Dear Land of Diversity, greetings from your neighbor in celebration of your freedom

On Aug 15, 2024

Mother India, the neighbor of Sri Lanka which is often referred to as the Pearl of the Indian Ocean, shares a deep connection with this island nation. According to scientists and archaeologists, our land was once part of the Indian subcontinent, linked through the Deccan Plateau. Over time, our country became an island, now separated from India by a mere 32 kilometers.

The bilateral relations between the two countries stretch back millennia. According to legend, in the 26th century BC, King Rama traveled to Sri Lanka via Adam’s Bridge to rescue Princess Sita, who had been abducted by King Ravana. Even today, remnants of a sandbank can be found in that area.

The greatest philosopher the world has ever known, the Buddha, was born in India. It is said that the Buddha visited Sri Lanka three times in the 6th century BC. The arrival of the Aryans in the 6th century BC marked a turning point in Sri Lankan history, with King Vijaya becoming the first monarch of the island. The Aryans established their settlements along the rivers and valleys.

As a Theravada Buddhist country, Sri Lanka received the gift of Buddhism during the reign of Emperor Ashoka, whose son, Arhat Mahinda Thero, brought the teachings of the Buddha to the island.

The fields of arts, architecture, literature, and music in Sri Lanka were deeply nurtured by Indian influence. When Sangamitta Theri arrived in Sri Lanka with a sapling of the sacred Bodhi tree, she was accompanied by numerous skilled craftsmen whose talents enriched Sri Lankan culture and tradition.

India has consistently stood by Sri Lanka during times of political turmoil. According to the Divyavadana, written by Ven. Huen Sang Thero, Sri Lanka’s political lineage began with kings who came from India.

Historical texts note that kings such as Ilanaga and Mugalan I sought the assistance of Indian military forces to defend the land. Additionally, Sri Lankan monarchs relied on Indian administrators to help govern the country. Sri Lankan kings also extended their support to Indian rulers in times of need; for example, legend states that King Sena of Sri Lanka traveled to India to assist King Varagunavarman to fight a battle.

Over time, various agreements and alliances were forged to strengthen the bilateral relations between the two nations. In 1977, a cultural collaboration agreement was established to strengthen the cultural ties between the two countries. The 1987 Indo-Lanka Pact was a significant step toward promoting peace, while the 1998 Indo-Lanka Trade Agreement facilitated the exchange of goods between the two nations without taxes.

India has consistently come to Sri Lanka’s aid during times of natural disasters, such as the tsunami, floods, and landslides. Additionally, during the COVID-19 pandemic and economic downturn, India acted as our savior, providing essential support. Embracing the noble concept of “Neighborhood First,” India has extended loans, aid, dry rations, and other essentials during times of crisis, becoming a pillar of strength for Sri Lanka.

Both our nations are blessed lands that have shed blood and tears in defending themselves against Western invaders. Yet, these two blessed lands ultimately broke free from those shackles and gained their freedom.

India attained its freedom on August 15, 1947, and its state emblem features the three lion heads, the Wheel of Dhamma, and a representation of the stone carvings found on the Ashoka Pillar. Therefore, Mother India should always receive the blessings of the Triple Gem. Today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is at the helm, guiding the nation. In the past, Anagarika Dharmapala rendered invaluable service to Buddhism by safeguarding its sacred sites in India. Today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi continues that legacy, swiftly responding to any urgent needs that arise for Sri Lanka.

So, dear neighbor, as your friend and ally, we wish you all the best.
May Mother India live long, and may her flag fly high in the sky. The leader of the great nationPrime Minister Modi, may you be blessed with even greater courage and a long life to serve the planet.

Dr. Damenda Porage
Chairman
Foundation for Buddhist Brotherhood