Dhamma Across the Strait: The IBC Reunion in Colombo

COLOMBO – In a significant move to bolster spiritual and diplomatic ties between India and Sri Lanka, the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) hosted the “Friends of IBC Reunion” on February 6 at the Taj Samudra Hotel. The high-profile gathering brought together over a hundred senior monastics, scholars, and government dignitaries to reaffirm the role of Buddhism as the “golden thread” connecting the two South Asian neighbors.

The event took place against the backdrop of the historic first-ever international exposition of the Holy Devnimori Relics of Lord Buddha in Sri Lanka. A high-level Indian delegation, led by the Governor of Gujarat, His Excellency Dr. Acharya Devvrat, and Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi, participated in the reunion as part of their official visit to the island nation.

A Convergence of the Maha Sangha

The occasion saw a formidable representation of the Sri Lankan clergy, including Most Ven. Niyangoda Vijithasiri Anu Nayaka Thero of the Malwatta Chapter and Most Ven. Waskaduwe Mahindawansa Maha Nayaka Thero. Nearly fifty prominent monks from the Siam, Amarapura, and Ramanna Nikayas attended, underscoring the unity of the local Sangha in fostering international Buddhist cooperation.

Addressing the assembly, Acting Indian High Commissioner Dr. Satyanjal Pandey emphasized that the bond between India and Sri Lanka transcends modern diplomacy, rooted instead in centuries of shared Dhamma. This sentiment was echoed by Gujarat Governor Dr. Devvrat, who highlighted the spiritual heritage that serves as a foundation for regional peace.

The Indo-Lanka Pali Dialogue

A focal point of the reunion was the “Indo-Sri Lankan Pali Dialogue,” a scholarly discussion moderated by IBC Director General Abhijit Halder. Panelists, including former Minister of Buddhasasana Dr. Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe and senior academic monks, explored the contemporary relevance of the Pali language. The dialogue stressed the necessity of strengthening the relationship between Pali and Sanskrit traditions to preserve the authentic teachings of the Buddha in a modern context.

Ven. Senior Prof. Miriswatte Wimalagnana Thero further expanded on this theme in a keynote lecture titled “The Role of Sri Lanka in the Global Buddhist Community,” detailing the island’s historical mission as a custodian of the Theravada tradition.

Honoring Cultural Guardians

The evening also served as a platform for appreciation. The IBC presented mementos to several key figures for their lifelong commitment to Buddhist diplomacy. Special recognition was accorded to Ven. Banagala Upatissa Thero and Dr. Damenda Porage, the Deputy Secretary General of the IBC, for their instrumental roles in representing Sri Lanka within the global organization since its inception.

In his vote of thanks, Dr. Damenda Porage invoked the Buddha’s teaching—“Vissasa Parama Gyati” (Trust is the highest kinship)—to describe the current state of Indo-Lanka relations. “This gathering is more than a reunion; it is a foundation for a united Buddhist world,” Dr. Porage stated, noting that the shared values of compassion and mutual trust remain the most effective bridge across the Palk Strait.

The event concluded with a traditional Sri Lankan cultural performance and the offering of Alms (Dana) to the Maha Sangha, symbolizing the enduring hospitality and spiritual devotion that characterize the bilateral relationship.