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| Saturday, 7 February 2004 |
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Mahabodhi Society celebrates country's Independence in Chennai by Ananda Kannangara The Sri Lanka Mahabodi Society in Chennai on Wednesday commemorated the country's 56th National Independence Day on a grand scale with the participation of Sri Lankan citizens living in India in large numbers. The day's proceedings began with the lighting of the traditional oil lamp by the Viharadipathi of Sri Lanka Maha Bodi Society, Chennai Ven. Banagala Upatissa and several other religious dignitaries. Several distinguished invitees from Chennai and Sri Lanka too attended. Prof. Sunil Ariyaratna was the chief guest. The main feature of the program was the distribution of parcels of dry rations to 25 Sri Lankan families whom are currently seeking refuge in Tamilnadu. "The main objective of holding this event for the third time at Mahabodi temple is to create awareness of the people in Chennai how Sri Lanka achieved independence 56 years ago and the current economic progress of our country," a spokesman for the Prime Minister's office told the Daily News. Addressing the gathering Prof. Ariyaratna said that at this crucial moment when neighbouring Sri Lanka is seeking a political solution to the current ethnic crisis it is heartening to see a large number of Tamils and other communities living in Chennai gathered at the Mahabodi temple to commemorate Sri Lanka's independence with their Sinhalese friends. "Our only objective is to see the communities of all religions and ethnic groups in Sri Lanka living in harmony," he said. He said that if Tamil children enter the Buddha Sasana, the bond between Sinhalese and Tamils will be strengthened. With combined multi-community cultural and social programs there will be no ethnic conflicts further on our land. Ven. Banagala Upatissa Thera said the dark clouds of war have passed after a lapse of two decades and now the Government is looking for a permanent solution to this cruel war. Prof. E. Balaguru was also present. |
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