petals and adorning the journey with traditional rituals.
In a poignant moment of exchange, His Holiness and the Most Venerable engaged in dialogue, emphasizing the universal significance of compassion and peace—a cornerstone of Buddhist teachings. Reflecting on the enduring relevance of the Buddha’s message in contemporary society, His Holiness underscored the convergence between Buddhist principles and scientific inquiry, advocating for the promotion of secular ethics rooted in compassion.
Expressing mutual reverence and appreciation, His Holiness reciprocated the gesture by offering statues of the Buddha and Dharmachakra to the Most Venerable and his delegation, symbolizing the interconnectedness of Buddhist traditions across borders.
The occasion was marked by a spirit of reverence and solidarity, capturing a historic moment of cultural exchange and spiritual resonance between Sri Lankan and Tibetan Buddhist communities.
Photographs commemorating this momentous event serve as a testament to the enduring bonds of compassion and mutual respect shared among diverse Buddhist traditions.
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