Maha Guru Padmasambhava and Bodhisattva Deity Tara arrived in Sri Lanka for 90th Birthday of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama
Semkay Ling, the Pali and Sanskrit Cultural Exchange Center is honoured to announce the sacred Ceremony of Setting Up the Statues of Maha Guru Padmasambhava and Bodhisattva Deity Tara, which was held Monday, 4th August 2025 to commemorate the worldwide 90th birthday celebration of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama. This auspicious event witnessed the participation of the Venerable Mahā Sangha from both the Pali and Sanskrit traditions.
Maha Guru Padmasambhava, often referred to as the “Second Buddha,” is a central figure in Vajrayana Buddhism. He is credited with introducing Vajrayana teachings to Tibet in the 8th century and establishing them as a living and enduring spiritual tradition. He was believed to have spent a few years of his life at Sri Pada area. Known for his profound wisdom and boundless compassion, Maha Guru Padmasambhava is revered for having subdued both external and internal obstacles to spread the Dharma. His presence remains a powerful inspiration for spiritual seekers across the world.
Bodhisattva Deity Tara is revered as the embodiment of compassion and enlightened activity. She is believed to respond instantly to the calls of those in distress, guiding them away from fear and suffering. In the Vajrayana tradition, Tara represents the protective and nurturing dimension of awakening, offering solace and strength to devotees in times of difficulty.
The precious statues from Nepal were gifted to the Center by the eminent Tibetan teacher and benefactor, Kandro Tsering Wangmo and her family. These sacred images stand as symbols of inter-traditional unity and spiritual dedication.
The event brought together over 100 Buddhist monks, invited by the Chairman Dr Damenda Porage, representing both the Pali and Sanskrit traditions, along with a large number of lay Buddhist devotees who joined in heartfelt devotion. The ceremony included religious observances, sacred chanting, and traditional rituals to consecrate the statues.
This is the fourth event of the series of events organized by the Foundation for Buddhist Brotherhood this year to celebrate the 90th auspicious birthday of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.