US Buddhists in Sri Lanka for Vesak

Dharma Sri Abeyratne

A group of Buddhist pilgrims from America will visit the country today, with the aim of participating in religious activities during Vesak week.

A team consisting of 14 individuals, including four monks, will visit Buddhist temples, religious places of worship and tourist locations such as the Temple of Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy, Adam's Peak, Kirama Temple, Dambulla Temple, Anuradhapura, Sigiriya, Nuwara Eliya, Tangalle.

Speaking to the Daily News, Ven Kirama Dammananda thera who lead the Buddhist delegation, said that Buddhists in America were keen on visiting Sri Lanka to take part in religious activities.

Their intention was to uplift Buddhism by strengthening a cordial rapport between Sri Lankan and American Buddhists. They intend supporting the Sri Lankans who have suffered a three decade long war.

Dammananda Thera said the delegation will observe Sil today at the Ancient Kirama Temple. They were highly enthusiastic to observe Sil on Vesak Day, which was a significant day for Buddhists. The devotees will stay in Sri Lanka until next Friday.