-By A Special Correspondent
(Lanka-e-News -18.April.2025, 8.30 PM) With the gentle toll of temple bells and the fragrance of jasmine rising with the morning mist, the historic city of Kandy witnessed a moment of profound spiritual awakening as the “Siri Dalada Wandanawa”, the sacred public exposition of the Sacred Tooth Relic, commenced today after a solemn hiatus of sixteen years.
The ceremony, imbued with reverence and national significance, was inaugurated under the patronage of His Excellency President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, who humbly offered the first floral tribute before the hallowed relic. In that sacred gesture, the nation was reminded once again of its deep-rooted Buddhist heritage and the timeless bond between the people of Sri Lanka and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa).
The Sacred Tooth Relic, enshrined within the venerated chambers of the Temple in Kandy, is more than a revered object of worship—it is a symbol of sovereignty, unity, and protection. For centuries, kings, pilgrims, and seekers of truth have journeyed to venerate this relic of the Blessed One, the Gautama Buddha.
The recommencement of the Siri Dalada Wandanawa is not merely a religious occasion; it is a renewal of faith, a reawakening of national conscience, and a return to the Dharma during times of transformation. The President’s Media Division (PMD) stated that this event is being held at the personal request of the President, under the spiritual guidance of the Chief Prelates of the Malwathu and Asgiri Chapters, and the custodianship of the Diyawadana Nilame of the Temple.
Following the inaugural tribute by President Dissanayake, the relic was made visible to the faithful public for veneration from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. today. From tomorrow (April 19) onward, worshippers will be able to pay homage to the Sacred Tooth Relic daily from 12:00 noon to 5:00 p.m., until the conclusion of the exposition on April 27.
Thousands of devoted pilgrims—from remote villages to bustling cities—flocked to Kandy to kneel in humble prayer, eyes brimming with gratitude and hearts heavy with reverence. For many, this was the first time in their lives they were able to glimpse the Sacred Relic—a moment of awakening, a lifetime’s blessing.
The event was also graced by an unprecedented gathering of Ambassadors, High Commissioners, and diplomats from 17 nations, including India, Japan, France, Vietnam, the Netherlands, and Cuba. In a symbolic gesture of simplicity and solidarity, the diplomatic delegation traveled together in a special observation saloon train from Colombo Fort to Kandy, echoing the humble journeys of ancient pilgrims.
Upon arrival, they were welcomed with a traditional Sinhala and Tamil New Year celebration at the Mahaweli Reach Hotel, before proceeding to the Temple to partake in the sacred opening ceremony.
This spiritual and diplomatic convergence signaled a powerful message to the world—that Sri Lanka is healing, that faith and culture can guide diplomacy, and that the Sacred Tooth Relic continues to illuminate the path of peace.
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, Hiniduma Sunil Senevi, expressed deep gratitude to the Maha Sangha, the President, and all citizens for coming together in reverence and unity. He emphasized the profound role Buddhism has played in shaping the cultural and moral fabric of Sri Lanka and commended the President’s initiative for restoring this sacred tradition.
“This is not simply a ceremonial return,” the Minister said. “It is the rekindling of the Buddha’s light in our governance, in our society, and in our hearts.”
For centuries, the Dalada Maligawa has stood as a silent witness to the island's trials and triumphs. Through invasions, revolutions, and calamities, the Sacred Tooth Relic has remained protected, revered, and untouched. Its sacred presence symbolizes continuity, compassion, and a moral compass in times of uncertainty.
The Diyawadana Nilame, in his address, reflected on the Temple’s timeless mission: to uphold the Dhamma, to welcome all beings with compassion, and to serve as a spiritual lighthouse for the nation. “Let the Sacred Tooth Relic be a beacon—not only of Buddhist faith—but of harmony, healing, and humility,” he said.
In an age of political polarization and material distraction, the Siri Dalada Wandanawa offers the people a rare opportunity to unite under the banner of faith. From young children clutched in their mothers' arms, to elderly pilgrims leaning on wooden canes, all who passed through the Temple gates today shared one sentiment: deep devotion.
Some brought offerings of lotus flowers, others lit oil lamps. All offered silent prayers for peace, prosperity, and the continued protection of the Buddha Sasana.
In reestablishing the “Siri Dalada Wandanawa”, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has taken a step beyond politics. He has tapped into the spiritual wellspring of the nation, affirming that leadership is not only about policies and reforms—but also about upholding timeless values and honoring sacred traditions.
As the ten-day veneration unfolds, may every visitor be reminded of the Buddha’s teachings: Sīla, Samādhi, Paññā—virtue, concentration, and wisdom. And may Sri Lanka, as a nation, walk that noble path, guided by the light of the Dhamma and the sacred presence of the Sri Dalada.
Let the drums of the Temple echo once more, not only in the chambers of Kandy, but in every heart that yearns for truth, peace, and liberation.
“Sādhu! Sādhu! Sādhu!”
-By A Special Correspondent
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by (2025-04-18 15:04:53)
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