Members of the delegation that offered a relic of the Buddha pose with for a photo with His Holiness the Dalai Lama
In a momentous event that resonates deeply with Buddhist devotees worldwide, a delegation of Buddhist monks from Sri Lanka made a pilgrimage to Dharamshala on April 4th to present relics of the Buddha to His Holiness the Dalai Lama. These sacred artifacts, preserved for over a century within their monastery, were offered as a gesture of reverence and unity within the global Buddhist community.
Led by the Most Venerable Dr. Waskaduwe Mahindawansa Maha Nayaka Thero, the head of Amarapura Sambuddha Sasanodaya Maha Nikaya, the Sri Lankan delegation embarked on a journey to fulfill a long-standing aspiration. Coordinated by Dr. Damenda Porage, Founder-President of the Sri Lanka-Tibetan Buddhist Brotherhood, this moment marked a convergence of faith, tradition, and friendship.
Upon their arrival at Dharamshala, His Holiness greeted the delegation with humility and grace, symbolizing the profound respect for the relics they carried. A ceremonial procession ensued, led by the Most Venerable Thero and his companions, as they approached the residence of His Holiness.
In a solemn exchange, His Holiness reverently touched the portable reliquary, bowing his head in acknowledgment of the sacredness of the moment. The Sri Lankan delegation offered prayers for His Holiness’s health and longevity, expressing gratitude for his service to humanity.
During the interaction, the Most Venerable Thero articulated the essence of Buddhist teachings, emphasizing the significance of loving-kindness and compassion. Reflecting on the Buddha’s legacy, he underscored the relevance of cultivating warm-heartedness in today’s world.
In response, His Holiness reiterated his profound respect for all religious traditions while highlighting Buddhism’s emphasis on reason and secular ethics. He emphasized the importance of promoting universal values, particularly compassion, as essential for fostering peace and harmony globally.
The exchange of relics symbolizes not only a tangible connection to the historical Buddha but also a spiritual bond that transcends geographical boundaries. The relics, originally enshrined by the Buddha’s Shakyan relatives in Kapilavastu, carry profound significance for Buddhists worldwide, serving as reminders of the Buddha’s teachings and the path to enlightenment.
The journey of these relics from Sri Lanka to Dharamshala echoes a timeless pilgrimage of faith, devotion, and unity among Buddhist practitioners. It serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring legacy of the Buddha’s teachings and the shared aspirations for peace and harmony in the world.
As the Sri Lankan delegation concluded their visit, they left behind not only relics but also a message of goodwill and solidarity, reaffirming the timeless bond that unites Buddhist communities across the globe. In the spirit of metta, or loving-kindness, they departed with blessings and best wishes, carrying with them the hopes for a brighter and more compassionate world.