The ceremony to enshrine the Venerable Sacred Relics of the Buddha at the world's first and only 'Pali and Sanskrit Cultural Exchange Centre' was held on the morning of November 1st at the Centre located in Devamitta Pedesa, Heiyanthuduwa. The proceedings began at 6:00 AM yesterday (November 1st) with a majestic procession carrying the Sacred …
The ceremony to enshrine the Venerable Sacred Relics of the Buddha at the world’s first and only ‘Pali and Sanskrit Cultural Exchange Centre’ was held on the morning of November 1st at the Centre located in Devamitta Pedesa, Heiyanthuduwa. The proceedings began at 6:00 AM yesterday (November 1st) with a majestic procession carrying the Sacred Buddha Relics, which commenced its journey from Jayanthi Mawatha, Heiyanthuduwa, to the Cultural Exchange Centre. The procession featured vibrant cultural elements, including Ves dancers, traditional drumming (Hevisi), and cracking of whips (Kasa). The Sacred Relics, brought from India to Sri Lanka for enshrinement at the Pali and Sanskrit Cultural Exchange Centre, were carried in the procession by the internationally renowned dignitary, His Eminence the 102nd Ling Rinpoche. He was accompanied by the Chief Prelate of the Sri Sambuddha Sasanodaya Sangha Council, Most Ven. Dr. Waskaduwe Mahindawansa Maha Nayake Thero. Following the procession, His Eminence the Ling Rinpoche formally handed over the Sacred Relics to the Chairman of the Pali and Sanskrit Cultural Exchange Centre, Dr. Damenda Porage. Subsequently, the Relics, contained in a golden casket, were reverently enshrined in the newly constructed Relic Chamber (Dathu Mandiraya) by His Eminence the Ling Rinpoche. The Most Ven. Dr. Waskaduwe Mahindawansa Nayaka Mahanayake Thero also participated in this auspicious occasion. The historic ceremony concluded with solemn religious observances and tributes being paid to the Venerable Sacred Relics, according to both the Pali (Theravada) and Sanskrit (Mahayana/Vajrayana) traditions. Following the ceremony to enshrine the Sacred Relics, His Eminence the Ling Rinpoche personally distributed sets of books and school supplies to 100 local schoolchildren.
In addition, His Eminence the Ling Rinpoche also laid the foundation stone for the ‘Kundun Happiness Retreat House. The Chairman of the Foundation for Buddhist Brotherhood and the Chairman of the Pali and Sanskrit Cultural Exchange Centre, Dr. Damenda Porage, and Dr. Shermila Milroy also participated in this occasion. Coinciding with this religious festival, two cattle destined for slaughter were given freedom in an act of compassion. Furthermore, Dr. Damenda Porage presented His Eminence the Ling Rinpoche with a photograph of His Eminence, which was adorned with gemstones. A large gathering of lay devotees and members of the Maha Sangha, including Chief Prelates (Mahanayaka Theros), were present to witness and pay homage to the Venerable Sacred Relics of the Buddha. The ceremony was successfully organized by the Chairman of the Foundation for Buddhist Brotherhood and the ‘Pali and Sanskrit Cultural Exchange Centre’, Dr. Damenda Porage, and, along with the dedicated staff and the support of the local community.
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