Colombo: Arrangements have been finalized to bring the sacred bodily relics of the Buddha to Sri Lanka for public veneration. The relics, first discovered in the 1960s in the Gujarat region of India, will be displayed at the Gangaramaya Temple in Hunupitiya, Colombo, from February 4th to 11th. This marks the first time these relics will be taken outside of India.

According to News.LK, a special District Coordination Committee meeting was held on January 31 at the Colombo District Secretariat to discuss the preliminary arrangements for the event. The meeting was chaired by Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya and attended by the Chairman of the Colombo District Coordination Committee, Member of Parliament Lakshman Nipuna Arachchi.

Following discussions between President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and the Prime Minister of India, and with the support of the Indian Government, the sacred relics will be available for public viewing 24 hours a day during the exhibition period. A priority queue system will be in place for foreign tourists, pregnant women, and persons with disabilities.

Comprehensive plans have been prepared by relevant government institutions to ensure proper transport, sanitation, and security for devotees. The Department of Railways, Sri Lanka Transport Board, and private bus services will implement a special transportation plan. Additionally, the Police and Tri-Forces will oversee security and traffic management.

The local business community has organized dansal and refreshment services for devotees in queues. All essential arrangements have been made to accommodate weather conditions, ensuring ease for those attending.

The meeting was attended by the Chief Incumbent of the Gangaramaya Temple, Venerable Dr. Kirinde Assaji Thero, members of the Maha Sangha, Minister Harshana Nanayakkara, Deputy Minister Sunil Watagala, Members of Parliament, local government representatives, Colombo District Secretary Prasanna Janaka Kumara, and state officials.