Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena said that Buddhism is one of the greatest religions in the world, which teaches human beings to share the world with other living beings.
“The most valuable thing we can give the world as a gift is nothing but the great Theravada teachings of the Buddha,” he said.
 Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena
|
He was speaking at the launch of the State Vesak festival at the Kebellawala Sri Rathanasiri Bhikku Training Centre and Maha Pirivena on May 4.
Venerable members of Maha Sangha, Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs Minister Vidura Wickramanayaka, foreign dignitaries and invitees were present.
In trying to make the most sublime teachings of Buddhism a realisation, the pivotal role played by the Most Venerable members of Maha Sangha is highly commendable and praiseworthy. This year’s State Vesak Festival would pave the way for realising Buddhism and living according to its timeless teachings and can be deemed a good opportunity for the people in the Puttalam district in particular to work in unison for the betterment and safety of everyone.
The Premier said that development doesn’t mean mere material development but spiritual development is what The Buddha taught the world. In a world which is subject to constant change, people have experienced on many occasions how their material possessions are destroyed and subject to the theory of impermanence.
He further said that the State Vesak Festival could not be held in the past four years owing to various crises faced by the country and this year’s State Vesak Festival would be a good opportunity for children to get a first hand, practical experience on how to celebrate Vesak in a meaningful way.
The Prime Minister also expressed his gratitude to those who made every possible effort to make the Vesak Festival a reality and a success.
Secretary to the Ministry of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, Somarathe Vidanapathirana said that several special programs will be implemented along with this State Vesak Festival throughout the year. The program to translate the Sambuddha Jayanthi Tripitaka into various languages and digitise it to make it easier for people all over the world to learn Buddhism and improve the condition of their lives in keeping with the noble, timeless teachings of the Buddha.
He said that the Ministry of Buddhasasana always seeks advice and expertise from the Maha Sangha to make Sri Lanka a centre for learning and propagation of Theravada Buddhism.