The ‘Damsak Daruwo’ educational program, initiated under the ‘Dhamma Bridge’ project, was officially launched today at the Pali and Sanskrit Cultural Exchange Centre in Heiyanthuduwa, aiming to foster moral and disciplined youth.
The event’s highlight was the launch of the inaugural book, ‘Damsak Pavathum Suthraya’, compiled by the Centre. Organizers aim to distribute this publication among 100,000 children across the island, introducing the core teachings of Lord Buddha’s first sermon to the younger generation through an island-wide ‘Dhamma Voyage’.
Shri Maitreyi Kulkarni, Deputy High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka, attended the event as the Chief Guest. In his address, he echoed the Indian Prime Minister’s sentiment that India and Sri Lanka are “Civilizational Twins.” He emphasized that a ‘Dhamma Bridge’ of this nature establishes a stronger foundation between the two nations than thousands of physical bridges.
Gampaha District Member of Parliament Ashoka Sapumal Ranwala, attending as a Special Guest, noted that India remains Sri Lanka’s closest ally. He stated that the initiative would strengthen bilateral ties while closely connecting local communities with the Centre.
Dr. Damenda Porage, Deputy Secretary General of the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) and President of the Centre, delivered a keynote address on “The Importance of Pali & Sanskrit Cultural Education.” He also expressed his gratitude to the Indian Government for officially recognizing Pali as a ‘Classical Language.’
The program prioritized religious observances, opening with a welcome address and an overview of objectives by Ven. Balangoda Seelarathana Thero, the Centre’s Director of Religious, Cultural, and Social Affairs.
Other key highlights of the event included:
- Sutta Chanting: Members of the Maha Sangha and participating children inaugurated the event by collectively chanting the ‘Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta’.
- Youth Dhamma Discussion: Dr. Sharmila Milroy, Registrar of the Centre, facilitated a discussion for the children, focusing on applying the teachings of the sutta to modern youth life.
- Book Presentation: Dr. Milroy presented the first copy of the ‘Damsak Pavathum Suthraya’ to the Indian Deputy High Commissioner.
- Certificate Awarding: Distinguished guests distributed certificates to the children participating in the program.
- Dignitary Attendance: The event was attended by local dignitaries, including the Officers-in-Charge of the Biyagama and Sapugaskanda Police Stations.
Operating as the world’s first and only Pali and Sanskrit Cultural Exchange Centre, the institution bridges the Theravada Pali and Nalanda Sanskrit traditions. The Centre’s primary goal is to expand the ‘Damsak Daruwo’ program nationwide, establishing a lasting ‘Dhamma Bridge’ for future generations.