Arrival of Sacred Relics underscores robust Indo- Lanka ties

Sandasen MARASINGHE

External Affairs Minister Professor G L Peiris yesterday stated that the Kapilavasthu Relics that were brought to Sri Lanka are sign that the long maintained robust and sound relationship between the two great nations, India and Sri Lanka would go forth from strength to strength in the years to come.

He made this observation at the inaugural session of the symposium Relic Worship: History, Archeology and Religion symposium held at the Lakshman Kadiragamar Institute for International Relations and Strategic Studies. The event was organized by the Center for Contemporary Indian Studies (CCIS) and Pali and Buddhist Studies Unit of the Colombo University.

Professor Peiris further said the Exposition of the Sacred Kapilavasthu Relics will be held in seven provinces in the country.The Sacred Relics were brought to the country at the request of President Mahinda Rajapaksa.

He added that the two governments and the people of the two countries have close relationship. He also said that the destiny of the two countries are inexplicably intertwined. The dominant element is the guidance of the Buddha Dhamma.

The greatest son of India, The Buddha does not belong exclusively to India. He visited this Island on three occasions. He visited Mahiyangana, Nagadeepa and Kelaniya.

He also said the presence of the Sarvanna Dhathu, The Buddha’ relics denotes the presence of the living Buddha. The relics not only has a social and cultural dimension but also political dimension. He added that where the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy is considered it was believed the person who can demonstrate physical possession of the Relics has the legitimate, moral and legal claim to govern the country.

Prof. Peiris also stated the Sacred Bo sapling was brought to Sri Lanka by the daughter of Emperor Ashoka Therani Sangamitta.The sacred Pathra Dhathu used by Lord Buddha also was brought to Sri Lanka. He added these were some matters that caused the close relationship between the two countries.

CCIS Director Dr Sandagomi Coperahewa, External Affairs Minister Prof G. L. Peiris, Culture, Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation Minister of India Ms Kumari Selja and LKIIRSS Director Asanga Abeygoonasekera also spoke on the occasion.

High Commissioner of India in Sri Lanka Ashok K. Kantha, Prof Anura Manathunga, Prof Asanga Thilakaratne, Prof K. N. O. Dharmadasa were also present.