Buddhist convention on grand scale

Lanka Daily News, Sept 14, 2013

Colombo, Sri Lanka -- The Second Asian Festival of Buddhist Culture and International Convention will be held on September 25-28 at the Sri Lanka International Buddhist Academy (SIBA), Pallekele.

The event is co-organized by World Alliance for Buddhist Cultural Exchange, the Buddhasasana and Religious Affairs Ministry and the Temple of the Tooth Relic.

The festival is organized once every two years as a concept of Most Ven Sri Dayuan Thera, the founder of the Abbot of Ling Quang Temple.

The Thera said culture can bring the message of Buddhism to the people effectively. Buddhist culture is enriched with the peaceful teachings of the Buddha. "We can bring out the message of peace and harmony to every corner of the world through culture," he said.

The first Asian Buddhist Culture Convention was held in 2011 at the historical temple of Aungkor Wat, Cambodia.

Participants from over 24 countries attended the event which was a huge success.

The cultural festival coincides with the establishment of the World Alliance for Buddhist Cultural Exchange forum with its headquarters in Hong Kong. The opening ceremony of the headquarters was held in June and delegates from over 41 countries participated.

Discussions regarding the Second Asian Festival for Buddhist Culture was held in China in 2012 at Leiy Zu Temple. Ven Dr. Walmoruwe Piyaratana Thera and Ven. Suduhumpola Wimalasara Thera, chief incumbent of the Naritasan Joso temple in Japan were nominated as coordinators for the event.

Over 500 participants from 64 countries will participate in this year's event. They will showcase their cultural activities regarding Buddhism.

Buddhist leaders from Theravada, Mahayana and Vajrayana traditions will participate.

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Buddhist convention on grand scale

Lanka Daily News, Sept 14, 2013