Lanka, India Mahabodhi Societies join to mark Sambuddhatva Jayanthi

Priyanka KURUGALA

The Sri Lanka Mahabodhi Society in collaboration with the Indian Mahabodhi Society have planned to hold the 2600 Sambuddhathva Jayanthi on a grand scale.

The organizers have planned to open a new pilgrims rest named Mahabodhi Nikethanaya at Chennai in India on May 14 at the auspicious time of 9.34 a.m. with the participation of Deputy Sri Lankan High Commissioner in Chennai Wadiwel Krishnamoorthi and other guests.

This was revealed at a press conference at the Mahabodhi Society Head quarters in Colombo on Monday.

Addressing the press Sri Lanka Mahabodi Society Chairman Most Ven Banagala Upatissa Thera said, King Asoka was the pioneer to launch the Buddhist missionary work throughout the world. As a result Sri Lanka today has the opportunity to hold the 2600th Sambuddathva Jayanthi.

President Mahinda Rajapaksa the Government and Sri Lankan Public lent their support instinted to build the Nikethanaya, thera said.

The Chief Incumbent of the Chennai Mahabodhi Centre Most Ven Thiniyawala Palitha Thera said that Nikethanaya was constructed at a cost Rs 65 million. This Building contains all facilities. There are 32 rooms with bathrooms. It is a five storeyed building.

To mark the 2600th Sambuddhatva Jayanthi the Chennai Mahabodhi Centre has plans to ordain 10 Indian youths.

The Hatton National Bank will provide the sponsorship for media persons to visit India.