Alms-giving for 2,600 Bhikkhus

Hemanthi GURUGE

A special alms-giving will be offered to 2,600 Bhikkhus to mark the 2600th Sri Sambuddhatva Jayanthi, at the Bollagala Manelwathu Rajamaha Viharaya, Kelaniya on May 07, President's Religious and Cultural Affairs International Advisor Ven. Dr Bodagama Chandima Thera said.

The Thera was addressing the media at the All Ceylon Buddhist Congress on Wednesday. He said President Mahinda Rajapaksa, several Ministers and about 150 foreign delegates from China, Taiwan, Malaysia etc will attend the alms-giving.

A lecture hall, hostel and another building for the International Buddhist University and Sambuddhatva Jayanthi Conference hall will be opened on this day. Academic work of the International Buddhist University will commence in August, the Thera said.

The International Buddhist University will provide opportunities to foreigners hoping to study Buddhism, conduct research on Buddhism or meditation. A language learning centre will also be setup in the University to teach English.

The shooting of International film on Sidhuhath Charithaya will also commence on this day, the Thera said.