Compassion in Action: Buddhist Brotherhood Society Marks His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 90th Birthday with Grand Dana and Flood Relief

A Traditional Pindapatha at Semkay Ling

The day’s proceedings commenced at the Semkay Ling Centre in Heiyanthuduwa with a traditional Pindapatha Dana. In a sight that stirred the hearts of many devotees, 51 Buddhist monks walked in a silent, mindful alms procession. The group was led by the Most Ven. Dr. Waskaduwe Mahindawansa Mahanayake Thero, whose presence underscored the deep respect the Sri Lankan Maha Sangha holds for the spiritual leadership of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

• Following the Pindapatha, the Society extended its Dana offerings to over 70 additional monks by delivering requisites directly to their respective temples, ensuring that a total of over 120 venerable monks participated in the meritorious act.

‘Karuna Dhara’: Extending Compassion to the Suffering

True to the teachings of the Buddha on the importance of Dana (generosity) and Karuna (compassion), the event moved beyond the temple walls. Under the Society’s social welfare initiative, ‘Karuna Dhara’ (River of Compassion), boxes of essential dry rations were distributed to local families who have been severely impacted by recent flooding in the region.

This gesture mirrored the lifelong message of His Holiness the Dalai Lama: that the heart of religion is human affection and compassion for those in need.

A Decade of Resilience (2015–2025)

The event also served as a milestone for the Buddhist Brotherhood Society. Since its inception in 2015, the Society has worked tirelessly to bridge the Sri Lankan and Tibetan Buddhist traditions. Despite facing significant challenges and opposition over the past decade, the Society has remained steadfast in its commitment to the four principal pillars of His Holiness’s mission.

During the year 2025, the Society reached new heights, including:

• Facilitating the first Sri Lankan parliamentary representation at the CTA in Dharamsala.
• Organizing a professional cultural troupe to perform for His Holiness.
• Establishing the Kundun Happiness Retreat Centre and the 1,000 Buddhas Holy Chamber.

Dedication of Merit

The day concluded with a formal dedication of merit (Punya). The gathered devotees and the Maha Sangha transferred the accumulated merits to His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, praying for his long life (Ayu) and excellent health (Vanna), so that he may continue to be a beacon of peace for the world.

The merit was also shared with the staff of the Private Office of His Holiness and all those who have stood as “unshaken pillars” of support for the Society over the last ten years.

As the sun set over the Semkay Ling Centre, the event stood as a testament to the fact that while traditions may differ in form, the essence of the Dhamma—compassion, service, and gratitude—remains a universal language.