The Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Mumbai in collaboration with the K J Somaiya Institute of Dharma Studies at Somaiya Vidyavihar University organized a grand celebration for Poson Poya Day. The celebrations took place at the Nalanda Auditorium of the Somaiya University campus. The event welcomed 250 invitees, including diplomats, faculty, and students and featured a rich tapestry of speeches, sights, and sounds that celebrated the philosophical and cultural diversity and artistic heritage shared between Sri Lanka and India.
The festivities commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the oil lamp. This was followed by a solemn campus prayer from Somaiya Vidyavihar, creating a respectful and contemplative atmosphere.
Ven. Ananda Maha Thero, along with three Buddhist monks from Maha Mahinda Buddha Vihara in Ulhasnagar, Maharashtra, led the gathering in sacred religious chanting. During his sermon, the Chief Monk praised the grandeur of the event stating that in his 57 years in India, this was the most magnificent celebration of a Sri Lankan Buddhist event he had ever witnessed.
Chancellor of the Somaiya Vidyavihar Samir Somaiya welcomed the attendees and expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Consul General of Sri Lanka in Mumbai for organizing such a culturally significant event. Mr. Somaiya highlighted that the celebration would offer a unique and valuable insight into Sri Lankan Buddhist culture and traditions, enriching both students' and faculty's understanding of diverse practices. He emphasized that this event aligns perfectly with Somaiya Vidyavihar's mission to foster knowledge and cultural exchange, thereby reinforcing the university's commitment to promoting global awareness and mutual respect.
Following the Chancellor's remarks, Consul General of Sri Lanka in Mumbai Dr. Valsan Vethody addressed the audience. He provided an insightful narrative on the introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka, detailing on how Buddha Dhamma was brought to the island by Arahat Mahinda Thero, the son of Emperor Ashoka, during the reign of King Devanampiyatissa in the 3rd century BCE. Dr. Vethody explained the significance of Poson Poya Day, which commemorates this pivotal moment in Sri Lankan history, marking the beginning of Buddhism’s profound influence on the country’s culture and heritage. He also extended his heartfelt gratitude to Somaiya Vidyavihar for their wholehearted support and collaboration in hosting the event, noting on how their partnership had made this grand celebration possible. Dr. Vethody emphasized the importance of such events in fostering cultural understanding and strengthening the bonds between India and Sri Lanka.
As a gesture of appreciation, Consul General Dr. Valsan Vethody presented a mural to the University, which was accepted by Mr. Samir Somaiya. The mural depicted the historic moment when Arahat Mahinda Thero arrived in Sri Lanka to deliver the Buddha’s teachings to King Devanampiyatissa.
Head Associate Professor of the Department of Ancient Indian History, Culture, and Archaeology at St. Xavier's College (Autonomous), Mumbai Dr. Anita Kothare delivered the keynote address, focusing on the historical and cultural ties between India and Sri Lanka. She eloquently spoke about the profound influence of Buddhism on both countries, emphasizing on how the shared spiritual heritage has shaped their cultures and histories.
In a symbolic gesture celebrating this rich heritage, Dr. Valsan Vethody and Mr. Samir Somaiya jointly unveiled a Coffee Table Book titled "Buddhism in Sri Lanka," crafted by the Diplomatist Magazine. This well illustrated book captures the essence and depth of Buddhist culture in Sri Lanka, from its historical roots to its contemporary practices. As a memento of the event, copies of the book were distributed to the participants.
The cultural segment of the Poson Poya Day celebration began with a Bhakthi Geetha performed by consulate staff, Sri Lankan community and members of the Sri Lankan Navy who are currently undergoing training in Mumbai. This devotional rendition added a spiritual dimension to the event, reflecting the deep religious significance of Poson Poya.
Adding to the cultural diversity, the Maya Somaiya School of Music and Performing Arts delivered an enchanting musical performance that seamlessly blended classical and contemporary elements.
Rasika Borkar, a finalist on The Voice India, and Krutika Borkar, a celebrated Bollywood playback singer mesmerized the audience with devotional Buddhist songs in regional languages.
The highlight of the evening was the traditional dance performances by professionals from the Rivega Dance Studio in Colombo, facilitated by the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau. Their graceful movements and colourful costumes brought the audience closer to the heart of Sri Lankan culture.
The event came to an end with the vote of thanks delivered by Consul (Commercial) of the Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Mumbai Shirani Ariyarathne.
As a token of remembrance, each participant received a portrait depicting the historic mural of the arrival of Buddhism in Sri Lanka.
Consulate General of Sri Lanka
Mumbai
05 July 2024
