The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Kathmandu celebrated 2560th Buddha Jayanthi Celebration programme on 23rd May 2016 at the Embassy premises with the participation of Maha Sanga, representatives of selected Buddhist Associations, Buddhists scholars, Sri Lankan community living in Nepal and Embassy staff.
Ambassador W.M. Senevirathna welcomed the gathering highlighting that Buddhism was the foundation on which Nepal-Lanka relations were fostered. Lord Buddha taught the path of compassion, harmony and happiness for everyone. The teaching of the Buddha, over 2500 years is applicable today. Head of Mission informed that simple Vesak day celebration programme conducted due to the flood situation in Sri Lanka. He appealed Sri Lanka expatriate community to support the Sri Lanka flood victims.
Ven. Seela Baddhara Maha Thero, Mani Mandap Vihar, Ven. Ashoka Thero, Jitvan Buddha Vihar in Nepal conducted Panchaseela and Gilanpasa Buddha puja respectively.
Special Dhamma talk on "Significance of Vesak" was delivered by Ven. Dr. Bhadant Rahul Bodhi Maha Thero who is a renowned and internationally recognized scholar. Ven. Thero presented paper at the Inaugural session of 2560th International Buddhist Conference held in Kathmandu. Ven. Thero explained to the gathering the importance of Vesak and said Sri Lanka is the oldest continually Buddhist country, Theravada Buddhism being the major religion in the island since its official introduction in the 2nd century BC by Arhath Mahinda, the son of the Emperor Ashoka of India during the reign of King Devanampiya- Tissa.
Ven. Thero further said that Monks from Sri Lanka have an important role in spreading both Theravada and Mahayana throughout South-east Asia.
Both the Embassy and the Official Residence were colourfully decorated with Buddhist flags and illuminated with Vesak lanternsand oil lamps by the staff of the Embassy and their family members in keeping with traditions of the festival.
Traditional refreshments were served to the gathering at the end of the programme.
Embassy of Sri Lanka Kathmandu
Nepal
25 May 2016
