President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, currently on an official visit to India, visited Bodh Gaya yesterday (17) and paid homage at the Mahabodhi Temple and the Sacred Sri Maha Bodhi tree, where Prince Siddhartha attained enlightenment.
Bodh Gaya is one of the four primary sacred sites associated with the life of Gautama Buddha and holds deep significance for Buddhists worldwide. The Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2002, stands as a revered symbol of enlightenment and peace.
The President received blessings from Ven. Pelwatte Seewalee Thera, General Secretary of the Maha Bodhi Society of India, and Ven. Rathmalwala Sumiththananda Nayake Thera, Head of the Sarnath Center, during the visit.
Joining the President in Bodh Gaya were Foreign Affairs Minister Vijitha Herath, Foreign Employment and Tourism Minister, and Labour Minister and Economic Development Deputy Minister Prof. Anil Jayantha Fernando.
The visit underscores Sri Lanka’s deep cultural and spiritual ties with India and the shared heritage of Buddhism.
