National, int'l celebrations for Sambuddhathva Jayanthi

by L.S. Ananda WEDAARACHCHI

A series of pinkamas and special events will be held at the United Nations headquarters and Dag Hammarsjold Gardens in New York, USA on May 16 to mark the 2600th Sri Sambuddhathva Jayanthi.

The launch of a commerative publication, an inter-religious conference and a Buddhist symposium will be held on May 16 followed by a Buddhist heritage exhibition from May 16 to 23 at the UN Hall.

Alms will be offered to the Maha Sangha in addition to a special perahara at the Dag Hammarsjold grounds.

Prime Minister D.M. Jayaratna said that 16 countries would participate in the 2600th Sambuddhathva Jayanthi Celebrations to be held on the Vesak Day on May 17.

The Central Bank will issue two coins, of Rs. 1,000 and Rs. 10 to mark this historic event, the Prime Minister said that the Buddha Sasana and Religious Affairs Ministry will provide assistance to develop over 2,600 temples and 2,600 Dhamma schools islandwide.

The inauguration ceremony of the 2,600th Sambudhathva Jayanthi will be held on May 14 at the historic Jayasri Maha Bodhi in Anuradhapura under the patronage of President Mahinda Rajapaksa, the Prime Minister said.

Meanwhile, Jaya Pirith to invoke blessings on the country and the people organised by the Defence Ministry will be held at the BMICH, Colombo on May 10 with the participation of 2,600 bhikkhus representing the three Nikayas from all parts of the country.