SL Envoy participates in Buddha Purnima celebrations hosted by Hindu Council of Kenya
The Hindu Council of Kenya hosted a celebration of the Buddha Purnima, also known as the Vesak festival, with Kana Kananathan, High Commissioner of Sri Lanka, as the chief guest.
This event, held in Nairobi, was graced by the presence of the Buddhist clergy and members of the Hindu Council, reflecting the rich tapestry of cultural and spiritual unity between Kenya, India, and Sri Lanka.
In his keynote address, High Commissioner Kananathan expressed deep gratitude and honour for being part of this auspicious occasion, highlighting his long-standing affiliation with the Hindu Council in Africa.
He emphasised the profound significance of Vesak, which commemorates the Birth, Enlightenment, and Passing of Gautama Buddha, underscoring the shared spiritual heritage and interfaith harmony that bind the communities of Kenya, India, and Sri Lanka.
Kananathan lauded the Hindu Council of Kenya for its exemplary efforts in fostering interfaith dialogue and unity among diverse faith communities. He drew attention to the historical and cultural connections between the three nations, noting how the Indian Ocean has served as a conduit for dialogue, trade, and mutual enrichment rather than a barrier.
The High Commissioner highlighted the historical journey of Buddhism from India to Sri Lanka, marked by Emperor Ashoka’s missionary efforts, and the pivotal role played by Arahat Mahinda in establishing Buddhism in Sri Lanka.
He acknowledged the significant contributions of the Indian diaspora and the Hindu Council in Kenya in enriching the Kenyan cultural mosaic with spiritual traditions of the subcontinent.
In a gesture of goodwill and unity, High Commissioner Kananathan presented a statue of Lord Buddha to the Hindu Council of Kenya. This statue, blessed and revered, symbolizes peace, enlightenment, and the deep spiritual connection shared between the communities.
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