Colombo, August 19 (newsin.asia): The 75th Independence Day of India was celebrated on 15 August at the Param Dhamma Chaitya Pirivena, Ratmalana, with great fervor. Ven. Dr. Mapalagama Wipulasara Maha Thera and the Mahasangha led these celebrations. The flag of India was hoisted by Ven. Dr. Wipulasara Maha Thera on the occasion. A special ‘Ashirvad Puja’ to invoke the blessings of Lord Buddha for the well-being of people of India and Sri Lanka was also conducted.
In his address, Ven. Dr. Mapalagama Wipulasara Maha Thera underlined that Buddhism has been a strong bond that reinforces spiritual ties between India and Sri Lanka. He recalled the deep Buddhist linkages between the two countries which date back to the time of Lord Buddha. He noted that close ties continued throughout history, and in modern times, it has metamorphosed into a multi-dimensional relationship across different spheres. He also expressed the hope that India -Sri Lanka ties will continue to flourish.
Indian monks studying at the Pirivena delivered speeches on India’s freedom struggle and expressed their resolve to work for stronger connections between India and Sri Lanka. The Director, Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre (SVCC) offered Mahadana to the Venerable Mahasangha and lay devotees.
High Commissioner Gopal Baglay expressed his gratitude to Ven. Dr. Wimalasara Thero telephonically for marking the 75 th. anniversary of India’s independence at the Pirivena.
It may be recalled that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a USD 15 million grant for the promotion of Buddhist ties between India and Sri Lanka at the Virtual Bilateral Summit with Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa in September 2020. Modalities of the grant are being finalized by the two Governments, an Indian High Commission release said.
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