Heiyanthuduwa, SRI LANKA – On March 10, 2026, the Semkay Ling Pali and Sanskrit Cultural Exchange Centre officially inaugurated the third phase of its Tibetan Language Teaching Program. As the world’s first and only center dedicated to the exchange of Pali and Sanskrit culture, the institution continues its mission to provide Buddhist researchers and scholars with the linguistic tools necessary for deep scriptural exploration.
The program, held under the auspices of the Center’s Director, Ven. Balangoda Seelarathana Thero, aims to fortify the long-standing religious and cultural bonds between Pali and Sanskrit Buddhist traditions. By offering a structured path into the Tibetan language, the center opens a vital door for those studying primary Buddhist sources that are often unavailable in their original forms.
The third phase of the program is facilitated by the esteemed Ven Geshe Sonam Jangchup of the Gaden Jangtse Monastery in Mundgod, India. A renowned linguistic scholar, Geshe Sonam Jangchup holds the prestigious Geshe Lharampa degree—an academic distinction equivalent to a Doctorate in Buddhist Philosophy.
Having served as a teacher for many prominent academic and religious institutes across India, his involvement brings a wealth of traditional and pedagogical expertise to the students at Semkay Ling, ensuring a high standard of linguistic and philosophical training.
The opening ceremony was marked by traditional solemnity and the lighting of the ceremonial oil lamp. The event was graced by several prominent members of the Maha Sangha and local dignitaries, including:
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Ven. Balangoda Seelarathana Thero: Incumbent of Biyagama Bodhidharmaramaya and Director of the Center.
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Ven. Keragala Pangnawasa Nayake Thero: Incumbent of Ganewatta Purana Viharaya.
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Ven. Pulathisigama Dhammarathana Thero: Incumbent of Mabima Nandaramaya.
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Mrs. Mala Surangani: Coordinator of Buddhist Affairs for the Biyagama Divisional Secretariat, Government of Sri Lanka
The Importance of Tibetan in Buddhist Scholarship
During the proceedings, the Registrar of the Center, Dr. Sharmila Milroy, officially welcomed the facilitator and the incoming cohort of students. In her address, Dr. Milroy highlighted the critical role of the Tibetan language in modern scholarship:
“In instances where the original Pali or Sanskrit manuscripts of certain Buddhist texts have been lost to time, the Tibetan translations remain our most accurate records. Studying these translations is not just a linguistic exercise, but a necessity for the true exploration of Buddhist philosophy.”