Special exposition of Sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha from 18-27 April

• Sacred event marks first public exposition in 16 years
• President AKD expresses deep gratitude to Mahanayake Theras for approval of exposition 
• Anticipates move will promote religious and cultural enlightenment

In response to a request by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, it has been decided to hold a special exposition of the Sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha for the general public from 18-27 April, the President’s Media Division (PMD) said.

This sacred event, taking place at the Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa) in Kandy, marks the first public exposition of the relic in 16 years.

President Dissanayake, who met with the Mahanayake Theras yesterday at the President’s House in Kandy, expressed deep gratitude for granting the Buddhist community the opportunity to partake in this sacred event.

The exposition will be open to the public on 18 April from 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., and thereafter, from 19 to 27 April, daily from 12 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

He emphasised that the Buddhist people of Sri Lanka aspire to see the Sacred Tooth Relic revered and worshipped throughout their lifetime.

The President also expressed that this sacred event would help restore the declining civility in the country and serve as a catalyst for religious and cultural enlightenment.

Highlighting the significance of organising such events for the promotion of Buddhist enlightenment, President Dissanayake conveyed his hope that this exposition, which coincides with the New Year celebrations, would help guide the country towards a new direction.

He anticipates the participation of hundreds of thousands of people, with large crowds expected to attend the exposition over the course of the 10-day event. The President stressed that it is the responsibility of all to ensure the public can worship the Sacred Tooth Relic without hindrance and assured that the Government would provide full support to facilitate this opportunity for all.

During the discussion, it was decided to establish three separate lines for the public to venerate the Sacred Tooth Relic during the special exposition. 

President Dissanayake instructed officials to follow the guidance of the Mahanayake Theras regarding the safety of both the Sacred Tooth Relic and the public.

It was also proposed that schools in Kandy be closed during the period of the exposition, with alternative dates for student education to be scheduled.

Considerable attention was given to ensuring adequate sanitary facilities for devotees and managing waste effectively. Plans were also made for a vehicle management system to handle the increased traffic during the event.

Additionally, extensive discussions were held regarding the provision of healthcare, drinking water, and other essential services for the public. There was also a proposal to allow people who wish to provide food for devotees to register for “Dansal” (free food). 

Further discussions focused on the importance of decorating the event in a manner that promotes Buddhist enlightenment and raises awareness about the exposition of the Sacred Tooth Relic.

The meeting was attended by the Maha Sangha led by the Malwathu and Asgiri Anunayake Theras, Buddhist Affairs, Religious and Cultural Affairs Minister Dr. Hiniduma Sunil Senevi, Agriculture, Livestock, Land and Irrigation Minister K.D. Lalkantha, Central Province Governor Sarath Bandara Samarasinghe Abayakoon, Secretary to the President Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, Diyawadana Nilame Pradeep Nilanga Dela, the District Secretary, Divisional Secretaries, heads of line institutions, and senior officials from the Tri-Forces and Police.