We wish our readers a peaceful, serene and healthy Vesak

SRI LANKA’S NATIONAL NEWSPAPER I SINCE 1918 WEDNESDAY MAY 26, 2021 I 15 PAGES I VOLUME - 103 - NO 123 RS. 30.00 I REGISTERED AS A NEWSPAPER IN SRI LANKA I E-PAPER VESAK POYA DAY MESSAGES Determine to act Engage in religious wisely as the Buddha discourse at home - PM

preached - President As COVID-19 has hampered the Vesak challenges in celebrations, commemorate it giving prior- this difficult It is our societal duty in the face of the Events (Themangula) by staying at home dur- ity to understand the Buddhist teachings period. COVID-19 epidemic to dedicate ourselves to ing this Vesak due to COVID-19. in a more pragmatic way, Prime Minister He pointed out the escalation of COVID- the protection and well-being of the lives of “Vesak Full Moon Poya Day, which com- Mahinda Rajapaksa said in his Vesak Poya 19 situation hindered the Government’s others as preached by the Buddha, President memorates the three most significant events Day message. plans of celebrating Vesak on a high note Gotabaya Rajapaksa said in his Vesak Poya of the Buddha’s life (Three Noble Events); the He requested the public to engage in centering the Nagadeepa Raja Maha Day message. Birth of Prince Siddhartha, the Enlightenment Prathipatti Pooja at home during this year’s Viharaya in Jaffna. He also requested the people to engage in of Siddhartha Gautama and the Mahaparinib- Vesak, adding that properly understand- “However, the pandemic is not an obsta- Cabinet approves Amisa Pooja and Prathipaththi Pooja with bana (Passing Away), is the noble and merito- ing the Dhamma preached by the Buddha cle to observe the Vesak in a meaningful great veneration towards the Three Noble rious festival of us Buddhists. TO PAGE 02 provides an invaluable support to face manner. TO PAGE 02 14 mn Sinopharm, The “X-PRESS PEARL” 1 mn AstraZeneca vessel engulfed in flames. Pictures were captured by a SL Air vaccines purchase Force Bell 212 helicopter OPTIONS RUN OUT yesterday morning. FOR MV X-PRESS PEARL The Cabinet has grant- ed approval for the imme- BLAZE ON BOXSHIP OUT OF MEPA, NAVY CONSIDERING INDIAN SHIPS JOIN diate purchase of 14 mil- lion doses of the Chinese CONTROL AFTER EXPLOSION FURTHER ACTION FIREFIGHTING EFFORT Sinopharm vaccine and 1 million doses of the CAMELIA NATHANIEL The Marine Environment Protec- Speaking to the Daily News, had little effect as the fire was able to them which was to tow AstraZeneca vaccine. The chances of saving the Box- tion Authority (MEPA) and other MEPA Director General Terney within the containers carrying 25 the ship away into deep waters in The Cabinet proposal ship MV X-press Pearl anchored off authorities were discussing three Pradeep said that the fire onboard tonnes of Nitric Acid and other order to minimise the impact on in this regard had been Colombo were fading last night as options yesterday evening with the vessel was out of control with chemicals. Sri Lanka, to tow the ship ashore submitted by Health the fire on board went out of control regard to the massive blaze on board yesterday’s explosion and that He said the authorities were or to allow the ship to remain in Minister Pavithra following a massive explosion. the Singapore-registered vessel. spraying water or dry chemicals exploring three best options avail- its current position. TO PAGE 02 Wanniarachchi. TO PAGE 02

All liquor outlets Landslide, flood warning closed till June 7 for six districts All liquor outlets at supermarkets must remain closed until June 7, National Opera- Cyclone Yaas to become severe in next 24 hours tions Centre for Prevention of COVID-19 Outbreak (NOCPCO) Head and Army Com- Rains exceeding 150 mm expected, wind speed to rise mander General Shavendra Silva said. “All liquor outlets must remain closed even when travel restrictions are relaxed. The sale of liquor is not permitted during this period and this applies to all supermar- kets as well,” the Government Information Department stated quoting the Army Com- mander.

RUKSHANA RIZWIE based on information collat- The onset of the Southwest ed by the National Building Motor vehicle monsoon and effect of tropical and Research Organization cyclone Yaas over the Bay of (NBRO) the highest rainfall imports suspended Bengal has exacerbated wet was reported in Galboda in the weather conditions with sev- Ratnapura district receiving The Cabinet has decided to suspend the eral places reporting a maxi- 181mm of rain and Dehiowita import of even a limited number of motor mum rainfall of 180mm yes- in Kegalle district reporting vehicles considering the situation in the terday. 173mm. country, the Prime Minister’s Media Divi- The Meteorology Depart- Continuous rainfall during sion said in a press statement on Monday. ment has sounded the alarm the last 24 hours has also led The Cabinet meeting was held on Monday over ‘Yaas’ which is forecast to to a rise in the Kalu River via Zoom and it was chaired by Prime Minis- Army personnel were yesterday seen decorating the roadsides near the entrance to the Army Headquarters in Pelawatte in intensify into a severe cyclonic basin, prompting the Irrigation ter Mahinda Rajapaksa. TO PAGE 02 Battaramulla with lanterns to mark the Vesak Poya Day. Picture by Saman Sri Wedage. storm. Department to issue an ‘Amber’ As of yesterday evening, flood alert warning. TO PAGE 02

More quarantine law Nurses to withdraw CHEC gets Athurugiriya, from PCR, RAT violators nabbed sample collection New Kelani Bridge SHAVINI MADHARA been arrested so far for vio- ed in the Western Province Police on Monday arrested lating quarantine regulations. on Monday. They had been E-way construction 745 persons for violating quar- DIG also stated that a spe- operating disregarding travel Cite seven unaddressed antine regulations like wearing cial drone operation was con- restrictions. The DIG said face masks and maintaining ducted in Colombo-North and they will be produced before issues despite discussions The Cabinet social distance, Police Media Central-Colombo on Mon- the respective Magistrates’ of Ministers has Spokesperson DIG Ajith Roha- day, and that 12 people were Courts. The Government Nursing Officers’ Asso- granted approval na stated. arrested on offences related About 106 passengers, who ciation said their members decided to with- to award the He said it was the highest to quarantine rules and regu- were on board three-wheelers, draw from obtaining samples for PCR test- construction of the elevated expressway (BOT) basis. He said the CHEC would number of arrests made in a lations by monitoring from had also been taken into police ing and Rapid Antigen Testing (RAT) from that connects the Athurugiriya Inter- be given three years to complete the con- single day since Police began drones. custody under the quarantine yesterday over several problems pertaining change and the New Kelani Bridge to the struction and another 15 years to generate operations to nab quarantine He also noted that 81 rules and regulations and to their service. China Harbour Engineering Corporation income from it. law violators on October 30, three-wheelers were taken they were also to be produced Association President Saman Rathnap- (CHEC), Cabinet Co-Spokesman and Min- Accordingly, the CHEC will get 17 2020. into police custody during before the respective Magis- riya writing to Health Minister Pavithra ister Udaya Gammanpila said. years before it transfers the ownership He said 13,493 people had a special operation conduct- trates’ Courts. TO PAGE 02 Wanniarachchi outlined seven issues faced This construction project will be imple- of the expressway back to the Govern- by the nursing staff, adding that solu- mented on a Build-Operate-Transfer ment. TO PAGE 02 tions were not received to those problems despite repeated discussions with the Health authorities. Super Flower Blood Moon The under- lined issues Two mobile vehicles to provide MP Bandara, wife eclipse today at moonrise include not essentials in each GN area - Minister providing COVID positive The first lunar eclipse lunar eclipse, said Prof. lunar eclipse after 2019 an adequate AMALI MALLAWAARACHCHI of 2021 will be visible to Chandana Jayaratne, the and is famously known as number of N95 Samagi Jana Balawegaya many parts of the world Director of Astronomy and the Super Flower Blood face masks and Co-Cabinet Spokesman Minister Dr. Ramesh (SJB) MP Nalin Bandara and his today (Vesak Full Moon Space Science Unit, of the Moon. other facili- Pathirana said the government will do its best wife tested positive for COVID- day) as a total lunar Colombo University’s Phys- The eclipse is visible as ties related to minimise inconveniences caused to the public 19. eclipse from 2:17 p.m. to ics Department. a total eclipse to regions to COVID-19 during travel restrictions. Posting on his Facebook 7:19 p.m. Sri Lanka Stand- During the lunar eclipse like Australia, parts of the prevention Minister Pathirana said that two mobile vehi- page, the MP confirmed this ard time. the shadow of the Earth western US, western South programmes, cles will be assigned for each Grama Niladhari also requesting those who came It will be visible to Sri falls on the Moon. America, and in South-East not issuing the division to facilitate people to purchase essential into contact with him recently Lanka as a penumbral “This is the first total Asia. TO PAGE 02 Circular food items. Pathirana made these observations at to self quarantine and be vigi- TO PAGE 02 the media briefing on TO PAGE 02 lant. TO PAGE 02 DN page 2 news wednesday, may 26, 2021

death of former dinamina journalist Refrain from organizing Former Dinamina jour- nalist Manel Pushpaku- mari (58) passed away on Monday after a brief ill- ness. She worked in a number – Chief Prelate of newspapers including gatherings the now defunct Eththa newspaper and her contri- AselA KuruluwANsA Vesak Poya Day, the Mahanayaka grown in the minds of the people Dharma) enlightens the people bution to the industry is Refrain from organising reli- Thera advised the people to due to the COVID-19 pandemic and provides guidance to face life immense. gious activities that gather people engage in meritorious deeds while spreading in the entire world. In without frustration. She joined our sister considering the COVID-19 situa- staying at home. this context, understanding the “The Buddha taught that health newspaper Dinamina in tion in the country, Malwathu He emphasised that this is Buddhist doctrine on imperma- is the greatest wealth. Therefore, 2009. During her career as a journalist, she covered Chapter Chief Prelate Most Ven. needed for the wellbeing of all nence of everything provides a people should act responsibly giv- a number of ministries which included all institu- Thibbatuwawe Sri Siddartha people during this pandemic peri- solace to the people’s minds. ing priority to their physical and tions coming under the Environment Ministry. Sumangala Nayaka Thera said. od. The Buddhist philosophy on mental health during this crisis The funeral was held at the Udahamulla Cemetry Issuing a message to mark the “An uncertainty about life has ‘cause and effect’ (Hethu Pala period,” the Thera stated. yesterday.

BOI sets up Intermediate Care Centres for FTZ workers Businessman collapses while jogging Well-known businessman Upali Jayas- the road. The incident occurred around IrANgIKA rANge Minister Prasanna Ranatunga said. The first centre has already been set this is the timely move that BOI initi- inghe, the husband of actress Sabitha 5pm near Ward Place and he was said to The Board of Investment (BOI) has These intermediate care centres will up at the Katunayake FTZ. ated to facilitate COVID infected FTZ Perera was yesterday admitted to the be jogging at that time. decided to set up Intermediate Care be set up with the assistance of the The National Youth Council Centre workers. Lots of COVID infected FTZ Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the Colom- He is currently receiving treatment at Centres for Free Trade Zone (FTZ) private sector considering how the in Maharagama had manufactured 300 workers are curently staying at their bo General Hospital after he collapsed on the ICU. workers infected with COVID-19 with- virus is spreading and the number of beds and handed them over to this homes and they will be directed to in the premises of each FTZ,” Tourism infected workers. centre yesterday.The Minister said these centers immediately.

Us: do not travel to Japan, sri Lanka

The U.S. State Department on before the Tokyo Olympics are set Monday urged against travel to to begin. Japan and Sri Lanka due to a new The department also issued its wave of COVID-19 infections, “Level 4” warning against travel saying those two nations will now to Sri Lanka amid surging infec- fall under the department’s “Level tions there. 4: Do Not Travel” advisory. It saw a lower risk in visiting The U.S. State Department the Caribbean nation of Antigua A man carries a gas cylinder urged against travel to Japan and Barbuda, lowering the islands Vegetable outlets were opened at the Peliyagoda Market for wholesale on his shoulder to get a refill because of a new wave of corona- to a “Level 3 – Reconsider Travel” trade yesterday with the relaxation of travel restrictions. Picture by Saman in the Kaduwela area. Pictures by Sulochana Gamage. virus cases just two months designation. Sri Wedage.

engage in religious... From page 01 determine to act wisely... From page 01

The discipline practiced through Buddhist fosters national harmony and religious co- On this noble day, the entire Bud- Pooja and Prathipaththi Pooja with teachings have helped our people to stand existence and helps all communities to live dhist community across the world great veneration towards the Three up as a proud nation in the world. Buddhism together,” the PM noted. pay homage to the Buddha by per- Noble Events (Themangula) by stay- forming Amisa Pooja (ritualistic ing at home. offerings) and Prathipaththi Pooja “We should keep in mind the (practice) with great joy. advice given by the Venerable Maha- “It is our precious tradition prac- nayake Theras to hold the State Options run out... From page 01 ticed since the ancient times for the Vesak Festival only symbolically in ceive, very artful, and they rush devotees, along with their children, view of the current pandemic in the wherever they list: thoughts well- “The best option would be if we the Indian crew members to perform religious observances country. For the well-being and as guarded bring happiness’. It is our could tow the ship away from Sri had sustained injuries dur- during the Vesak season to mould well as for the safety of all citizens, social responsibility to act wisely by Lanka, but due to the fire and the ing their attempt to evacu- their lives according to the teachings we must strive to observe the rites keeping our mind calm focusing on structure of the ship weakening due ate the ship and have been of the Buddha, as well as for the bet- bearing in mind the Three Noble the above stanza at a time when eve- to the intense heat, there is a risk of admitted to hospital. terment of this world and after. Events. ryone is facing a national disaster. the ship breaking apart. The easiest The vessel is currently 9.5 Nautical Commission in Colombo said that “Like last year, we have lost the ‘Sududdasan Sunipunan - Yath- “I wish that all physical and men- would be to bring the ship closer to Miles off the coast of Colombo. It India deployed multiple assets to opportunity to engage in religious thakaamanipaathinan tal distresses of all the people in the the shore-line, but that is very risky as had departed from the Port of Hazira douse the fire on MV X Press Pearl observances collectively this year as Chitthan Rakketha Medhavi - country and across the world will be the ship contains highly inflammable in India on May 15.The three-month off Colombo promptly responding to well on the recommendations of the Chitthan Gutthan Sukhavahan’ ceased with the practice of rites by chemicals which could cause a huge old, 2,700 TEU boxship caught fire an emergency request by Sri Lanka health sector due to the global “This stanza in Dhammapada preserving Pehevas in a meritorious explosion and cause great damage.” on Thursday off Colombo Port and Navy yesterday. COVID-19 pandemic. “We must be states, ‘Let the wise man guard his mind in this Vesak season,” the Pres- He said that under the present sit- the Navy deployed several vessels to This includes Vessels Vaibhav, determined to engage in Amisa thoughts, for they are difficult to per- ident said. uation, the next option would be to assist in firefighting and the Air Vajra and Samudra Prehari by Indian leave the ship where it is, but con- Force had deployed helicopters to Coast Guard and Tug Water Lilly by taining the fire is an arduous task as spray dry chemicals on the blaze. Director General, Shipping in addi- strong winds due to the cyclonic con- Meanwhile, Air Force Spokesman tion to Dornier aircraft for aerial Landslide, flood warning... From page 01 Cabinet approves 14 mn... From page 01 ditions were fanning the flames fur- Group Captain Dushan Wijesinghe reconnaissance. ther. said that a Bell 212 helicopter had “Immediately upon receiving the He warned that packages or debris sprayed dry chemicals on the ship Sri Lankan request, relevant authori- containing toxic material that had yesterday after the explosion, but it ties in India were alerted and assets fallen overboard from the distressed had no impact on the fire. He also were deployed expeditiously. India vessel off the coast of Sri Lanka may noted that the Air Force Chemical has a tradition of being the first reach the shore around Colombo or Biological Radiological Nuclear and responder during crises in Sri Lanka. Negombo and requested the public Explosive (CBRNE) Wing was on It may be recalled that a potentially to refrain from touching, approach- standby to assist in handling the huge oil spill was averted with assis- J.S. Sugeshwar, director at the hydrology division of ing or opening the packages. toxic materials from the ill-fated ves- tance from India after MT New Dia- the Irrigation Department said that there was a possibil- He urged the public to inform the sel. mond with 200,000 metric tons ity of a minor flood situation in low lying areas of Kalu Police, Tri-Forces or contact the The distressed container ship was crude oil on board caught fire off Sri Ganga in Ratnapura, specifically in Kuruvita, Kiriella, DMC hotline on 117 if they come manned by a crew of 25, who are Lanka’s Eastern Coast in September Ayagama and Elapatha. Residents in these areas have “The vaccines need to be sup- across any of the toxic material or Philippine, Chinese, Indian and Rus- 2020,” the High Commission said in been requested to be on alert as well as motorists who plied as soon as possible as it is the debris. sian nationals. a statement. travel through these townships. The Department has only solution to control the Pradeep said that many cargo con- The Navy had dispatched two Off- X-Press Pearl is a brand new also warned of rising water levels in the Kelani Ganga, COVID-19 pandemic. The Govern- tainers containing chemical materials shore Patrol Vessels, Sri Lanka Naval 36,000 DWT feeder delivered in Feb- Gin Ganga, Nilwala, Attanagalla oya. ment plans to vaccinate 60-70 per have fallen into the sea after yester- Ships (SLNS) Sagara, Sindurala and ruary and operated by X-Press Feed- YAAS cyclone cent of the population by the end of day’s explosion which has caused the a Fast Attack Craft to the scene of ers. She is registered in Singapore The Meteorology Department has warned that cyclon- this year,” the Cabinet paper vessel to tilt. He said that the crew the fire. In addition, one Tug from and runs on X-Press’ Straits Middle ic storm ‘YAAS’ will become “very severe” over the next added. members had abandoned the ship the Sri Lanka Ports Authority East service between Qatar, the 24 hours with wind speeds up to 60-70 kmph. As a In addition, Cabinet has also and a Navy tug had brought the crew (SLPA) also joined the firefighting UAE, India, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, and result rainfall exceeding 150mm is also expected due to approved to import 120,000 liters members ashore. However, two of efforts. Meanwhile, the Indian High Singapore. the cyclone in parts of the Western and Sabaragamwua of liquid oxygen monthly to meet provinces and in the Galle, Matara, Kandy and Nuwara the surging medical oxygen Eliya districts. demand and maintain an adequate secure stock in the The Met Department said in a statement that Yaas is island. From page 01 very likely to move north-northwestwards towards the The Health Minister has presented the relevant Cab- CHeC gets athurugiriya ... From page 01 Two mobile vehicles to ... West Bengal coasts by the evening of May 26. inet Paper. “On April 8, 2020, the Sporadic showers or thundershowers will occur in the “It is essential to provide medical treatments on the Cabinet approved a propos- Cabinet decisions held yesterday (25) morning at the Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, North Western and oxygen concentrators for the critically ill patients al to implement the afore- Government Information Department. Southern provinces as a result of the southwest mon- among the patients diagnosed under the third wave of mentioned project on a Although the method of distribution of essential com- soon condition that is gradually establishing over the COVID-19. It has been decided to establish High BOT basis. Accordingly, modities was more successful in the face of the second country, the statement said. Dependency Units equipped with Wall Oxygen devices bids that had technical and wave of COVID-19 pandemic, this time the Minister Wind speeds in Sri Lanka can increase up to to treat critically ill COVID-19 patients in provincially financial proposals were pointed out that even businessmen with mobile vehicles 50-60kmph and up to 70kmph in the Western slope of identified 25 hospitals covering the entire island, and called from relevant inves- have shown some reluctance to do so, Pathirana said. the central hills and the Northern, North Central, North establish 15 oxygen generator machines in 15 identi- tors for the project. Subse- Western and Uva provinces and in the Kegalle, Vavuniya, fied remote hospitals in order to ensure the necessary quently, the Cabinet approved a proposal by the Highways Mullaitivu, Mannar, Trincomalee and Hambantota dis- medical oxygen supply for the hospitals,” the Govern- Minister to award the implementation of the said project trict. ment Information Department said announcing the to the CHEC. The contract is awarded as per the recom- mP Bandara, wife... From page 01 The public are requested to take adequate precautions Cabinet decisions. mendation of the Negotiation Committee appointed by the to minimise damage caused by temporary localised It has also been decided to provide 2,500 mobile Cabinet,” he said. MP Bandara is the 12th MP to contract COVID-19 and strong winds and lightning during thundershowers, the medical oxygen generators (100 for each district) with the fourth MP to be infected during the third wave. Opposi- Department said. the aim of reducing the need for oxygen supply tion Leader Sajith Premadasa was tested positive for The sea area around the island will be very rough at through cylinders in the hospitals. COVID-19 on Sunday and Nuwara-Eliya District SLPP/CWC times, the met department further said, forecasting tem- MP Maruthapandi Rameshwaram, SJB MP Mujibar Rahu- porary, strong gusty winds and very rough seas during super Flower Blood moon... From page 01 man were also tested positive for COVID-19 last week. thundershowers. Landslide warnings have been issued to six districts nurses to withdraw... From page 01 “The true maximum point of this eclipse cannot be seen including, Galle, Kalutara, Kandy, Kegalle, Nuwara in Sri Lanka because the Moon is below the horizon at that Eliya, Ratnapura districts by the NBRO, warning resi- related to granting special holidays, not providing time. The Moon will rise from the eastern horizon at 6:23 dents to be wary of all mountainous areas, man-made enough transport facilities for the nursing staff who p.m. on May 26 and from that time onwards till the end of more quarantine law... From page 01 cut slopes within the relevant DS divisions. are reporting to work, not paying allowances for hol- the eclipse due at 7:20 p.m. Sri Lankans can see the Moon, idays declared by the Government, not issuing the when it is in the less dark shadow of the Earth (penumbra) DIG Rohana said vehicles will not be allowed on Circular pertaining to providing special facilities for as a penumbral lunar eclipse with a little dimming of the roads for shopping purposes when travel restrictions pregnant nurses, not covering about 4,000 nurses Moon’s brightens. are eased. “Those who need to buy essential items and their family members during “Since the Moon is near the horizon at this time, it is could visit the nearest outlet. Only one member of the motor vehicle imports... From page 01 the inoculation programme and the better to select a high point or find an unobstructed area family can go out,” he said. lack of treatment facilities for with free sight to East-southeast for the best view of the “Persons with disabilities can inform the nearest The PM’s Media Division said the Ministers brought nurses and their family members eclipse,” Prof. Jayaratne said. police station and then the police will provide necessary the attention of the Cabinet on the need to further when they are infected with “A solar eclipse always occurs about two weeks before or arrangements,” DIG Ajith Rohana added. restrict the import of vehicles considering the current COVID-19. after a lunar eclipse. Accordingly, there will be a ring of He said they have deployed a large number of police situation and the country’s financial position. Accord- The letter has also been copied fire annular solar eclipse due on June 10 when the Moon officers in order to monitor the situation. The DIG ingly, measures have been taken to suspend the previ- to the Health Ministry Secretary comes between the Sun and Earth, but this eclipse will not requested the people’s support and cooperation to con- ous proposal to import a limited number of motor vehi- and the Health Services Director be visible to Sri Lanka” he added. trol the COVID-19 pandemic. cles. General. WEDNESDAY, MAY 26, 2021 NEWS page 3 DN Possibilities of extending best care for children, pregnant women during COVID pandemic explored

Senior Medical Experts on Mater- vulnerable and exposed to the virus in ble for maternal and childcare needs nal and Child Health including Dr. certain regions and volunteered to as well. H.S. R Perera, Deputy Health Servic- offer their maximum support to imple- The medical experts also sought es Director General Dr. Chithramalee ment a concrete strategy in this regard openings to get a separate fund alloca- de Silva, Family Health Bureau Direc- as advised by the President. tion passed for this prioritized mater- tor Prof. Dr. Shaman Rajindrajith, General Shavendra Silva requested nal and pediatric need while simulta- Consultant Pediatrician Dr. Surantha those specialists to use a full Ward in neously underlining the need to launch Perera, Consultant Pediatrician Dr. the Army Seva Vanitha Unit-spon- an extensive awareness and educative Sanath Lanerolle, Prenatal Society sored best facility with 1,200 beds at programme among women on those President called on General Shaven- the Seeduwa Intermediate Care Cen- lines during the travel restrictions, so dra Silva, NOCPCO Head, Chief of tre cum new Hospital, equipped with that they could turn to the facility with Defence Staff and Army Commander an emergency treatment unit, isola- less difficulty in an emergency. on Monday at the Army Headquarters tion sections, resuscitation units, ICU The medical specialists, apprecia- and explored possibilities of getting and medical stores for this require- tive of the NOCPCO Head’s support the best care for pregnant women and ment. for the project, volunteered to visit children with special needs. General Shavendra Silva giving the Seeduwa ICC/Hospital today and They sought General Shavendra priority to their concerns requested immediately prepare modalities to Silva’s strategic guidance to find the them to come up with a quick plan of implement the project after discus- best solution for the safety of preg- action on the need since the Seedu- sions with stakeholders and Health General Shavendra Silva in discussion.with medical experts. nant women and sick children who are wa Facility can now be made availa- Ministry officials soon. Sanjay Rajaratnam – Sri Lanka’s Public urged to comply Three fishermen 48th Attorney General with health regulations missing A.M.A.FARERD, LAKMAL SOORIYAGODA AMALI MALLAWAARACHCHI General until his appointment as has held con- It questions the Trincomalee District Special Corr. Acting Solicitor General Sanjay Acting Solicitor General in Octo- sultancy ser- Co-Cabinet Spokesman Minis- proper adherence Rajaratnam, PC will assume ber, 2019. vices in sev- ter Dr. Ramesh Pathirana yester- to the regulations Trincomalee Vibulananda Fisher- duties as the 48th Attorney Gen- He is now the head of the Civil eral Govern- day requested the public to act and social respon- men’s Association President eral of Sri Lanka. The Parliamen- Division of the Attorney Gener- ment Institu- in accordance with the health sibility of the peo- Thangavelayutham Kamal said that tary Council has unanimously al’s Department. tions includ- regulations considering the criti- ple, he said. three fishermen who went to sea on approved the appointment of Act- He is a Solicitor of England and ing the Financial Intelligence Unit cal stage the country is in due to Although every- Sunday (23) from Trincomalee did ing Solicitor General Sanjay Raja- Wales and also holds a Master of of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka the alarming spread of the one may have not return. ratnam as the new Attorney Gen- Laws (Merit) from the Queen and was a member of the Cabinet COVID-19 pandemic. some personal dif- The missing are Sanjeevan (21), eral. Mary University of London. He appointed Committee of Officials, Dr. Pathirana was responding to a ficulty with using credit cards and Jeevaretnam Saranraj (34) and Rajaratnam who has a career was conferred Silk in November examining Bills prior to being journalist at a media briefing at the ATMs these days, the public should Sivasubramaniam Nathusan (21) span of 34 years in the Attorney 2014. presented in Parliament. He is Government Information Depart- try to put up with the difficulties from Tirukkadalur. General’s Department had joined He has wide experience in the also a member of the Law Com- ment. caused by the restrictions, Minister About 10 boats had been dis- the profession in April, 1988. civil and criminal branches of the mission of Sri Lanka and the Although there are clear regula- Pathirana said. patched by the fellow fishermen to He held the post of Senior State law and regularly appeared in the Council of Legal Education. tions regarding the use of vehicles He said that ignoring the regula- search for the missing fishermen. Counsel, Deputy Solicitor Gener- Superior Courts. He was educated at St. Peter’s and traffic restrictions, a large num- tions and restrictions means that a He said that the Navy and the al, Additional Solicitor General He has appeared for several College and Royal College, ber of vehicles were seen in Colombo clear problem of controlling the dis- Department of Fisheries were and Senior Additional Solicitor notable and high profile cases and Colombo. yesterday, Dr. Pathirana said. ease will arise in the near future. informed about the incident. Two suspects arrested with counterfeit currency notes

SHAVINI MADHARA Two persons were arrested by the Divisional Crime Detective Bureau of Gampaha along with counterfeit notes amounting to nearly Rs.200,000, Police Media Spokesperson DIG Ajith Rohana said. He said that the Police recov- ered four Rs.5,000 counterfeit notes, 133 Rs 1,000 notes, 71 Rs.100 notes and 747 Rs.50 notes at the suspects’ temporary lodge in Ambalanmulla, Seedu- wa. Apart from that, the Police Officers also found a scanner, two computers, two mobile phones and several equipment along with the suspects. The 20 and 44 years old sus- pects are residents of Gampaha The Police Officers inspecting the fake currency notes. and Meethotamulla, Police said.

Boossa Prison reports 60 COVID cases

MAHINDA P. LIYANAGE, Galle were conducted on 69 and Matara are sent to the Central Special Corr. inmates and the reports on Boossa prison for quaran- Sixty inmates on quaran- Sunday stated that 60 had tine before sending them to tine at the Boossa Prison tested COVID positive, the jails. tested positive for COVID, sources said. Four special wards have Boossa Prison sources said. The detainees who are been set up at the Boossa On May 18, PCR tests referred by Courts in Galle Prison for them.

Mound collapses on two houses in Watawala

ASELA KURULUWANSA Two houses had been heavily damaged when a mound col- lapsed on line houses at the Welioya Estate in the Watawala Police area in heavy rains on Monday. Several rocks had also fallen on the houses. The area has been isolated due to the spread The damaged houses. of COVID-19.

A large number of vehicles entered the Batticaloa city when travel restrictions were relaxed yesterday. Many vehicles that entered without a valid reason were turned back by police. Here Police Officers cautioning drivers and motorcyclists near the Kallady Bridge in Batticaloa. Picture by Sivam Packiyanathan, Batticaloa Special Corr. DN page 4 neWs Feature Wednesday, May 26, 2021

A scaled-down lantern festival was livestreamed from Jogyesa Buddhist Temple in Seoul, South Korea, for Vesak. Celebrating the serenity oF Vesak

Singapore Minister for Culture, Community and Youth Edwin Tong performing the ritual of bathing Prince Siddhartha during a aMidst the pandeMiC visit to the Singapore Buddhist Federation on Sunday. With him is the Venerable Kwang Phing, President of the Federation. his marks the second year that Buddhists around the world will celebrate Vesak, T a holiday commemorating the Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and final passing into parinirvana, under the confines of pandemic life. Similar to Vesak 2020, many coun- tries and Buddhist temples have opted for scaled-down or online versions of the traditional events, which include prayer, chanting, the lighting of candles and paper lan- terns, and the offering of gifts. In Thailand, where the Buddha’s birthday, or ‘Visakha Bucha Day’, falls today, religious activities will follow strict Covid-19 preventative measures, according to the Bang- The Buddha preached the Ratana Sutta in Vaishali, which had faced evil, famine kok Post. Thailand’s Minister of and pestilence The Ratana Sutta being chanted at the SLBC Culture, Ittipol Khunplome, has encouraged Buddhists to celebrate is also known in Tibetan as Bum- Indian High Commis- Visakha Bucha Day via online cere- gyur Dawa, “the 100,000-multiply- sion in Colombo. “We monies hosted by the Department ing month,” as karma from all skill- have extremely strong of Religious Affairs and a network ful and unskillful actions is believed ties with India, and of Buddhist leaders from May 20 to to be multiplied 100,000 times. Buddhism came to Sri 26. This year, Saga Dawa runs from Lanka from India. Culture Minister Ittipol Khun- May12 to June 10, with Saga Dawa That is specifically plome has revealed that the resur- Duchen, the single most important the reason why we gence of Covid-19 has again put a day of the year for Tibetan Bud- decided to air the limit on Visakha Bucha Day reli- dhists, commemorating the birth, chantings for gious activities, hosted annually by enlightenment, and final passing India,” Liyanage said. the Department of Religious Affairs into parinirvana of Shakyamuni With the ongoing Rocana Buddha, South Korea (DRA) in cooperation with the Buddha, falling on May 26, the full Covid-19 pandemic, clergy and other public and private moon day. The occasion is also activities for Vesak Day, which falls businesses. known around the world as Buddha today (26), will again have to be To help flatten the curve of the Purnima and Vesak in other Bud- scaled down and moved online. contagion, this year’s activities dhist traditions and following dif- Prior to the pandemic, the day of today (26) will now strictly follow ferent calendars. The event is open celebration for Buddhists would preventive measures from the Min- to all, with translations offered in see many flock to temples, engag- istry of Public Health. Buddhists Chinese, French, German, ing in a day of prayers and offer- are thereby encouraged to partici- Buddhist rituals being performed in Singapore Portuguese, Russian and Spanish. ings. pate in Visakha Bucha Day 2021 In Fukui, Japan, a priest has Last year, Singapore was in its ‘new normally’ via online platforms. nity adhered to Covid-19 precau- In a white paper titled “Tibet revived attendance at his small tem- circuit breaker period on Vesak The Minister also addressed the tions when it celebrated the Bud- Since 1951: Liberation, Develop- ple by giving his services a modern Day, which became a muted affair. ongoing cooperation between the dha’s birthday on May 19, Yonhap ment and Prosperity,” released on twist: techno music and light In the light of safe distancing DRA and a network of clergy to News Agency reported. President Friday, the Chinese government shows. Though he was passionate measures again this year, the Sin- host online activities from May 20 Moon Jae-in expressed his gratitude said it must approve any successor about DJing in his youth, Gyosen gapore Buddhist Federation has to 26 to promote understanding of to the Buddhist community for to the Dalai Lama – and that Tibet Asakura eventually followed in his put together a livestream for devo- the essence of Buddhism. Religious deciding to cancel the annual lotus has been a part of China for centu- family’s footsteps and became a tees so they can view the prayers practices, such as making offerings lantern festival, Yeon Deung Hoe, a ries, India’s Economic 17th-generation priest. Now, he’s and activities remotely today. to the Buddha, will be broadcast decision made more difficult due to Times reports. When the current found a way to combine his love for Minister for Culture, Communi- live on the NBT channel from Wat the festival’s recent listing as a Dalai Lama, the 14th generation of music with his religious life. “The ty and Youth Edwin Tong visited Gyosen Asakura, the DJ priest Phra Chetuphon Vimolmangklara- UNESCO event of Intangible Cul- a lineage that dates back to 1642, main teaching of Buddhism is noth- the Federation at its premises in rm today (26) from 8.30 pm to 9.00 tural Heritage. “It’s natural wanting dies, regents – typically the Dalai ing will remain. Everything will Geylang on Sunday. India. During the webinar, Ambas- pm, along with the chanting of Bud- to celebrate the feat, but the Bud- Lama’s disciples – will begin search- change. So, I thought the tradi- In a Facebook post, he said he sador of India to Cambodia Dr. dhist mantras and traditional can- dhist community decided to cancel ing for his reincarnation, following tional way of teaching must change had visited to explain the current Devyani Khobragade stressed the dle-lit temple walks. this year’s lantern festival and hold the guidance of oracles and omens as well,” Asakura told the Indianap- situation to the Federation and to importance of Vesak Day for the Organisers have put together an an online event instead,” President from religious leaders. As the Dalai olis-based TV station WTHR. “Tra- thank them for their understanding Buddhist community all over the online exhibition of the Buddha’s Moon said in a message shared on Lama ages (he is currently 85 years ditionally, the temple would try to and leadership. world. life. Thus Buddhists at home can social media. old), the subject of his successor recreate the world of light with gold “A regular Vesak Day would usu- “The United Nations at the 54th still join Visakha Bucha Day cele- Although South Korean Bud- has become particularly pressing. decorations. So, the traditional ally see thousands of Buddhists session of UN General Assembly in brations through the Stay Home, dhists could not gather in Seoul for The Tergar Meditation Commu- music can change. Suiting the visit the temples, engaged in a day 1999 had recognised Vesak as an Make Merit app. Essential doc- the festival, they will be able to visit nity, founded by the respected music to the modern generation.” of prayers and offerings, perform- International Day of Obser- trines, insights and sermons from a rare Buddha for the first time. A Dharma teacher and master of the ing Three Step One Bow proces- vance. The teachings of Buddha several monks of repute are also giant scroll painting of Rocana Bud- Karma Kagyu and Nyingma lineag- Prayers and sion, Light Transference ceremony, have brought people together featured on the platform. Visitors dha travelled from its permanent es of Tibetan Buddhism Yongey and the bathing of Prince Siddhar- across social, generational, cultural can write down their resolutions to home at the Sinwon Temple in Mingyur Rinpoche, has announced support for India tha. This year, however, these and national divides especially in perform good deeds using the Bud- South Chungcheong to be dis- a special online Saga Dawa com- On Wednesday, India reported activities will again have to be these challenging times of the dha’s teachings as guidance. Can- played at the National Museum of munity celebration to be led by 4,529 deaths from Covid-19 in 24 scaled down and also moved Covid-19 pandemic,” she said. dle-lit temple walks can be safely Korea in central Seoul, just in time Rinpoche on May 29. hours – a new global high as the online,” he said. She highlighted the ancient con- joined online. To support the con- for the Buddha’s birthday. Accord- Saga Dawa (Skt: Vaishakha), the country’s second wave continues to “I know many people seek solace nections between India and Cam- tinued promotion of Buddhism, a ing to Korea JoongAng Daily, the fourth month in the Tibetan lunar rage. However, as the New York in religion, and I hope that we will bodia and India’s efforts to take its Visakha Bucha Day E-Booklet is gigantic 17th-century painting calendar, is the most important Times has reported, this number be able to overcome this recent relationship with Southeast Asian available at no cost on the Stay (32.8 feet high and 21 feet wide) – Buddhist religious and cultural doesn’t even represent the real toll spate of infections, and resume countries, including Cambodia, to Home, Make Merit app, DRA’s and Korea’s National Treasure No. event of the year. The name is because so many cases and some degree of community events new heights through Buddhist link- Facebook page, and www.dra.co.th. 299 – will be on display until Sep- derived from the clan name of fatalities don’t get reported. In again. Venerable Seck Kwang ages. South Korea’s Buddhist commu- tember 26. Shakyamuni Buddha. The occasion response to the surge, Phing, President of the Singapore “As heirs to these ancient civili- neighboring Bhutan has pledged Buddhist Federation, showed me sations and religion, our countries Buddhist prayers and liquid oxygen their livestream set-up, which was have a lot to offer to the rest of the to India. On May 12, the Zhung put together by their millennial world in the form of culture and Dratshang, Bhutan’s central Bud- generation. Devotees can now view learning,” she added. dhist monastic body, offered 1,000 livestreams of the prayers and Dr. Khobragade also outlined butter lamps and prayers to Covid activities, or watch and pray with some of the initiatives that the victims, specifically those in India. the recorded prayers services at Indian government has been under- On May 15, King Jigme Khesar their convenience,” he said. taking, such as working on the Namgyel Wangchuck visited the Those who wish to view the Buddhist circuit, organising inter- oxygen plant that will supply 40 streams may register via the Fed- national Buddhist conferences, metric tons of liquid oxygen per eration’s page on Facebook offering scholarships to Cambodi- day to Assam. Meanwhile, the Sri or through its website. an students and monks in Nalanda Lanka Broadcasting Corporation The Embassy of India in Phnom University on Buddhist Studies as started airing the Ratana Sutta, Penh, in collaboration with Preah well as organising online ITEC known as the ‘Jewel Discourse’, to Sihanouk Raja Buddhist University courses on Buddhism and Vipas- bless India’s Covid victims last (SBU), hosted a webinar discus- sana and more. She highlighted week. Though the Sutta has been sion on Sunday, about Buddhism in India’s resolve to continue foster- airing since October 2020, SLBC Cambodia and Southeast Asia to ing strong Buddhist linkages Director General Chandrapala celebrate Vesak Day and the 130th between India and Buddhist coun- Liyanage said last week that they anniversary of the birth of Dr. B.R. tries through various bilateral, mul- have entered a second phase of the Ambedkar, considered the chief tilateral and public and private ini- Zhung Dratshang, Bhutan programme in partnership with the architect of the Constitution of tiatives. (Tricycle, Agencies) wednesday, may 26, 2021 news page 5 DN WHO provides over 340 MT of essential CMC launches Batik Vesak supplies to South-East Asian countries WHO has provided over have reached 26 States The rapid deployment of 340 MT of essential medi- and Union Territories, these life-saving medicines cal supplies and medicines within days of a major and medical supplies is and continues to mobilise consignment of medical vital to WHO’s ongoing Lantern Exhibition more to fill critical gaps to equipment landing in New health emergency response support countries across Delhi. efforts, Dr, Khetrapal The Batik, Handloom South-East Asia Region “These supplies will Singh said. textiles and local apparel respond to the rapid surge help meet immediate Earlier, WHO provided production State Ministry in COVID-19 cases, needs while countries 43 metric tonnes of sup- has organised a Batik “Thousands of oxygen make long term arrange- plies including PPEs, diar- Vesak Lantern exhibition concentrators, testing kits, ments,” the Regional rheal disease kits, tents, jointly with the Colombo hospital beds, tents and Director said. Last week, pulse oximeter, infrared Municipal Council personal protective equip- 4,000 oxygen concentra- thermometers and field (CMC) at the Municipal ment are among critical tors, over 120 tents, 400 deployment kits to Timor- Council for a week start- supplies being shipped to medical beds for mobile Leste to respond to pan- ing today. countries and rushed to hospitals, 1.2 million respi- demic and floods that hit The Ministry said that areas where they are need- rator masks, and 650,000 the island country last it was planned as a lan- ed the most,” WHO disposable sampling kits month. tern contest, but given South-East Asia Regional were flown into Delhi. Jointly assessing needs the situation in the coun- Director Dr. Poonam Most recently, WHO has and gaps with countries in try, it has been limited to Khetrapal Singh said. rushed 60 metric tonnes of the Region, WHO is bring- an exhibition with the In India, which in recent much needed diarrheal ing in more supplies in the help of social, print and weeks accounted for a disease kits, and Personal coming weeks for Nepal, electronic media for the large proportion of global Protective Equipment Bhutan, Maldives and Sri people staying at home. cases, essential supplies (PPEs) to Bangladesh. Lanka. Batik, Handloom Tex- State Minister Dayasiri Jayasekera presenting a batik lantern to Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa. tiles and Local Apparel Production State Minis- presented a batik lantern da Rajapaksa at Temple The idea behind the exhi- local batik industry, he ter Dayasiri Jayasekara to Prime Minister Mahin- Trees to mark the event. bition is to promote the said.

UNP questions Government’s Immediate family members decision to limit PCR tests The United National require a doctor’s prescrip- of frontline workers should be Party (UNP) has ques- tion to undergo a test that tioned the Government on is a precautionary meas- the decision to limit PCR ure?” he asked. vaccinated – Minister Dr. Pathirana tests at private hospitals. The General-Secretary UNP General Secretary questioned whether the AMALi MALLAwAARAchchi He was responding to cination for all these Palitha Range Bandara, Government was attempt- The Government is a journalist regarding the workers and their family speaking to the media at ing to downplay the figures willing to administer strike by several trade members. However, we People in Kaduwela buy vegetables during the relaxation of travel restrictions yesterday. Sirikotha, questioned the of the COVID-19 patients COVID-19 jabs to the unions of the Health Ser- are short of vaccine sup- Picture by Sulochana Gamage Government’s recent deci- by reducing the number of immediate family mem- vice claiming that there plies and that has forced sion to limit the availability tests. He drew attention to bers of all frontline work- is unfair treatment in the us to prioritise. When of PCR tests at private hos- the recent Cabinet propos- ers who are fighting the vaccination programme we have adequate vac- pitals. He explained that al by the Government to pandemic, Co-cabinet implemented for the cine supplies, we will Sri Lanka is amid a third buy 227 luxury vehicles. Spokesperson Minister immediate family mem- vaccinate all these work- wave of the COVID-19 pan- “At a time that the coun- Dr. Ramesh Pathirana bers of selected groups ers,” Minister Dr. Pathi- demic, so it is essential try’s economy is strug- said. of health workers. rana said. that the public be encour- gling, is this necessary? Minister Dr. Pathirana “Not only the family “Our policy is to vacci- aged to undergo PCR tests During the UNP tenure in said that the only reason members of the front- nate as many as possi- to ensure the spread of the Government, we distribut- that keeps the Govern- line health workers, but ble. We have opted for virus. ed 152 luxury ambulances ment from initiating the also other public serv- Sinopharm because “In other countries, citi- to hospitals around the move is the limit in vac- ants such as District there is a shortage of zens are encouraged to country; separately we ini- cine supplies. Secretaries, Divisional AstraZeneca. There is a undergo PCR tests, howev- tiated the 1990 Suwaseriya Minister Dr. Pathirana Secretaries, Grama 600,000 shortage of er, in Sri Lanka the Gov- Ambulance Service. These was speaking at the Cab- Niladharis and Samur- AstraZeneca dose for ernment has discouraged are the measures that the inet media briefing at dhi Niladharis work at the second dose. We them by making it more Government should take as the Government Infor- the frontline. The Gov- must buy available vac- A large number of vehicles entered Delgoda when the travel restrictions were relaxed difficult to obtain a test. examples of good govern- mation Department yes- ernment has undertood cines,” the Minister yesterday despite the public being asked to walk to the nearest shop to buy essentials. Long Why would patients ance,” he said. terday. the need to provide vac- said. queues were also seen at ATM machines. Picture by Sudath Pubudu Keerthi, Delgoda Group Corr. Malaysia tightens entry for South Asians Malaysians and travel- The 21-day quarantine The National Security extended from 10 days lers from Sri Lanka, order that has already Council special (NSC) to 14, and they are to be Bangladesh, Nepal and been imposed on Malay- meeting, which had placed at quarantine sta- Pakistan who have been sians and non-citizen decided to tighten SOP tions. given the permission to travellers from India for travellers, also set “The 14-day quaran- enter the country will who are permitted to that travellers are to do tine period will be now undergo an extend- enter the country RT-PCR COVID-19 test extended for another ed mandatory quaran- remains, he said. three days before they seven days (bringing the tine period of 21 days. “The extension in the depart for Malaysia and quarantine days to 21) This is an additional number of days required that only those whose should there be a need The Embassy staff symbolically handing 60 Oximeters over to health Ministry Officials. seven days from the 14 for them to be quaran- results are negative can for it. This will be based days quarantine imposed tined is extended con- board the flight. on a risk assessment on travellers from these sidering the COVID-19 All travellers are carried out on the 14th Embassy donates 60 Oximeters countries. situation worldwide required to also do the day,” he said. Senior Minister Datuk where more than 50 per RT-PCR test upon arriv- Health authorities will The Embassy of Sri through the Foreign Minis- as a part of the 2021 Vesak Durre Sammen Al Droubi, Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob cent of the nations are al at Malaysia’s interna- carry out a RT-PCR test Lanka to Lebanon and try. These machines will be programme. Ambassador Entrepreneur Malkanthi said that they are to be reporting the spreading tional entry points. on the 10th day of quar- Syria, with the help of a made available for patients Shani Calyaneratne Silva and Rathnadeepa quarantined at govern- of variant of concern Ismail Sabri said that antine and if it is few well–wishers, donated at the hospitals run by the Karunaratne, Embassy International Migrant Soci- ment designated sta- (VOC) within the com- the quarantine period extended, another test 60 Optimal Fingertip Pulse Health Ministry. staff, Honorary Consul Dr. ety President Kusum Kosi- tions throughout the munity, ” he said on for travellers from all will be carried out on Oximeters to Sri Lanka The donation was made Moussalam Al Droubi, kara participated. period. Monday (May 24). countries has also been the 18th day. - The Star

MoU between pare a Draft Bill in this Open University regard. Kandy Girls High School Tea estate and South Korea National Open Regulations University under Imports and OGA donates Exports (Control) owners in The Open University Hospital in of Sri Lanka and the sis Disease (NCD) facili- Act No. 1 of 1969 Korea National Open Mulleriyawa ties with a donation of It has been observed COVID protective University of South The Colombo East the International Lions’ that some vehicle import- jeopardy without Korea have entered into Base Hospital in Muller- Club’s 306 C1 District. ers acquire a special an agreement to develop iyawa supplies a number The Cabinet granted advantage by registering equipment the association in the of secondary health ser- approval to the proposal the imported mobile Open and Distance Edu- vices to a large number submitted by the Health workshop vehicles as dual- fertiliser J.M.hAFEEZ, cation, Capacity Devel- of Public per day while Minister to sign a Mem- purpose vehicles. Teaching Hospital yester- opment, Information and the hospital provides all orandum of Understand- Considering the recom- Akurana Group corr. day. MAhiNDA P. LiyANAgE, were plucked from an Communication Technol- the medical, surgical, ing (MoU) between the mendations furnished by Under the first phase, a Galle Central Special Corr. acre. Now not even 300 ogy, Usage of Laboratory gynaecological as well as Health Ministry and the Committee on Public The Kandy Girls High stock of items worth Rs. kilos of tea leaves can be Facilities, Research and pediatric specialist med- District 306 C1 of the Accounts in this connec- School Old Girls' Associa- 500,000 was donated by Tea estate owners are plucked, he said. Publications as and staff ical services. International Lions’ tion, the regulations for tion (OGA) has initiated a Principal Malkanthi Abey- facing many hardships “During the first coro- exchange programmes. In addition, it has Club to implement the introducing a new harmo- programme to hand over gunasekara and OGA due to the lack of fertilis- na wave, export earnings The Cabinet have grant- been planned to newly project. nised system categorised COVID-19 protective Members to Peradeniya er in the market, Galle came from tea. We ed approval to the reso- establish national stroke code for allowing the equipment worth over Rs. Teaching Hospital Director and Kalutara Estate request the President to lution by the Education centres, second level Amending Ceylon imports based on equal 1 million to the Peradeniya Dr. Arjuna Tilakaratne. Owners' Association reconsider the chemical Minister to sign a Mem- emergency accidents life span and for charging President Shantha Gami- fertiliser ban. We do not orandum of Understand- and medication unit, Petroleum equal custom tax for dual ni Liyanage said. oppose organic farming. ing (MoU) in this Intensive Care Unit Corporation Act purpose vehicles and Because of this short- But an immediate out- regard. (ICU), Neonatal Inten- No. 28 of 1961 mobile workshop vehicles age, the tea harvest has come cannot be expected sive Care Unit (NICU), Since certain provi- have been declared in the decreased and the from it. An alternative Fully–fledged and the Simulation Cen- sions of Ceylon Petrole- gazette notification of income of the tea plant- programme should be tre. um Corporation Act No. April 23, 2020 as per the ers has decreased by introduced in this regard. Blood Filter Unit Apart from that, it has 28 of 1961 already in provisions of Imports and about 60 per cent, he The problems should be and Chronic Kidney been proposed to estab- effect is insufficient to Exports (Control) Act No. said at a press briefing addressed immediately, Disease (CKD) lish 12 fully–fledged cater the present require- 1 of 1969. in Galle recently. Estate Owners' Associa- Clinic with Non- blood filters and a fully– ments, the Cabinet The Cabinet granted About three million tion President Shantha communicable fledged blood filter unit approved the proposal by approval for the resolution people depend on the tea Gamini Liyanage said. with all required surgi- the Power Minister to by the Prime Minister as industry. Galle and Kalutara Diagnosis Disease cal equipment and a revise the Act including the Finance Minister to A large number of peo- Estate Owners' Associa- (NCD) facilities at Chronic Kidney Disease the amendments in this table the regulations at ple now have lost their tion Committee Member Colombo East Base (CKD) Clinic with Non– regard to instruct the Parliament to obtain its income. Earlier about Janaka Jayaneththi communicable Diagno- Legal Draftsman to pre- approval. 800 kilos of tea leaves spoke. Principal Malkanthi Abeygunasekara making the donation. DN page 6 edITORIaL Wednesday, may 26, 2021

Wednesday, m ay 26, 2021 enLIghTenIng Vesak reflections dhammapada fOR aLL TImes he COVID pandemic notwithstanding, Sri Lanka’s cultural life being such, we are focusing today on Tthe celebration of Vesak, the most sacred day of the calendar for Buddhists around the world. The dis- passionate pragmatism that is a characteristic of the Dhamma, however, enables us to conceive of and prac- tice the celebration of this sacred moment in accord- ance with the realities of life around us for the second year in a row. There is no distraction by fond desires for the biggest pandal, or the most colourful lanterns or the most attended Dan Sal. We are too aware of the ominous ambience of our national and global context today to be carried away by our inclinations to flamboyance and flaunt pietism. As at yesterday evening, the total number of positive cases in the country reached 167,000, with 1,243 deaths. The spread of the contagion has been very fast in recent weeks and has reached nearly all parts of the island beyond the original ‘hotspots’ of the Western Province. Right now, the country is undergoing a period of travel restrictions. The most dangerous concentrations of the virus remain in the metropolitan urban areas because of the popula- tion densities and rapid mass transit of people both of which are the prime modes of the deadly contagion. It is the rapidity of the virus transmission that is of the greatest concern because of the threat of over-burden- ing the medical care system. Generally, once the medi- cal response capacity is overwhelmed, there is nothing to halt any viral disease from striking deep into the population. What with the experience of travel restrictions across the island as well as the news reports of the global COVID- 19 devastation even among the most affluent and best- equipped countries, no one wants things to get worse. thing is subject to decay, the person is While some selfish individuals may complain about wiser than he happens to be. This is movement restrictions and lack of entertainment, the explained in Jara Vagga. vast majority of Sri Lankans have too much of a sense The Jara Vagga (Old Age) describes various forms of human life. It can of community responsibility to behave carelessly. also be considered one of the finest Vesak normally means the gathering of vast crowds to poetry found in the Dhammapada. If a view the festive décor and lavish installations on the person can understand the state of one hand, involving the transit of literally hundreds of decay, they can understand the grave thousands of people both in the main metro areas as conscience of the world. That is where well as in the provinces. On the other hand, even rural Prof. SuNaNDa MaheNDra the Loka Vagga fits in. The one who communities see gatherings of people in temples and In Bala Vagga, the next canton, the understands the world is a person he Buddha has observed a central subject comes as the state of who does it not through his physical market places. greater vision in his eter- ignorance. The persons who are not eye, but through the mental eye. Can Usually, by now, the wooden frames of pandals are nal message. That is now literate may harm others. The the world be likened to mirages? Or is already being erected with the colourful scene panels. T available as a collection of unlearned may harm others. Such a it just magical? If the person can This year, hawkers selling Vesak cards and lanterns stanzas widely known as the Dham- person is harmful. Ignorance is a born understand that this is an illusion, were hard hit due to the lack of customers. In many rural mapada. Since the scholars and read- quality. People, who are fools, gradu- such a person understands the world. homes the raw materials for lantern-making would be ers have read the Dhammapada over ally become wise. Once ignorance is He is free from Mara (the Spectre of readied for that fun-filled Vesak-eve family chore. the years, what is given below is sim- eradicated, there comes wisdom. This Death). ply an overview. is captured in the Panditha Vagga. Then comes the Buddha Vagga. The In any normal year, local temples would be teeming with The Dhammapada is the noble col- This is interpretative in terms of the term Prabuddha is explained here, activity in preparations for the Sil, Bana, and Bhavana lection and the penetrative vision of social sciences. There are about 10 to which is the highest Enlightenment. If (Meditation) programmes and selected public areas the Buddha’s teachings. It is found in 15 stanzas in the Panditha Vagga. Who a human being can achieve this would be readied for Bhakthi Gee (devotional songs) Khuddaka Nikaya of the Sutta Pitaka. is a wise person or Pandit? It is a ques- Prabuddha status, that is the greatest and street-side dramas depicting the Buddha’s life. The Buddha’s teachings are catego- tion being asked now – is he or she a human feat. Happiness is a widely But into our second year of the pandemic, we know that rized into 26 Vaggas (cantons) expand- well-versed person or a person who has discussed subject. What is happening ed in the verse form. Verses are 423 in extensively read classics or transcend- is that we fail to understand happi- none of this can and should happen, at least nowhere number. ed a mere education? He becomes a ness. The Buddha offers wisdom on near the usual scale of things. Piety there will be, but it For a discerning reader or a student greater man or woman than the aver- happiness. has to be in the smallest possible gatherings and pref- of the doctrine, the Dhammapada also age person. “Sukho Buddhanam uppado. erably in the quiet privacy of our homes or local neigh- offers the birth stories or the Nidhana Then comes the Arahanta Vagga, the Sukha Saddhammadesana. bourhoods. Certainly, the faithful community will light Katha with each stanza. This is the culmination of the wise man. In 10 Sukha sanghassa samaggi. lanterns in their homes and local temples, but we cannot commentary that came to be known as one of the happiest people on Earth. stanzas, the state of the Arahant is Samagganam tapo sukho.” and should not traipse the roads to view them en masse. Dhammapadatta Katha, translated into That can be taken as Amatapadan. elaborated. A person who has achieved “Happy is the arising of the Bud- Sinhala or adapted into the Sinhala Those who are vigilant and wise are the state of the supramundane can dhas in the world. The Ministry of Health in collaboration with the Buddha language by the Saddharmaratnavaliya happier than others. The man may be investigate the mind. The level of Happy is the teaching of pure Sasana Ministry has issued a set of guidelines to be fol- author Venerable Dharmasena Thera. very silent. But he may be a far-reach- existence of such a person is so bless- Dhamma. lowed by the public and the Maha Sangha in the obser- Furthermore, there are 301 profiles, ing person than others. The saints, ed. Objectives of all human beings are Happy is the coming together of vance of Vesak this year. The instructions have been tales, parables, wise sayings and links prophets, artists, in this direction, woven around this. The Buddha main- meditators. issued in order to safeguard the populace from the to actual social events. The reader make use of this observation. tained that a thousand futile sayings Happiness is meditating together.” COVID-19 pandemic. comes across not only human but also The Citta Vagga is centred on mind- become unwanted in the presence of Combined with Buddha Vagga is The communiqué urges the public to engage in ‘Aamisa’ superhuman gods and goddesses as ful behaviour. The Chitta Vagga is all one fulfilled saying. This philosophy is Sukha Vagga, the canton on pleasant- well as the demons and Pretas and about the mind. For an ordinary per- unearthed in the Sahassa Vagga. ness. Any person can eradicate anger. and ‘Prathipaththi’ Pooja centred around the home as perhaps in some of the fairytales and son, it is only a state of the mind. And Then comes the dismal world. In the That is the key to happiness. much as possible while maintaining social distancing. fantasies, some fairies. But unlike the for the scholar, it may be a well-formu- Papa Vagga, the sinful states are The philosophical elements are Temples are encouraged to use public address systems mere fantasy or a fairytale, these are lated compendium of psychological explained verse by verse. The suffering interlinked. The ingredients that go to to broadcast Pirith chanting and Bana rather than linked to particular human events that attitudes. The scrutiny of these poems stems from the guilt of one’s own the making of a Bhikkhu or a proper attract large crowds into temple precincts or public transcend the mere tales of fantasy. or stanzas in the Chitta Vagga can be actions. A man who does evil things Brahmana are the ultimatum of the areas. Moreover, television and radio channels will The profiles of the characters por- considered a serious study. They are tends to suffer to a definitive conclu- collection. Brahmana is not a person. trayed in the Dhammapada reiterate metaphysical in spirit. Metaphorical sion. Murderers and robbers are a case He is not superhuman either. He has broadcast Vesak programmes produced in line with the the actual happenings of a distant past. for all times. in point. Who is this sinner? A man achieved a new lifestyle. The words of health guidelines for those observing ‘Sil’ at home and They have taken place during the life- Cittassa damatho sadhu who stops this inner urge is a purified Jawaharlal Nehru need to be reread in other devotees. time of the Buddha. The times and Cittam dantam sukhavaham person. conclusion: Buddhists throughout the world will be observing the central experiences that are retold by It is good to tame the mind, for a Then comes the Danda Vagga which “In this world of storm and strife, Vesak Festival in a similarly moderate manner. Most the Buddha go back to several pasts well-tamed mind brings happiness. explains how a punishment should be hatred and violence, the message of Vesak observations will be held online in many coun- and births of particular individuals as This is the ideal ideology for all. given and decided by any human the Buddha shines like a radiant sun. tries. Most likely, Buddhist charities will focus on special found in the Nidhana Kathas or the Various events in this human life are being. Thus, the concept of punish- Perhaps at no time was that message past stories. reached into a superhuman state or ment in varying forms comes to stay in more needed than in the world of the programmes of support for pandemic affected sections The 26 Vaggas or cantons in the supramundane state as a result of men- the Danda Vagga. The punishment is atomic and hydrogen bombs. Two of the population such as low income groups whose Dhammapada are carefully and metic- tal development. interpreted in many ways. He who thousand five hundred years have only livelihoods have been abruptly suspended. There are ulously arranged, expressing the teach- Then comes the Puppha Vagga. One punishes does not know. How very added to the vitality and truth of that many such neighbourhoods with whole families ren- ings of the Buddha. These are arranged of the finest attitudes of human beings skillful it is to know the person called message. Let us remember that dered destitute due to this. Rather than the usual mil- meticulously in order of the views of is compared to flowers. Flowers mean I. immortal message and try to fashion lions gifted for lavish Vesak décor, perhaps the Daana human beings for all times. purity, brightness, fusion and so on. “I did it.” our thoughts and actions in the light of that teaching. We may face with (Alms) could be in the form of food supplies and other The first Vagga, Yamaka or the vers- But flowers also disseminate the finest “I wrote it.” es of stanzas, explain the inner mean- spirit. A disciple in training will inves- “I am angry.” equanimity even the terrors of the domestic essentials for these pandemic-affected fellow ing in two ways. If a house is ill- tigate the well-taught Path of Virtue You tend to suffer yourself. So you atomic bomb age and help a little in Sri Lankans. thatched, the rains will penetrate it. If even as an expert (garland-maker) will punish yourself. Nature punishes us promoting right thinking and right In all, the observance of Vesak this year too will be his- a roof is well thatched, nothing of that pick flowers. for all our black deeds. When every- action.” toric for its special practice of piety in a time of a pan- sort will happen. Similarly, a human demic. After all, the Buddha preached the immortal being ill-thatched or likely to be ill- words “Arogya Parama Labha” which means that one’s thatched with desires, agonies and anger, will be compared to the house. health is the greatest wealth. The Buddha also sur- This is one of the finest parables I have mised that treating the sick equals treating the Buddha heard. The house is taken as a meta- himself. Thus there are many lessons that can be drawn phor. Now, the closest approach of a from Buddhism as we face this contagion. well-thatched house needs to be ana- lysed. In the second canton, titled Appam- ada Vagga, which means heedfulness, a THOUGHT fOr THe day person must pay heed at all points. Appamado Amatapadan may mean that if a person is peaceful, he will Not to do evil, to cultivate merit, to purify one's achieve the state of deathlessness. mind - this is the Teaching of the Buddhas. What does deathlessness mean? It is (Dhammapada, Verse 183) not merely driving off or postponing death. When a person is heedful, he is Wednesday, May 26, 2021 OPInIOn page 7 Dn COlOMbO POrt CIty grOOMIng Itself fOr InvestOrs much improved version of the land- mark Colombo Port City legisla- tion sailed through Parliament Acomfortably last week after a heat- ed two-day debate that stole the limelight even amidst the raging COVID-19 pandem- ic in the country. The legislative framework of the coun- try’s first service-oriented Special Econom- ic Zone (SEZ) will be done and dusted once Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena places his signature to it after incorporating the many Amendments presented at its Third Justice Minister ali Sabry Reading in Parliament. From the First Reading in Parliament on April 8, it took only six weeks for the Colombo Port City Economic Commission Bill to materialize. The Supreme Court after scrutinizing the constitutionality of the Bill, pursuant to petitions filed by vari- a model of colombo port city ous concerned parties and individuals, pro- posed a series of Amendments, and the Weerasekara and ‘Ape Jana Bala Pakshaya’ Rameshwaram and SJB MP Mujibar Rahu- Government readily incorporated all of MP Ven. Athuraliye Rathana Thera, voted man also tested positive for COVID-19 last them to tie up the loose ends of the Bill. for the Bill, whereas the Tamil National Alli- week. All of them are now under quaran- Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa mov- ance (TNA) Members, including MP M. A. tine. ing the Bill for debate stated that the prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa moving Sumanthiran, known to have federalist amended Bill would mention that at least 75 the colombo port city bill for debate in views, voted against it. High-level engagements percent of the job opportunities generated parliament Chinese Foreign Minister Wang yi The Opposition Members were active in the Colombo Port City should be during the debate airing their concerns on In the meantime, the media recently reserved for Sri Lankans. Determined to shift the Port City Pro- the Bill, including its lack of provisions for revealed that arrangements were being The Port City Economic Commission ject to the next gear, the Government Parliamentary Oversight into affairs of made for an official visit of Chinese Foreign can relax this condition when and called on international investors to con- the Port City and discrimination to local Minister Wang Yi to Sri Lanka next month, where necessary. sider Sri Lanka’s strategic location, low investors and customers, also complaining as part of an Asian tour he has already Following the enactment of this tax regime and one-stop-shop clearance that the Government was rushing the Bill planned. The official confirmation of the piece of law, President Gotabaya Raja- on offer to connect with the emerging through Parliament. The main Opposition visit is yet to be made by the authorities of paksa is expected to name the high- business hub in South Asia. The authori- Party, the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), either country. He previously visited Sri powered five to seven Member Eco- ties have also begun airing a TV adver- and the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) Lanka in January 2020 marking Beijing’s nomic Commission, which will be tisement locally on Port City to clarify held two separate demonstrations near the first high-level engagement with the new entrusted with the managerial, admin- some of the misconceptions among the Parliament roundabout raising their objec- Government led by President Rajapaksa. istrative and business affairs of the new public regarding the project. tions to the Bill. Police however said the The proposed visit even before the dust economic hub-to-be of the country. two parties had violated the current quaran- settles on the finalization of the Colombo It has been assured by the Govern- Voting in parliament tine regulations in the process. Port City Legislation has triggered curiosity ment that the majority of Members of this dem with enhanced Chinese influence on On behalf of the SJB, MP Dr. Harsha de among political and social circles. It will be executive body, including its Head, will be this island nation is a truth that can hardly The Colombo Port City Bill was passed in Silva presented eight Amendments to the the third high-powered Chinese delegation Sri Lankan. The President has a free hand be denied. The responsibility of the Govern- Parliament with an overwhelming majority Bill, but the Government refused to accom- to the country in less than a year. Chinese when it comes to those appointments and if ment of the day is to reap the economic of votes and all parties within the Govern- modate them. Several Opposition Members Defence Minister Wei Fenghe, who arrived he wishes, two or three foreigners can get in benefits this project offers while taking suf- ment closed ranks to vote for the Bill. SLPP expressed their displeasure that the Speaker towards the end of April, and senior Chi- to the Commission. The credentials and ficient safeguards to protect national inter- MP Dr. Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe, who pub- acted with undue haste when the Amend- nese diplomat and Chinese Communist integrity of the Members the President ests and national security. licly criticized the Bill, was a notable absen- ments were proposed at the Committee Party Political Bureau Member Yang Jiechi, picks to this apex body will determine how The Government has its work cut out to tee during the vote. Parliament announced Stage debate. who arrived early October last year, also efficient and transparent its operations will make sure the Colombo Port City, built on a that the Bill received 148 votes for and 59 In a different turn of events, Opposition held high-level bilateral talks with the Gov- be. newly reclaimed 269-hectare land adjacent against at the Second Reading and 149 Leader Sajith Premadasa and his wife ernment leaders. to the Colombo Harbour, is truly an interna- votes for and 58 votes against at the Third tested positive for COVID-19 on Sunday. Despite the international travel restric- Moving to next gear tional destination preferred by many coun- Reading. Premadasa himself announced the diagno- tions in the midst of the global COVID-19 tries, and is not a territory dominated by a However, the Government Members later sis on his private Twitter account. Parlia- pandemic, Beijing has been quite active in Though the timing of this Bill was contro- single world power. This is important not to disputed that the above vote count on the mentary authorities were in the process of fostering its foreign relations with Asian versial, there was wide agreement between strain the relationship the country has with Second Reading of the Bill taken from the analysing the CCTV footage of the past few and African regions including the Middle the Government and the Opposition Law- any other country. Electronic Voting System (EVS) was erro- sitting days to identify his close associates East throughout this period. It has also makers that the China-funded Colom- Accepting this challenge, the first thing neous as the ‘yes’ votes of Justice Minister as he attended Parliament sittings last engaged in “vaccine diplomacy” by gifting bo Port City Project has the potential to the Government did after the Parliamentary Ali Sabry, PC, and MP Jayarathna Herath week. the Chinese-made Sinopharm vaccine to salvage the country’s ailing economy by nod for the Port City legislation was to had not been included. Both were in the It was reported that the Opposition Lead- various countries including Sri Lanka. bringing in the much-need foreign exchange. openly invite business firms around the House at voting time and had pressed the er had not yet taken the COVID-19 vaccine Another stock of 500,000 Sinopharm vac- The Government has hopes of drawing world to invest in the proposed world-class green ‘yes’ button. The Government thus offered to the MPs, citing that he wished to cine doses gifted by China is due in Colom- investments worth US$ 15 billion over the smart city. Speaking to the media just a day maintained that the Bill received the two- give priority for the vulnerable groups bo this week. This will help bolster the next five years to the Colom- after the passage of the Bill, Government thirds majority of 150 votes, though a sim- among the public. However, some observers country’s vaccination campaign, hit by sup- bo Port City, generating over 200,000 jobs. heavyweights, Justice Minister Ali Sabry, ple majority was enough for its passage. pointed out that refusing the offer to get ply snags of the Oxford/AstraZeneca vac- The first few buildings including a residen- PC, Education Minister Prof. G.L. Peiris, The Speaker has now called for technical vaccinated could mean a risk to other peo- cine and the COVAX donations. Furthering tial block are due to be completed by 2025. and Money, Capital Market and State Enter- and administrative investigations on the ple as politicians meet local-level public China’s long-term strategy of ‘Belt and Road The promising opportunities this project prise Reforms State Minister Ajith Nivard alleged discrepancy. representatives and the public frequently. Initiative’ (BRI), which promotes inter- offers, in economic perspectives, were too Cabraal, stressed that investment in One interesting observation on this Par- Premadasa was the eleventh MP to be regional connectivity via land and maritime good to refuse despite the geopolitical the Port City is open for all and that there is liamentary vote was that the Members infected with COVID-19 and the third MP networks to form a so-called “string of strings attached with it. That the ambitious absolutely no limitation for any country or known for their conservative and nationalis- to get it in the third wave. Nuwara-Eliya pearls”, was discernible in all those endeav- Colombo Port City Project comes in tan- company. tic views, such as Minister Dr. Sarath District SLPP/CWC MP Maruthapandi ours. THe SpeecH THaT buRieD a paRTy’S faTe Rajpal abeynayake paksa Presidency and that of any of to flatter, and to win over an audi- ome failures could be forgot- the previous incumbents is best ence by successfully appealing to ten, some are insignificant reflected in the now iconic photo- their emotions. but there are others than graph of then President Mahinda AKD’s “he was there when the S endure. They define politics Rajapaksa speaking to the delega- war ended” speech pushed all the in a way we may think is not possi- tion from Europe that came to meet wrong buttons, and was by defini- ble. The JVP’s Anura Kumara Dis- him when the last stages of the war tion a car crash. His intention was sanayake (AKD) is responsible for was in progress. to persuade with logic, which by one of the most iconic failures of our AKD should have one look at that the reckoning of Socrates, was the time. photograph and then decide which wrong way to go about making a Iconic failure may be an oxymo- is more important, the Presidency winning speech. But even if pure ron, but so be it. Who has not seen or the personality of the incumbent reasoning was the motive, AKD the AKD clip in which the leader that occupies the Office. floundered terribly on the logic. He exhorts his party faithful to consider Anyway, AKD knows the answer. contradicted himself so badly that the 2009 war victory? His objective He is unequivocal about it. Why he ended up being the best ever PR is to nullify then President Mahinda could not any of the previous presi- advocate for Mahinda Rajapaksa Rajapaksa’s extraordinary leadership dents end the war, he asks? He whom he set out to demolish. He effort that led to the defeat of the knows it is because none of them did not appeal to the emotions of LTTE at Nandikadal. had the brass to point a finger at the people either, except that he He begins by saying that civil the likes of David Milliband and unintentionally elicited one very wars – yes, he calls the war on LTTE say, “We are no longer your colony,” raw and basic emotion from his terror a civil war – come to an end while Milliband’s other friends audience – that of anger. They were eventually. He almost pleads with stared at that placid lake in Embilip- so angry, they practically ended the his listeners to consider that all wars itiya, wishing it was in Emberton JVP for the next 20 years, after that of the nature of a civil war eventually or Emsworth, in England. Of speech. meander to a halt. He may as well course, everybody knows that the But not only did AKD not con- have said that all life comes to an Then president Mahinda Rajapaksa President fed these delegates well, sider resigning after that implosion end. Or everything is impermanent. with then uk foreign Minister David Then president Mahinda Rajapaksa pays homage to the nation upon his return introduced them to some choice Sri of an oration, he tried to keep that Having said that all civil conflicts Miliband at chandrika Wewa to Sri lanka from a foreign visit following the war victory in May 2009 Lankan culinary delights, and sent same car crash tactic of negativity wind down with time, he comes to from a further deconstruction of the faced since the grant of independ- them on their way back to, er, going for the rest of his tenure as that now notorious line in his speech content of that clip. ence. Emsworth. leader. Why should anybody try to that buried the JVP’s fate for around The powers of the Executive Pres- Even when the likes of AKD try to destroy the JVP, when its leader three generations. political case idency may be formidable, but no undermine that determined display does it effortlessly all by himself “So the war came to an end, as all power is useful unless it is harnessed of statesmanship and indomitability, almost every time he opens his wars do. Mahinda Rajapaksa was The gentleman is intent on mak- to proper effect. Imagine the powers they find they cannot. Their slip mouth? there as President when that hap- ing the political case against the of the Presidency in the hands of shows. As long as the JVP is as It should be basic. A party that pened, and that’s all that took place,” Presidency. To this end, he says AKD for example. Nothing will get negative as it is now, the party’s dwells 100 percent on negativity he says looking for approval. there were four Executive Presidents done, because an AKD Presidency leadership is its own worst enemy. would only attract negative vibes. If That line is such a comprehensive before Mahinda Rajapaksa. “Look,” – God forbid – will be a non-stop The doublespeak in that post-war anyone does not know that he or political disaster that on its own it he implores. “If the Executive Presi- talking-shop. It will be a 24-hour, speech – that MR happened to be she does not know anything about stands out as the statement that dency was so powerful, how is it that seven days a week commentary on the President when the war ended/ life, leave alone running a country. destroyed the JVP in its modern any of the previous Presidents were the Opposition. why couldn’t any other President But the JVP does not know any- incarnation as a post ’90s non-vio- unable to stop this war?” end the war with the Executive thing other than negativity – they lent political entity. People didn’t With that one line, he becomes, JVP Leader MP Self-contradiction Presidency? – sealed the JVP’s fate cannot creep out of that skin. But it have to look beyond that piece of unwittingly and totally unbe- anura kumara Dissanayake for years to come. It was the blunder seems AKD and Co. have that kind stand-alone rhetoric. They decided knownst to him, the former Presi- The powers of a Presidency how- of the order that calls for the resigna- of intellectual make up. They are what the true nature of the JVP was dent’s most persuasive advocate. ing that there were four previous ever powerful the institution, is as tion of the party leader with immedi- unable to think outside the black from that one claim by the party’s He becomes President Mahinda Presidents and they could not in good as the ability of the incumbent. ate effect – yet, AKD stays on. box of negative nattering. They are current helmsman. Rajapaksa’s most logically rigorous their time stop the war with all the For example, Abraham Lincoln and unable to veer out of the car crash But that is almost a pity because promoter and fan, with one simple powers of the Executive Presidency. Gerald Ford were both Presidents of public speaking mode. It is of course fun watching the real nature of the JVP’s living lie, sound bite. He comprehensively That’s what it is Mr. AKD. You the US. Who remembers Gerald this lot self-destruct on a routine is apparent from a deeper perusal of demolishes his own previous argu- said it with your splendid own goal. Ford? This is so axiomatic, but in One writer described then Brit- daily basis. It is as if you are watch- that speech. Though the oft quoted ment that President Mahinda Raja- It was Mahinda Rajapaksa’s Presi- his insistence on demolishing both ish Prime Minister Theresa May’s ing a comedy channel where the quip is what lingers in the public paksa was “merely the incumbent dency that ended the war. It was his the Executive Presidency and Presi- speech to the Conservative Party comedian’s victims get destroyed. domain from that peroration, the President when the civil war ran its leadership as opposed to the Presi- dent Rajapaksa the politician in a Conference in 2017 as an oratorical Except in this case, the comedian shambolic nature of that speech course and ended.” dencies of four previous incumbents single speech, AKD hopelessly con- car crash. Socrates is supposed to sets out to destroy himself, his only meant to destroy Mahinda Raja- He shatters that line of reasoning, that ended the conflict that was the tradicted himself. have stated that the art of public victim, and does so successfully, paksa the politician, is apparent and leaves it in smithereens by stat- most devastating issue this country The difference between the Raja- speaking was not to persuade but every single time. DN page 8 NEWS FEATURE WEDNESDAY, MAY 26, 2021 VESAK POYA BUDDHISM IS THRIVING

A statue of Prince Siddhartha in Mongolia IN MONGOLIA A Buddha statue in Ulaanbaatar GONCHIG GANBOLD esak (Pali: Vesakha, San- skrit: Vaisakha), known as Buddha Jayanti or V Buddha Purnima and Buddha Day is observed by Bud- dhist communities in and beyond India as the day of the Birth, Enlightenment and Parinirvana of Gautama Buddha. Mongolians also plan to celebrate Buddha Day today (26) which has been declared a public holiday. In the seventh century Xuanzang, a Chinese traveller, who was a Bud- dhist monk and a scholar recorded that while traversing the Gobi Desert on the way to reach the Silk Road, he saw Buddhist temples in the territory of Mongols, where monks were doing puja and study- ing, as well as chanting in an Indian language. Also, there is a record that states that in the sixth and seventh centu- ries an Indian, Pandita Narendra- yashas, and a teacher at a school in Magadha, Baragawara Midara, came to the land of the Mongols. Historical sources corroborate Chinggis Khan that Mongolia was indeed the earli- Buddha and his two main disciples, Undoubtedly, the contemporary est to receive the Bauddha Dharma beautifully crafted by well-known world needs more spiritual and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Mongolian President Khaltmaagiin sculptors Ram and Anil Sutar, to the moral empowerment for sustainable among the three Dharmic lands Battulga at the unveiling of a Buddha statue gifted by India after India. Gandantegchilin Monastery in development. It is worth underlining There is archeological evidence to Ulaanbaatar. And 108 volumes of here that the Teachings of the Gau- prove the second spread of Bud- Mongol Kanjur, a compilation of the tama Buddha are more relevant dhism in Mongolia. For instance, a Buddha’s teachings, have also been today. They not only inspire the Buddha statue found in the tomb of republished by the National Mission people for cultivation of wisdom but a Uyghur nobleman is directly relat- for Manuscripts, Indira Gandhi also for peaceful co-existence, mutu- ed to the time of the Uyghur empire National Centre for the Arts, Minis- al respect and togetherness. (ninth to tenth century) in Tsagaan– try of Culture, Government of India, Our collaborations are exponen- Ovoo soum of Dornod province. along with the International Acade- tially growing in multiple areas Ancient Indian culture and arts my of Indian Culture to present to including information and communi- reached Mongolia through its Dhar- Mongolia on the upcoming Buddha cation technology, agriculture and ma. Based on these and other Day. mining industry. Collaboration records, we can say that our ances- Teachings of Buddha and Bud- between Mongolia and India have tors adopted the Bauddha Dharma Emperor Kublai Khan dhism have become an inseparable ample room for growth and will from India through Sogdian and part of the Mongolian way of life. play a substantive role in their econ- Uyghur panditas in ancient past. Khaisan Khuleg Khan and Buyan The Middle Path or Noble Eightfold omies. Kavyadarsha by Dandini (a Mir- Khan, Buddhist sutras such as Pan- Path, consisting of perfect view, per- Mongolia exports primarily com- ror of Poetry) is an ancient system- cha Ragsha Sutra, Saddharma- fect thought, perfect speech, perfect modities such as minerals and agri- atic methodology of poetry in San- pundarika Sutra, Arya Manju action, perfect mode of living, per- cultural products. These account for skrit, which was composed in the Shiri Nama Samgiri and Bodhicar- fect endeavour, perfect mindfulness about 80 percent of our exports. seventh century in India. Kavyadar- yavartara were translated into the and perfect consciousness helped to However, the Government pursues sha plays an important role in orien- Mongolian languages and Kanjur form our thoughts and turned into a policies supporting investors who tal literature. This text on Indian was casted in gold. philosophy that has huge impact on export not just raw material, such as theories of poetry was translated Thus, from Chinggis to Togoontu- our state policy. Henceforth, Mon- ores and concentrates, but bring in into Mongolian languages. Learned mur all the great Khans were relying golians attach the highest value to deep processing and produce value- lama Gelegjaltsan had translated on Dharma and Damma Gurus. The Gandantegchinlen Monastery in Ulaanbaatar gyan (knowledge), dharma (realiza- added products. There is immense this text on theories from Tibetan monasteries, statues and stupas tion) and karma (action). Though, potential still available to increase into Mongolian in the 17th century built during the Yuan dynasty are sitting on the northern and southern non-mineral exports, especially of and other lamas wrote commentar- countless. The manuscripts Shebya fringes of Buddhist Asia, Mongolia agriculture-based Mongolian brand ies in Sanskrit. Rabsel composed by Phagva Lama and India have been intertwined products. Today, 80 million heads of Even nowadays, the young genera- at the request of Chingim, a son of with such spiritual legacies which animals have been counted which tion of scholars like D. Shirendev, Kublai Khan was block-printed. This has grown into a solid basis of our constitute untapped resources of who studied at the Central Institute Sutra, written in the Square script state-to-state relations. Recently, we ecologically clean hides, dairy, cash- of Higher Tibetan Studies in Varana- the then formal script of the Yuan jointly marked the 65th anniversary mere and wool. si, translated 13 volumes of the Pali dynasty, obviously attracts interests of the establishment of diplomatic To bolster sustainable growth, Tripitaka into Mongolian. Eight vol- of scholars because Mongolians used relations. Mongolia has undertaken a compre- umes of the 13 have already been all the Buddhist terms and notions Since Buddhism adopted in my hensive set of initiatives over the published. “The Tsogt Khurden” an that were used in the old Mongol country came from India, many of past years in such areas as taxation, editorial group is also doing transla- script when they translated Bud- our learned scholars studied at the visa regime and trade policy that tion and comparative studies of dhist Sutras. ancient centres of Buddhist studies provide for a stable investment and these ancient sutras from the Pali Prof. B. Rinchen made a catalogue such as Nalanda. Returning to Mon- legal environment and clear guide- and Sanskrit languages. of the texts translated into Mongo- golia after the attainment of high lines for the role of Government in Since the 13th century Mongolian lian which was partly published dur- Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia religious order, they significantly major projects. emperors invited the spiritual mas- ing his lifetime. Now Dr. Shashibala India as Hindu or Hindustan and Amongst them, Altan Khan of contributed to the promotion of Mongolia currently offers a range ters and assigned them the tile of of Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan is editing the river of Indus as Sindhi or a Tumed invited His Holiness Sonam humane values in their native land. of tax concessions for export-orient- “Imperial guru” for enlightening the the remaining part and contem- ‘Shine gol’ (new river). This manu- Gyatso to Mongolia and became his Mongolian Buddhist scholars wrote ed industries and priority sectors of commoners with Bauddha Dharma. plates publishing them in four vol- script was first translated into the spiritual disciple and bestowed the a large number of sacred texts on the economy. Foreign investment is Chinggis Khan exempted Buddhist umes. English language in 1959 at Aligarh famous title of ‘Dalai Lama’ (Lama the tradition of the Dharma. With encouraged in tourism. Indian tour- monasteries from taxes. His succes- The Grand White Stupa built in Muslim University by noted histori- with knowledge as vast as ocean) to enormous suffering and great sacri- ism companies that used to work in sor, Ugedei Khan established a Bud- the capital city of the Yuan dynasty an Mohammad Habib. His Holiness. fices Mongolians have preserved the area of studying the market and dhist monastery in the capital of by the decree of Kublai Khan is a At the time of Ligden Khan, Mon- In the 16th century, there were their national culture and Buddhist legal environment are now showing then Mongolian empire, Khar Korin. historical property that provides val- golian scholars completed translat- three great Buddhist figures spread- heritage. interest to ramp up their presence Guyug Khan, Godun Khan, uable information of the Yuan dynas- ing the entire Kanjur and Tanjur ing Dharma. At the grace of Neij I wish to note that the majority of and increase their operations in Mongke Khan and Kublai Khan and ty. consisting of over 5000 Sutras. By toin from Inner Mongolia, Venerable Mongolians practise Buddhism, not Mongolia. their descendants disseminated the The 13th century’s famous annals the end of 15th century, Mongolian Zanabazar (Gyani Vajaru) from only as religion, but also as a philos- Given the promising initiative of Bauddha Dharma during their The Sacred History of Mongols noblemen extensively contributed to Khalkha and Jaya Pandit Namkhai- ophy of empowerment and content- the Hunnu Air, a Mongolian compa- respective times. During the time of (Chapter 261 to 264) referred to the spread of the Bauddha Dharma. jamtso from Oirad, the Gelugpa tra- ment. Even nowadays a large num- ny, to launch scheduled flights con- dition flourished in its full zenith. At ber of novitiates are cloistering in necting Ulaanbaatar and New Delhi this time, all Mahayana manuscripts monasteries in India. Thus, Bharat and the new international airport in were entirely translated into the is regarded as a sacred land of Dhar- Khoshigt valley, in the outskirts of Mongolian language. Many if not all ma and a source of wisdom and Ulaanbaatar coming into operation, of them, are preserved in the Gan- knowledge. These spiritual ties con- I am optimistic that India’s involve- dantegchilin monastery and Public stitute another pillar of our close ment in the field of tourism and hos- Library of Mongolia. cultural and educational exchanges. pitality industry would be enhanced. Indian Prime Minister Narendra On this auspicious occasion, I pay Considering that 590,000 eligible Modi during his official visit to heartfelt tributes to those Buddhist citizens of Mongolia have been fully Mongolia in 2015 presented saplings masters who cultivated the Dharma vaccinated, Mongolia reopened for of a Banyan tree and pledged to help and brought our two nations as clos- international air travellers on May in building a statue of the Buddha er as strategic partners. 10, 2021, and resumed scheduled and his two disciples as well as digi- Both of us, peace-loving nations, flights with countries that recognize talizing these ancient and rare Bud- free from any military alliances, are its immunization certificate for dhist manuscripts. His offer was constructively collaborating within COVID-19, named ‘International deeply appreciated as a vivid indica- the framework of the Asian Bud- Travel Health Certificate’ (ITHC). I tion of our bonds of Dharma and dhist for Peace Conference for over believe that Mongolia would be common civilizational affinities. 50 years and International Buddhist another favourable destination for Two years back, the Government Confederation to avoid conflicts and brothers and sisters in the Dhar- Bhikkus in Mongolia The ruins of Nalanda, India of India built and gifted statues of facilitate understanding and amity. ma. (WION) WEDNESDAY, MAY 26, 2021 VESAK POYA page 9 DN SACHITRA MAHENDRA subject to vanish. Strive with ear- his young man, given to nestness!” austerities in life, was This was the last word of the T called Sumedha. Simply an Tathagata. unknown entity, yet his attempt to 9. And the Blessed One entered achieve the highest spiritual realm the first jhana. Rising from the first was unwavering and unshaken. Such jhana, he entered the second jhana. resolute thinkers have been few to Rising from the second jhana, he none. Sumedha’s tale takes us to the BIRTH OF A CONQUEROR OF THE MIND entered the third jhana. Rising times of yore, past several Buddhas, from the third jhana, he entered But then this was a time when the the fourth jhana. And rising out of world was blessed by a Buddha who the fourth jhana, he entered the bore a different name: Dipankara. sphere of infinite space. Rising The young man, Sumedha, was from the attainment of the sphere intrigued to hear of Dipankara Bud- of infinite space, he entered the dha’s arrival at his hometown. He sphere of infinite consciousness. rejoiced at the glad tidings. Unbe- Rising from the attainment of the knownst to his surrounding, Sumed- sphere of infinite consciousness, he ha had a determination of a unique REJOICE entered the sphere of nothingness. sort. Rising from the attainment of the It was no mundane craving. It was sphere of nothingness, he entered not some wishful thinking. Sumed- the sphere of neither-perception- ha’s aspiration, deep and profound, nor-non-perception. And rising out was to make history. He sought a of the attainment of the sphere of definite prophecy that he would be neither-perception-nor-non-percep- the successor of the very person tion, he attained to the cessation of who stood before his eyes. THE GLAD perception and feeling. The town, however, was congest- 10. And the Venerable Ananda ed with people. The young man spoke to the Venerable Anuruddha, could hardly think of seeing saying: “Venerable Anuruddha, the Dipankara Buddha, let alone any Blessed One has passed away.” other communication. When he “No, friend Ananda, the Blessed noticed the muddy road, his One has not passed away. He has thoughts worked on a different entered the state of the cessation plane. Strong of purpose, he acted TIDINGS of perception and feeling.” fast. 11. Then the Blessed One, rising He requested the Master and the from the cessation of perception retinue to walk over him. Dipankara and feeling, entered the sphere of Buddha saw the young man’s neither-perception-nor-non-percep- thought in his divine eye and knew tion. Rising from the attainment of the youth’s wish will materialise in the sphere of neither-perception- uncountable aeons to come. nor-non-perception, he entered the Dipankara Buddha prophesied the names of King Maniagiya and sphere of nothingness. Rising from ascetic Sumedha would be a Buddha his mother. This is, in fact, King the attainment of the sphere of named Gotama in future. The day Maniakkhika.” (82pp) nothingness, he entered the sphere the Buddha declared the solemn King Maniakikha is commonly of infinite consciousness. Rising prophecy to his twenty-fourth suc- mistaken as a Naga king; naga from the attainment of the sphere cessor was a Vesak Full Moon Poya means serpent in oriental languages. of infinite consciousness, he Day. Since then Sumedha occupied The scholars believe that the king entered the sphere of infinite the womb of different sorts many hailed from a clan named Naga. Fol- space. Rising from the attainment times. He had to fulfil the thirty per- lowing the Buddha’s sermon in of the sphere of infinite space, he fections, paramitas. Before his final Kelaniya, the king erected a shrine entered the fourth jhana. Rising birth, the Bodhisatva, or Buddha-to- with the Buddha’s hair, utensils and from the fourth jhana, he entered be, was born in Thusitha heaven. the seat buried inside. The foreign the third jhana. Rising from the The divine being inquired if five invasions have resulted in damaging third jhana, he entered the second matters are in the proper place the original shrine. jhana. Rising from the second before expiring to occupy the final The Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara jhana, he entered the first jhana. womb: time, area, continent, cast became an even more revered site Rising from the first jhana, he and mother. Then, as any Buddhist following Venerable Mahinda Thera’s entered the second jhana. Rising knows, the fully mindful divine arrival in Lanka to establish the from the second jhana, he entered being entered the womb of Queen Buddha’s teachings. Mahawamsa - the third jhana. Rising from the Mahamaya to be sired by King Sud- account of the great clan, if rendered third jhana, he entered the fourth dhodana. A prince was born on a into English - the official chronicle jhana. And, rising from the fourth Vesak Poya and was named Sid- on Sri Lankan history written in the jhana, the Blessed One immediate- dharth, one who has found the 5th Century CE, states King Devan- ly passed away. meaning of existence. The queen ampiyatissa’s brother Uttiya renovat- passed away seven days after the ed the Dagoba along with the first THE WORLD’S ECHO prince’s birth. quarters of the monks. The whiz kid declared the glori- Mahavamsa interestingly relates 12. And when the Blessed One ous verse, customary for all Bud- how the Blessed One journeyed to erected on the place the Blessed One Lankan kings, mentions Vijaya’s bhikkhus address one another as had passed away, simultaneously dhas, just after the birth: Adam’s Peak or Sumanakuta from meditated. entourage spotted Adam’s Peak and ‘friend,’ let it not be so when I am with his Parinibbana there came a “I am the chief of the world. There Kelani on the Vesak Poya day. The Many works including Samantha landed in Southern Sri Lanka - the gone. The senior bhikkhus, Ananda, tremendous earthquake, dreadful is no equal to me. I am supreme. 7359-ft-tall conical mountain has a Pasadika and Dipavamsa contain area that later became the Kingdom may address the junior ones by their and astounding, and the thunders This is my last birth. No rebirth for historic significance as Buddhists allusions to Dighavapi. of Ruhuna. H Parker, a British histo- name, their family name, or as rolled across the heavens. me.” believe it has the Buddha’s footprint The works mention the inhabit- rian, however, mentions it is the ‘friend’; but the junior bhikkhus 13. And when the Blessed One The teacher worshipped the teach- on it. ants of Dighavapi were Yakkas, with mouth of Kirindi Oya. should address the senior ones as had passed away, simultaneously er of the world, and then the father links to pre-Aryan Kirat people in So started the Vijayan dynasty, a ‘venerable sir’ or ‘your reverence.’ with his Parinibbana, Brahma worshipped the son. MELTING POT OF Northern India. As a legend goes, reign of a King with a positive atti- 3. “If it is desired, Ananda, the Sahampati spoke this stanza: CULTURES while a novice monk was repairing a tude towards Buddhism, making the Sangha may, when I am gone, abol- All must depart — all beings ASPIRING FOR part of the shrine, he fell from the path clear for an official introduction ish the lesser and minor rules. that have life Must shed their com- ENLIGHTENMENT The mount is normally known as top. He heard the shouting of his during King Devanampiyatissa’s 4. “Ananda, when I am gone, let pound forms. Yea, even one, A Adam’s Peak for Christians and colleagues to recall Dhajagga Paritta, reign. the higher penalty be imposed upon Master such as he, a peerless Siddharth Gotama’s life was spent Shivan Adipatham (Shiva’s foot- a sutta reciting the great qualities of King Devenampiyatissa - meaning the bhikkhu Channa.” being, Powerful in wisdom, the in royal luxuries until he realised print) for Hindus. The mount has the Buddha, his Teachings and the ‘beloved of the gods’ - had his sec- “But what, Lord, is the higher Enlightened One, has passed away. life’s true nature. Moments later Sid- obviously become the meeting place Dispensation. And finally, it is said, ond coronation on a Vesak Poya day. penalty?” 14. And when the Blessed One dharth renounced the princely life for people of diverse religions and the novice monk was saved miracu- Mahavamsa goes on to describe the “The bhikkhu Channa, Ananda, had passed away, simultaneously on a Vesak Poya. Yet ascetic life was ethnicities. lously. The area was later recon- moment of glory: “Grand miracles may say what he will, but the bhik- with his Parinibbana, Sakka, king not a simple thing for the prince. In Sinhala the mount is known as structed by King Saddhatissa. occurred during the consecration of khus should neither converse with of the gods, spoke this stanza: The robed Gotama was trained in Sri Pada, the term derived from San- King Devanampiya Tissa. Jewels him, nor exhort him, nor admonish Transient are all compounded various mental skills under many skrit denoting the ‘sacred foot’. The ORIGINAL INFLUENCES buried in earth rose to the surface, him.” things, Subject to arise and vanish; teachers, only to get disillusioned Sinhala Samanala Kanda, or Butter- pearls in deep oceans were washed 5. Then the Blessed One Having come into existence they that they do not have the truth he fly Mountain in English, is named Some sources indicate that the ashore and piled up and bamboo addressed the bhikkhus, saying: “It pass away; Good is the peace when looks for. The right way to achieve thus because of the annually migrat- Buddha set foot on Kataragama fol- trees started to look like they were may be, bhikkhus, that one of you is they forever cease. the truth dawned on him one day. ing butterflies. lowing the visit to Dighavapi. Leg- made out of silver. King Devanampi- in doubt or perplexity as to the Bud- 15. And when the Blessed One He directed the mind on the right Legend has it that the Buddha end lays down an account where the yatissa thought that these pearls and dha, the Dhamma, or the Sangha, had passed away, simultaneously meditation path. Moments later, he placed his left footprint on the hill Buddha met King Mahasena (some gems should be sent to his great the path or the practice. Then ques- with his Parinibbana, the Venera- reached enlightenment and con- summit and then strode across to sources identify the king as Mahag- friend, King Dharmashoka of India. tion, bhikkhus! Do not be given to ble Anuruddha spoke this stanza: quered the world of sorrows on a Thailand, then Siam. In Siam the hosha) in Kataragama. Kings Dharmashoka and Devanampi- remorse later on with the thought: No movement of the breath, but Vesak Poya. Buddha is said to have left the The king listened to the Buddha yatissa were great friends for many ‘The Master was with us face to with steadfast heart, Free from The Conqueror was heading to impression of the right foot; this is and erected a shrine - now known as years but had never seen each face, yet face to face we failed to desires and tranquil — so the sage the city of Kusinara when he met called Phra Sat, similar to Sri Pada. Mangala Ceitya - on the place he other.” ask him.’” Comes to his end. By mortal pangs Pukkusa. The layman listened to the In his Bharhut Stupa General Sir A preached. The place is now called King Dharmashoka by this time 6. But when this was said, the unshaken, His mind, like a flame Dhamma and offered the Buddha Cunningham rests details about foot- Kiri Vehera, located close to the was sending Buddhist missionaries bhikkhus were silent. And yet a extinguished, finds release. two golden robes: one worn by the prints: Hindu temple built by the same to countries around the world. He second and a third time the Bless- 16. And when the Blessed One Buddha and the other by his assis- “Footprints of the Buddha were king. selected his son arahant Mahinda to ed One said to them: “It may be, had passed away, simultaneously tant Ananda. most probably an object of reverence According to a source discovered be sent to Lanka with the message bhikkhus, that one of you is in with his Parinibbana, the Venerable The Conqueror’s skin dazzled as from a very early period - certainly by Nishantha Gunawardena the of Buddhism. doubt or perplexity as to the Bud- Ananda spoke this stanza: he donned the robe. This amazed before the building of the Bharut Mangala Ceitya contains the sword Arahant Mahinda and four other dha, the Dhamma, or the Sangha, Then there was terror, and the Venerable Ananda. He was told that Stupa - as they are represented in that Prince Siddharth used to cut his monks left the Indian shores to visit the path or the practice. Then hair stood up, when he, The All- the skin of a Buddha will illume two separate sculptures there. In the hair in renouncing. However, as Lanka; Missaka Pavva (Mihintale) question, bhikkhus! Do not be accomplished One, the Buddha, remarkably on two occasions: the sculpture, the footprints are placed Gunawardena adds, the source is yet was their destination. King Devan- given to remorse later on with the passed away. night he attains Enlightenment and on a throne or altar, canopied by an to be verified. ampiyatissa was conducting a deer thought: ‘The Master was with us the night he passes into Parinibbana. umbrella hung with garlands. Prince Vijaya’s visit to Sri Lanka - hunt close to Mihintale at the time. face to face, yet face to face we YASODHARA A royal personage is kneeling then called Tambapanni, the gold- The god of the mountain, it is failed to ask him.’” THIRD VISIT TO SRI LANKA before the altar, and reverently sand island - occurred on a Vesak said, wanted to show Arahant Mahi- And for a second and a third Siddhartha and Yasodhara were of touching the footprints with his Poya. As commonly known, Vijaya nda to the king and disguised him- time the bhikkhus were silent. the same age, which means they The Buddha visited Sri Lanka on hands. The second example is in the was exiled to Tambapanni because self as a deer. King Devanampiyatis- Then the Blessed One said to were both born in Vesak. Interest- three occasions: first to Mahiyanga- bas-relief representing the visit of of the dreadful behaviour of him and sa and his men chased the deer. them: “It may be, bhikkhus, out of ingly Yasodhara’s great demise took na in January, second to Nagadipa in Ajata-satru to Buddha. Here, as in all his associates. When the deer came near the moun- respect for the Master that you place in the same month, yet two April, and third to Kelaniya in May, other Bharut sculptures, the Buddha His father, Sinhabahu, had no tain where arahant Mahinda stood, ask no questions. Then, bhikkhus, years ere that of the Buddha. Venera- Vesak. On the second visit made to does not appear in person, his pres- option other than banishing him - the deer passed out of sight. let friend communicate it to a ble Gangodawila Soma Thera Nagadipa, King Maniakkikha invited ence being marked by His two foot- his followers and their families num- friend.” Yet still, the bhikkhus describes the event in his Rahula the Blessed One for the third visit to prints. The wheel symbol is duly bering about 700 - to the island with PARINIBBANA were silent. Matha: Kelaniya. And he visited Kelaniya marked on both.” (112pp). their heads partly shaved as a sign 7. And the Venerable Ananda “Yasodhara had this thought while three years after his second visit, A cave temple called Diva Guhava of disgrace. Vijaya’s ancestors came Eighty-year old Gotama Buddha spoke to the Blessed One, saying: going back to her monastery after with 550 arahants. is recognised as the place the Bud- down from the kingdom of Kalinga, disclosed that his passing away, “Marvellous it is, O Lord, most the sermon. However, Nishantha Gunawarde- dha had respite during his Sri Pada known as Orissa to the ancient, and Parinibbana, would take place on the wonderful it is! This faith I have ‘Venerables Nanda, Rahula, chief na, a Sri Lankan historian based in visit along with his retinue. The Vanga in Bangladesh and the eastern third watch of the night at Sal grove in the community of bhikkhus, monk disciples, chief lay disciples, the United States, refers to an inter- cave is said to have the capacity to part of India. of Malla royal family. Maha Parinib- that not even one bhikkhu is in King Suddhodana, Prajapathi Gotha- esting find in The Lost Dynasty: provide shelter for over 500 people. The king of Vanga was married to bana Sutta gives an illustrious doubt or perplexity as to the Bud- mi, Kondanna, they all have now The Buddha was not invited by King Siripa Samaya, the season of Sripa the daughter of the king of Kalinga, description of the Buddha’s last dha, the Dhamma, or the Sangha, passed away. I was born on the same Maniakkhika but by a king named pilgrimage starts in December named Suppadevi. Mahavamsa then moment. We reproduce an excerpt the path or the practice.” day as Prince Siddhartha. We were Panitha and his daughter princess through May. relates the episode of Suppadevi hav- from the translation of the sutta by “Out of faith, Ananda, you of the same age and had the same Abhi Upaliya. Nishantha cites rock “When the Teacher, compassion- ing intimacies with a lion ending up Sister Vajira and Francis Story. speak thus. But here, Ananda, the ideals. So our demise should take inscriptions at Balaharukanda and ate to the whole world,” goes on with two children: Sihabahu, lion- The Blessed One’s Final Exhorta- Tathagata knows for certain that place at the same moment. But my Bambaragastalawa that corroborate Mahavamsa, “had preached the doc- arms, and Sihasivali. tion among this community of bhik- demise should take place earlier. this find. trine there, he rose, the Master, and The lion had a family life in a 1. Now the Blessed One spoke to khus there is not even one bhik- Otherwise, that will be too hard for “...the rock inscriptions are more left the traces of his footsteps plain cave, covered by a large rock to the Venerable Ananda, saying: “It khu who is in doubt or perplexity the world to bear up. That shall not accurate due to the difficulty in to sight on Sumanakuta. block any attempt of escapade. But may be, Ananda, that to some as to the Buddha, the Dhamma, happen. The likes of me must not changing or forging them. It was the And after he had spent the day as the turn of events took a different among you the thought will come: or the Sangha, the path or the see the great demise of the Buddha. national King Panitha who invited it pleased him at the foot of this shape as the lion’s family had ‘Ended is the word of the Master; practice. For, Ananda, among We are both 78 years now. As the Gautama Buddha the second time. mountain, with the brotherhood, be escaped from the cave, and Sihabahu we have a Master no longer.’ But it these five hundred bhikkhus even Buddha’s great demise takes place in The regional King Maniakkhika is set forth for Dighavapi.” killing his father with an arrow. Fol- should not, Ananda, be so consid- the lowest is a stream-enterer, two years, I shall now go and seek mentioned in a few other records. Some historians however observe lowing the patricide, Sihabahu mar- ered. For that which I have pro- secure from downfall, assured, and permission for my own.’ But it was not until the December the Buddha’s visit to Dighavapi as ried his sister and formed a kingdom claimed and made known as the bound for enlightenment.” With that thought, the earth 2004 tsunami hit, the king reintro- far from being likely. As the chroni- in Sihapura city. The royal couple Dhamma and the Discipline, that 8. And the Blessed One shook. The sky shuddered.” duced himself. A tsunami tore cle states, the Buddha had visited had a series of twins, of which Vijaya shall be your Master when I am addressed the bhikkhus, saying: Vesak brings in an engrossing his- through the island exposing several the village and meditated consecrat- was the eldest. gone. “Behold now, bhikkhus, I exhort torical tale mixed with spirit and ele- rock inscriptions. Two of them bore ing the place. A shrine was later Rajavaliya, the chronicle on Sri 2. “And, Ananda, whereas now the you: All compounded things are gance. DN page 10 vesak poya Wednesday, may 26, 2021

Just be faithful to the Buddha’s teachings. Don’t worry about the conditions of the body. Whether there is a pandemic or not, the body will still get old, get sick and die eventually. When we practise the Buddha’s teachings, we want to develop our mind to perfection. Liberate the mind from suffering by the practice of the Buddha’s teachings - by practising charity, morality and meditation.

SamaNgie WettimuNy

heravada Buddhist monk Venerable Ajahn Suchart Abhijato is well known across the globe for his Dhamma teaching methods andT meditation practice. He was born on November 2, 1947. Having completed his degree in Civil Engineering at California State University, Fresno, USA, he returned to his motherland where he designed an ice cream parlour for a brief stint. Quite soon, inspired by a Dhamma Book, he decided to go in search of ‘true “no conditions, happiness’, to find inner peace through the practice of Buddhist meditation. Ajahn Suchart Abhijato became a Buddhist monk at the age of 27 years and received ordination at Wat Bovornives in Bangkok on February 19, 1975, with Somdet Phra just forgive Ñanasarivara, the late Supreme Patriarch (Somdet Phra Sangharaja), as his preceptor. Presently Venerable Ajahn Suchart Abhijato resides in Wat Yansangwararam, Thailand. Venerable ajahn Suchart abhijato and forget!”

Excerpts from an interview with Ajahn Suchart you respect. Pathibath or Prathipaththi pooja is to Abhijato. Part 1 of this interview was published on practise the teachings of the person you love or Buddhism emphasises the April 26, 2021, to mark Bak Full Moon Poya Day. respect. The Buddha said; “If you love me, you have to practise Dana, Sila and Bhavana.” This is importance of the ‘present moment’. What is the Pathibath or Prathipaththi pooja. We, humans, are in the habit of These are two poojas of showing respect. The Q: best way to celebrate Buddha said Pathibath pooja (which means prac- either brooding over the past or worrying tising the teachings of the Buddha) is the best about an unseen future. What is the best way Q:Vesak Poya? form of giving (showing) respect to the Buddha to focus one’s mind on the present moment? A: The Buddha said the best way to celebrate Vesak or any Buddhist holiday (or any day for that When and where should a Buddhist A: There are several methods. matter) is to engage in prathipaththi pooja which forgive? Forgiveness is both i. By reciting the Mantra of ‘Buddho Buddho’ or any means the practice of the teachings of the Buddha. other type of mantra whichever you like. You can even This is the best way to celebrate any occasion. Prac- conditional and unconditional. recite the word ‘present’ (paccuban) as your mantra. tise Dana, Sila and Bhavana. (charity, morality and Q: You can recite ‘Buddho Buddho’ or any word that will meditation). Which end should we adopt? bring your mind back into the present moment. Don’t A: A Buddhist should forgive whenever he is angry let it go to the future or into the past. at someone. As you are angry and you want to hurt ii. Keep reciting a verse like ‘Ithipiso Bhagava Arahan What is your message to those someone, then you should forgive that person right Samma Sambuddho.’ This will then stop the mind from who are celebrating Vesak poya away. Whenever you want to take revenge and hurt a thinking about the past or the future and be back in the person (over something they have done), you should present moment. amidst the pandemic? forgive that person right away. iii. Another method to use is to focus your attention Q: Unconditional forgiveness is the Buddhist way. No come back to society like the Buddha. He left the on your body: movement and activities. Just keep A: Just be faithful to the Buddha’s teachings. Don’t conditions, just forgive and forget. Let bygones be society and he went to live alone - in seclusion- until watching what your body is doing right now. If you are worry about the conditions of the body. Whether bygones. This is the best way of forgiveness. Because his Enlightenment. He lived six years in seclusion. eating, just watch how the body does it. If ‘the body is there is a pandemic or not, the body will still get old, it will calm your mind and not make you become Once a person has fully controlled his mind, then walking’ just keep watching ‘the body walking’. Then get sick and die eventually. evil. When you are angry you can become evil very he can return to society and start preaching his the mind cannot go into the past or future. So this is When we practise the Buddha’s teachings, we want easily. When you forgive, then you can become an teachings. Then he can keep his mind calm all the the method of bringing the mind into the present. to develop our mind to perfection. Liberate the mind angel instead. You can become a saint! time, not reacting to anything bad. from suffering by the practice of the Buddha’s teach- So first if you want to control your mind complete- ings - by practising charity, morality and meditation. ly, you have to be alone and meditate - developing Immoral speech and action will A layman will not find it easy Samatha and Vipassana Bhavana. Once you have full bring about negative consequences. to keep his mind away from control of defilements, then you can return, join soci- Buddhists engage in both ety and do good things for the world and the public But thoughts are subtle. Do ‘impure Amisa and Pratipaththi Q:defilements for long. We have at large. Q:thoughts’ which are not translated into words or Pooja. Could you explain the seen many instances where even those Q: What is your actions, have negative Kamma/consequences? importance of each of them? who claim to own ‘advanced mindsets’ interpretation of A: Yes. As soon as you think something impure, or A: Pooja means paying homage. Amisa pooja get disturbed over trivial material when an impure thought crosses your mind, your mind means offering ‘things’ to the person you respect matters. How would you advise us to an ‘ideal Buddhist’? becomes uneasy, uncomfortable, restless, agitated and (money or material things). If you want to Q: not happy. So it has mental consequences. When you respect your mother and father, you can buy them develop the ‘purity of our mind’? A: An ideal Buddhist is a person who follows the think bad, your mind feels bad. So better not to think gifts. Give them money, for instance, or take teachings of the Buddha completely like developing bad at all. them out to see some places. This is called Amisa A: The best way is to live separately from every- the four Brahma Viharas by practising generosity, (Special thanks to Ajahn Suchart Abhijato‘s pooja. In short, it is giving things to the person body until you can totally control the mind and then morality and meditation. administrative team for facilitating the interview) The Buddha’s mission to humanity

Rupa BaNDuWaRDeNa of the samsaric journey of births straight path. The greatness of life activities of the kings and the peo- with the begging bowl and akyamuni Gauthama and deaths. The Buddha said, led by Him and the nobility of His ple. showed the way to liberation Buddha, the unique “Nibbana is the highest happi- teachings appealed to many and The active pursuit of Dhamma from suffering, to millions of being with love and com- ness”. The highest aim of the Bud- his doctrine of Dhamma Ahimsa by the royalty helped Buddhism to His ardent devotees including Spassion, gave the world a dhist is the attainment of it. and Metta illumined those lives. It make great headway. His teach- the royalty who had revered rational analysis of the Truth of encouraged learning, advancement ings, the Dhamma found support Him for life, to name a few - Life, gained supreme Enlighten- Summit of perfection of knowledge providing free scope among the many Kshatriyas as King Bimbisara of Magadha ment, came to be identified with to intellectual activities. His opposed to Brahminism who Pasenadi of Kosala, Merchant Buddhahood discovered the Four The Buddha never claimed to words of compassion came as a claimed special powers consider- Prince Anatha Pindika and the Noble Truths. His first sermon to be a supernatural being. He was blessing to thousands of people ing themselves socially superior. Sakyan Queen - Mother Praja- the five ascetics at Isipatana, the son of human parents. The who listened to His Dhamma in This pride and aristocracy of pathi. The Buddha established Dhammachakkapavattana Sutta truth he discovered eternally and Jambudeepa. Brahminism prevalent at the time the idea of the brotherhood of which means the establishment of the absolute truth was not gained favoured the Buddhist movement. all living beings and its aim of Dhamma - the Four Noble Truths, through any external power, but Zenith of her glory The caste distinction and its strict peaceful co-existence the peo- achieved through His clear vision by His effort. The summit of per- sangha grew in numbers. The humanity made Him teach His adherence were never found in ple the devotees showed pro- intellect knowledge and wisdom. fection which He attained with Sakyamuni addressed the disciples message to one and all. He had a Wherever the Buddha’s feet Buddhism. Hatred towards none found devotion and respect. According to Majjima Nikaya, His endeavours was for humanity to spread the doctrine “Go forth life of incessant activity. He touched the soil of India Bud- emphasised in Buddhism with say- Thus, the mission of Bud- the Buddha has said to his disci- at large without any distinction, Bhikkus into the world take the encouraged endlessly trying to dhism gained a foothold and it is ings - “Never in this world does dhism became all-embracing ples that He has the capacity of race, caste or creed. message of Dhamma, explain to offer His wisdom to the people. said that India reached the zenith hatred cease by hatred, hatred and they worshipped Him discovering the truths and also The most striking feature was them what I have taught you for His Dhamma was a practical reli- of her glory during Buddha’s time. wanes by love”, made people lay with heart and soul. The proclaiming them to the world. its rationality and moral welfare. the well-being of the majority”. gion emphasizing morality and Till the age of 80, the Buddha all hopes in Buddhism. This teachings that the Buddha The basic truth - “Dukkha and Ces- Now that the conquest has been Then the Buddha Himself calm right living. The cardinal teach- spent all His time journeying in explains why Buddhism attracted gave the people and the exam- sation of Dukkha”. The burden of made and the summit of bliss has and serene, walked on dusty ings were given in the Four Noble the kingdoms of North India, pre- many and why it spread in North ples of His life are the founda- Dukkha arising from craving to be been reached, the next step was rough roads in North India Truths. He saw life in reality from sent Nepal, Bihar, Bengal and Utt- India rapidly with the world teach- tion for their spiritual develop- got rid of, by following the Eight- its propagation not by force, but preaching His doctrine the Bud- every angle, He saw a change, the ara Pradesh. The language used er the great Master Satta Deva- ments. Hence one of the quali- fold Path (Arya Astangika Maggo). by mere conviction, and its appeal dha’s way of life and His Akalika law of cause and effect (Kamma) by the Master was probably, wide- manussanang, on top, at the ties of the Buddha - “Satta This is possible to those who pos- to mankind. For this there were Dhamma. regaining supreme over the entire ly understood by the natives at height of His spiritual supremacy. Devamanussanang” connotes sess unwavering confidence in the His disciples - Sangha, to spread universe. that time. He preached His abso- overflowing compassion which Buddha-Dhamma and Sangha. This the doctrine. The disciples fol- incessant activity He saw the nature of Sansara in lute Dhamma with His disciples Spiritual development drove every human being to three-fold refuge is the only safe lowed with utmost faith and its true perspective and empha- accompanying Him. The oral tra- worship Him, adore Him and and sure way to achieve the attained Arahantship setting in The Buddha all-wise and com- sised the middle path as the gold- dition was preserved by the Sang- The Buddha to fulfil his mis- revere him with overwhelming Supreme Bliss of Nibbana - the end motion the Sangha Sasana. The passionate, out of deep love for en path which is simple and a ha, the guiding force behind the sion walked through the streets piety and sanctity. w e D nesD ay, m ay 26, 2021 vesak poya page 11 DN

The proper minDfulness is one of The mosT significanT Teachings of BuDDha ThaT has filTereD inTo an accepTeD TraDiTion as well as moDern psychoanalysis. The BuDDha felT ThaT iT was essenTial To culTivaTe The righT minDfulness for all faceTs of life To comprehension examine Things as They are. he encourageD keen ThoughT anD wakefulness of all Things Through The four Basics of minDfulness: conTemplaTion of The BoDy, feeling, of Dhamma sTaTes of minD anD phenomena.

KKS PERERA ing is the need to recognize the reality not mere ending of craving or the effect of blow- land”. Turtle replied, “I just arrived from for all facets of life to examine things as they his, O monks truly is the purely at the scholarly level, but by straight ing out. It is not ‘nothingness’ or Zero-state. there, but how can I make you realize?” The are. He encouraged keen thought and wake- peace, end of all formations, occurrence. confused fish demanded to make out what fulness of all things through the four basics the forsaking of rebirth, fad- Mere extermination precisely dry land means, “can I swim there? of mindfulness: Contemplation of the body, “Ting away of craving, detach- Versed in Tripitaka Does it flow? Is it cool and damp? Does it rise feeling, states of mind and phenomena. ment, extinction is Nibbana.” The Buddha. The authentic meaning or sense of Nibba- up and down in waves?” the turtle replied in In a word, mindfulness is about the percep- The ability to be alive and present is the Senior Bhikkhu Pothila was a learned na, cannot be understood until and unless one the negative, to each query. A delighted fish tiveness of the moment with an approach of most salient feature of the Buddha’s teach- monk who lived during Buddha’s time. He achieves it. It cannot be expressed in their declared, “There is no such position or state openness and originality to all and every ing: be aware, the here and now; awareness was extremely learned in all features of usual speech or by using similes and images. as dry land.” Turtle said, “There is, but, you experience. Through correct mindfulness, of the moment. Tripitaka. Being a ‘Guru’ to a large number It is not a place or a state of affairs analogous never experienced it. You know only water so one can free oneself from fascinations. If you Buddhists of the world commemorate of monks though, he never practised the to a plane of existence such as heaven. It is you reject it because the distinctiveness of are paying attention now with all your being, three events of significance to Buddhists on teachings and did not take Buddha’s advice not mere extermination of ignorance and water is not there, or it is not like water”. with your mind, with your brain, with your Vesak Day, which is common to all tradi- seriously. The Buddha commenced calling yearning. It is only the path leading to it. A We are the result of what we think. It is nerves, with your total energy; listen without tions and sects. the monk, “tuchcha” Pothila, meaning contender must intelligently examine, exam- established in our thoughts. It is made up of comparing, not opposing, not accepting, but Birth, Enlightenment and the Parinbbana Empty Pothila; the trick worked. It must be ine and analyze objects with bare attention, our thoughts. If one acts or talks with a whole- actually with complete awareness: then no -passing away of Buddha. The United emphasized here that theoretical or aca- applying ‘Sathi’ mindfully, devoid of the func- some thought, happiness follows one, like a being or entity is observing, who is listening? Nations resolved in 1999, to internationally demic knowledge of Tripitaka. However tion of conceptual behaviour. Understand shadow that never deserts. If you are paying notice to the howling of observe the day at its headquarters in the deep or insightful, there is no alternative for your nature devoid of any alterations, without Happiness can be accomplished by using dogs at night, listen with your mind, listen US. practice. any discrimination, without any response to knowledge and observance in attaining men- with your heart, with your whole body— The Sanskrit vaisakha or Pali term Nibbana can only be grasped by those who what you conclude you are, is the beginning of tal composure. Equanimity, or peace of mind, don’t say I hate it or I like the sound, just lis- vesakha is the name given to the lunar have achieved it, passing beyond borders. Just austerity. The examination, the alertness, of is attained by shedding oneself from the series ten conscientiously, then there is no observer. month in the Hindu calendar which usually as the fire is not accumulated up in a place but every deliberation, every feeling not to hold of craving that generates dukkha. Therefore, See an image without the interference of falls in May. In Mahayana traditions, the rises when essential conditions are present. back it, not to be in command of it, but to by achieving an intellectual state where you thought. No observer! It is the observer who day is known by its Sanskrit name Vaisakha, To consider different suggestions was as futile observe it, like watching a bird in flight, with- can disengage from all the obsessions, needs produces fear, observer is the hub of thought, while in Theravada it is Vesak. as to speculate about the course in which a fire out any of your prejudice and distortions. and desires of life, you free yourself and attain it is the ‘I’, it is the ‘Me’, the ‘Self’, the Ego; Buddha at first maintained silence, being had vanished once it is doused. Just as a sight- Sermonizing and refining on ‘Nibbana’ has a state of inspirational contentment and well- the observer is the sensor. There is no observ- questioned about the nature of Nibbana, less does not realize what daylight is, the a parable in ‘Amphibian turtle’s futile attempt being. er when there is no thought. It is open for us, knowing that the answer will guide to more mind fogged up by greediness, fury and illu- to enlighten the experiences on land to a fish’! and when we have developed into as gentle, confusion. When asked where the world’s sion will not be able to differentiate the reality The turtle returned to the water after a trip Mindfulness and bare attention as wise, as compassionate, as pure, and as end Buddha said, “It is in this one fathomed of Nibbana. It cannot be evaluated against around the land, to be inquired by the fish, absolutely self-controlled as an Arhant, then body with awareness, that I assert is the anything, which comes within the reach of our why he was missing for a while. Turtle Mindfulness is one of the most significant shall we be acquainted with, then shall we existence of the world’, its termination, and intellect. responded that it had been on the dry territo- teachings of Buddha that has filtered into an comprehend ‘Nibbana’. the path leading to termination.” Thus Nib- Nibbana can be achieved in this very life; ry. The fish who was oblivious about ‘dry accepted tradition as well as modern psy- You will have to Comprehend Dhamma in bana does not be present separately from it is a positive ‘state’, which has to be real- land’, cried out; “What do you mean by dry choanalysis. The Buddha felt that it was achieving Nibbana. ourselves. The deep root of Buddha’s teach- ized by the mind. It is not ‘emptiness’ or land? There cannot be anything termed dry essential to cultivate the right mindfulness May all beings be happy! from minDfulness To righT minDfulness MEdiTaTion for JuSTiN WhiTAKER uddhism, as a broad and diverse 2,500-year-old tradi- Eco-anxiETy tion, has developed a number B of meanings and practices DEKilA ChuNgyAlPA deriving from the Buddha’s teachings co-anxiety is fear, grief, on sati. Even the Buddha’s teachings as and distress regarding presented in the Pali Canon offer sub- the environmental and tleties and nuances that are often E climate crises we face glossed over in modern presentations of today. Tonglen is a Tibetan Bud- mindfulness and meditation. dhist meditation practice that One of the most vivid metaphors focuses on giving and receiving, given for sati is that of a cowherd watch- and can be particularly helpful ing over his cows. With fields of lush when dealing with eco-anxiety grass nearby, he cannot be openly mind- and climate despair. This practice ful, and instead has to vigilantly multi- was given to me by Ogyen Trinley task as he deals with cows potentially Dorje, His Holiness the 17th Kar- eating the grass. A certain feeling of mapa, as a way to transform eco- anxiety might even be deciphered here. anxiety into the motivation to But when the grass has been cut (or the heal others—and is particularly temptations removed from the medita- useful for environmentalists and tor’s mind), one can rest with gentle climate activists who might be open awareness. In the Micchatta Sutta: On Wrong- ly surveying one’s mental horizon, sam- suffering from burnout. For those This is mindfulness. Yet, as Hozan ness, the Buddha gives a list that con- ma-sati is that wide-angle lens, well of us who aren’t on the front lines Alan Senauke wrote in 2011, there is an nects wrong parts of the eight-fold path polished with a larger, higher megapixel but still feel overwhelmed by important difference between mindful- (expanded out to 10-fold, adding wrong sensor behind it (or something like these issues, this practice pro- your eco-anxiety with compas- inhale, and to heal them when you ness and what Buddhists seek to culti- knowledge and wrong release [miccha- that). vides an easy way to meet our sion. exhale. If it helps, you can imag- vate. At a meeting of mindfulness teach- nanissa and micchavimutti] at the end). Right mindfulness, as opposed to fears of climate change with an Whatever responses arise, ine their suffering in the form of a ers and practitioners, he notes that the It states that through them one is led plain old mindfulness, is thus a power- attitude of curiosity and gentle- whatever emotions come up, fog or vapor, and as you inhale, Dalai Lama was asked if mindfulness ultimately to failure (viradhana). ful enhancement of one’s mind and abil- ness. whatever fears show up, let it all you receive their suffering; as you itself was inherently ethical. His Holi- “Right” aspects, on the other hand, ity to progress upon the path. But it Please start by grounding your- flow out of you, and into the exhale, you give them compas- ness responded that “even a suicide proceed through the same 10-fold path, requires one to cultivate other aspects self with the earth beneath you. earth. sion. bomber would likely have to cultivate each one proceeding or originating of the path and thus takes on a much Sit comfortably with your spine Notice your incoming breath— This may bring up fear or anxi- some sort of mindfulness.” (pahoti) from the previous. There at more decidedly religious sense. straight yet relaxed. Extend your the air entering your nostrils, ety. If that happens, simply go least, wrong mindfulness simply leads awareness to how your body your mouth, filling up your belly. back to grounding yourself with Attentiveness of from wrong effort and on to wrong con- Secular society touches your seat or the floor and All that oxygen that keeps you the earth and rest in her compas- mindfulness centration, leading ultimately to “wrong how through these layers, you are alive comes from the plants, the sion for you. When you are ready, release,” which we can only imagine is As Buddhism becomes modernized rooted to the earth. Be aware of trees, the oceans, and the plank- come back to this practice of giv- Senauke quotes contemporary teach- no release at all. in its encounters with Western religions how the earth holds you up. ton that surround us. All the food ing and receiving. Give them com- er Andrew Olendzki: “True mindfulness and thought, and as mindfulness is we eat, the clothes we wear, the passion and receive their suffer- is deeply and inextricably embedded in great Forty widely embraced by secular society Mourning the loss houses that shelter us come from ing. the notion of wholesomeness. Just as a (and by people of non-Buddhist reli- nature. The very basis of our lives You can do tonglen practice for tree removed from the forest is no On the other hand, right factors pro- gions), we will see how much the There are many possible rea- is interdependence with the earth. as long as you feel comfortable. longer a tree but a piece of lumber, so ceed through the common eight and “right” in right mindfulness is main- sons why you have clicked on this Rest in this awareness and relax At the end of this practice, also the caring attentiveness of mindful- then right knowledge based on right tained. Already, secular Buddhists ques- particular practice today. You may here, trusting that you are indivis- please reverse the direction of giv- ness, extracted from its matrix of concentration, culminating in right tion certain aspects of what has been be overwhelmed by the news, you ible from nature. ing and receiving. It is time again wholesome co-arising factors, degener- release. This is all elaborated upon in traditionally understood as “right view.” may be mourning the loss of lives, Breathe in the earth’s compas- for you to receive the earth’s com- ates into mere attention.” the Maha-cattarisaka Sutta: Discourse And many mindfulness teachers either you may be afraid of what the sion and breathe out gratitude. passion and to offer your grati- So mindfulness clearly is not the end on the Great Forty. explicitly or implicitly incorporate Bud- future brings, or it may be some- Now comes the hard part. Visu- tude in return. Take a moment to of the journey. Buddhism differentiates When specifically defining samma dhist ethics and Buddhist philosophy thing else entirely. Eco-anxiety alize ONE place or being that is hold in the earth’s compassion for between mindfulness and “right” mind- sati, the Buddha use the terms “ardent- into their teachings. can manifest in many ways includ- suffering from environmental and you. fulness. So we should look at the role of ly” (atapi) and thorough understanding In one final instalment in this series, ing grief, anger, vulnerability, sad- climate harm. It could be a per- As you emerge from this prac- “samma” in understanding “right mind- or “discrimination” (sampajanna): I will examine the place of ethics more ness, fear. son, a river, animals, or your com- tice, note what it feels like to fulness.” To begin, samma, is usually And what, monks, is right mindful- specifically in relation to mindfulness However it manifests, whether munity. Bring to mind how envi- transform your eco-anxiety into translated as “right,” but it also carries ness? Here, oh monks, a monk dwells and right mindfulness. This is because in emotion, or sensation, I want ronmental degradation and cli- the motivation to heal others. connotations of “balanced, proper, and ardently, with thorough understanding ethics is traditionally presented as the you to observe it from a short mate change affects them. When Set the intention to return to thorough.” and mindfulness, observing the body in foundation of the Buddhist path, ahead distance and without letting it the distress arises, focus on your this practice whenever you feel As we’ve seen, there is a range of the body, having removed [restrained] of meditative cultivation itself. Thus, wash you away. desire to heal and to care for this depleted. You can also practice meanings and often technical nuances greed and doubt towards the world; from a Buddhist point of view, the wide When you have a good hold of entity and nurture that into com- short moments of giving gratitude to the term sati, from memory to mind- dwelling observing feelings in feelings embrace of meditation might be seen as your eco-anxiety, acknowledge it passion. and receiving compassion from fulness and including a clearing away of ardently, with thorough understanding a good thing, but also a case of putting with respect. It is a completely the earth throughout your day. desires that might distract attention. and mindfulness . . . (Mahasatipatthana the cart before the horse. valid response to an existential giving and receiving For those of you who feel ener- This kind of mindfulness needn’t be Sutta, DN 22) If Buddhist ethics can be understood, threat. It means your inner warn- gized by this practice, a next step particularly religious in any way. But So right mindfulness suggests a more practiced, and promoted in the world ing system is working and your Begin to move into tonglen, or might be taking practical action to “right” mindfulness, or samma-sati, has developed or integrated practice; taking with the same vigor that mindfulness emotions come from a place of giving and receiving. From a place help protect what you love. its place specifically in the Buddha’s sati, which is already in itself positive, has seen in the last decade, one can love and compassion for people, of caring and compassion, imag- May this practice help you and, path (magga) toward awakening. Here, and wedding it to further factors that only imagine what positive effects this for wildlife, and for nature. Take ine yourself with the ability to through you, may it heal the earth. it can be explicitly contrasted to strengthen its effect. To borrow our could have for individuals, societies, however long you need to honor draw out their suffering when you - Tricycle “wrong” or “false” (miccha) mindful- image from Bhikkhu Analayo of sati as and the planet. ness. a sort of wide-angle camera lens broad- - www.buddhistdoor.net Dn page 12 vesak poya w ednesday, May 26, 2021

Let our thoughts of boundless love and compassion pervade the whole world - above, below and across- without any obstruction, without any hatred and any enmity. Let us cultivate unbounded love towards all beings without exception. Let our hearts be fountains of metta even when it concerns our sustenance.

Dr AmAl GunAsenA heartless acts. But the consumers of such his world no matter how far meat products who will ultimately enjoy this advanced with technology, artifi- animal flesh as an important part of their cial intelligence and space travel, meal fail to realise that they will also have to T etc., without the other living suffer the consequences of being a party and beings living around us and without their contributors to those killings. daily presence and beautiful musical voices While monks and nuns were not tradition- touching our ears with such sweetness, will ally proscribed by the Buddha to eat meat be a barren, desolate, uninspiring, heartless, under certain conditions such as because uncharitable, intolerant and ungracious Loving kindness they were eating leftovers and should not be place. a burden to society, the farming methods of As the most advanced group of the living today, as well as the fact that food is pre- species, we should have boundless, self-cul- pared specially for monks and nuns, force a tivated and deep and sincere respect to reconsideration of this point. Without the honour the lives of all: the footless, biped, demand for these animal products, whether four-footed and multi footed wherever they cannot be Locked down it is the parts of the body for food or any are present and choose to live. The Buddha other purpose, these animals would not admonishes his disciples and the laity to such a person to be a brahmana, a noble and According to the reports, at least 20,000 majority of these unfortunate birds spend have been slaughtered, particularly at such a abstain from destroying life and to develop righteous person.” - The Buddha. buffaloes and also pigs, goats, chickens and their entire lives in industrial sheds and colossal scale at Christmas. The greater the and spread loving-kindness to all living pigeons were brutally slaughtered on this never go outside. Between 20000 - 25000 demand for meat products the more the beings at all times: All living beings day for the puja. It is said that some animals birds may be confined to just one small cage. slaughter of animals there will be. May my loving kindness spread to all liv- were brought from mainland India as well. In the USA, 46 million turkeys are eaten ing beings who are footless, biped, four- It is also pertinent to include here the In July 2015 this festival was banned after each Thanksgiving Day for the reason of Precise moment footed and multi footed. noble advice given to the then the King of protests from India and other countries and peace and goodwill. According to data, 550 May all living beings wherever they live to Lanka Devanampiyatissa by the Arahant also following a major thaumaturgic earth- million sheep are killed each year world- The Buddha said: “Just as milk does not enjoy happiness, always encounter the joy of Mahinda who brought the teachings of the quake hitting and causing devastation to wide. The age of lambs at slaughter varies curdle immediately as it is drawn out from living and never have to face pain, loss, fear Buddha to the island in 250 BCE.: some parts of the country. It is believed that widely from as young as 10 weeks of age to the cow, an unwholesome sinful deed of life and frightfulness. “Your Majesty, the birds that glide the in 2019, this festival took place in Nepal on 12 months. Veal occupies a favourite plate (paapa)does not instantly bear fruit. It will skies and animals that roam the forests have a smaller scale as the believers were not yet on many dinner tables. Calves are slaugh- lie like fire under ashes until the precise Devoid of external authority an equal right to live and enjoy happiness ready to abandon their ritual. tered at 16 to 18 weeks of age and many are moment to follow the doer to burn him. anywhere in this country as you have. The References to animal sacrifices in many exported from Britain to the European “All mental phenomena have mind as The Gauthama Buddha, the founder of land belongs to the people and equally to all countries including Greece, Rome and the Union on regular basis. About 15% of veal their forerunner. Mind is supreme and Buddhism, can be undoubtedly regarded as other living beings. You are only its trustee.” Middle Eastern countries appear in early calves are slaughtered at less than 3 weeks mind-made are they. If one speaks or acts the only religious teacher, a teacher par According to the Buddha’s teachings, writings. In the New Testament, there is a old. The majority of them are unable to walk with an evil mind, (dukkha) pain and suffer- excellence, who was human and who did not there is another rationale for the practice of reference to the parents of Jesus sacrificing even to their killing corner as their bodies ing follow him or her just as the wheel of a claim to be other than a human. The Buddha non-harm towards all living beings. Once two doves (Luke 2:24) and the Apostle Paul are severely underdeveloped. When it comes cart follows the feet of the animal who also claimed no inspiration from any exter- when the Buddha was visiting a park with performing Nazirite vow even after the to pigs and chicken, 178 million broiler draws it”. nal authority such as God. In the Buddha’s five hundred bhikkhus, he asked the bhik- death of Christ. The Christian view is that chickens and 121 pigs are killed worldwide It is also very surprising that none of the sermons, he only referred to him as ‘sattha khus to look at the park where different the killing of animals for food does not vio- for human enjoyment. To give some idea of religious sermons delivered during Christ- deva manussanan’ - a pure and simple teach- kinds of animals - deer, goats, pigeons, pea- late the fifth commandment and it applies to meat consumption per capita, the leading mas or on other important days no mention er, sattha. The Buddha had no fears or anxi- cocks, cows, etc. freely roam and play. human life only. According to a learned countries in this respect are mentioned of being made on spreading wholehearted eties of any kind. He was always calm and The Buddha said: “It is not easy bhikkhus Christian priest, “It is morally acceptable to below: loving-kindness towards all living beings at serene. The Buddha saw things as they were to find a being who in this samsara (cycle of use animals for food. They are part of the Denmark - 145.9 million least on the day Jesus was born and to give (yatha bhutam). He was described by his births) has not previously been your mother, creation that God gives us to sustain us. Luxembourg - 141.7 million such animals freedom to roam freely and to contemporaries as ‘ever smiling’ (mihita- father, brother, sister, wife, husband, son, Many of the rituals of the Old Testament Cyprus - 131.3 be with their parents and young ones whilst pubbhamgama). All his teachings that deliv- daughter, teacher and friend. Therefore, centred on the sacrificing (killing) of ani- USA - 124.8 comparing those animals to oneself. ered for more than 45 years wandering from when a person kills and eats any of these mals which God certainly condoned”. Here Saint Lucia - 124.1 May this world be a safe and enjoyable place to place all over India were without beings, thereby he or she may be slaughter- one can argue that if God`s wish was to use Bahamas - 123.6 place to live and prosper not only for us but any slightest bias or distinction of class or ing and eating a being who was once his or animals for food for the sustenance of human Spain - 118.6 also for millions of animals who have the creed and were inspired and perfectly for- her mother, brother, sister, teacher, son and beings, then why are these helpless animals, Canada - 108.1 equal right like us to be here and to enjoy mulated on human experience and intelli- so on. Further, he or she kills a body that as we can see, make agonizing cries and take France - 101.1 their lives in full. We must seriously think gence. was once my own, for all elemental earth every effort to escape death until the last Hungary - 100.7 about whether we have progressed to be When we regard spiritual teachings on and water previously served as part of my moment of their life by every possible means (Source - FAO) any better from our primitive days as we spreading universal kindness to every living body and all elemental fire and mind have instead of submitting to God’s wish. In dairies that do produce milk, cows are have not yet given up our devour, ravenous- being (sabbe pana), the Buddha stands peer- served as my basic substance.” It is this spiritually condoned belief that made repeatedly pregnant and calves are ness and carnivorousness when there are less and unequalled. The reasons are obvi- As the Buddha preaches in the Noble has widely spread throughout the Christian then slaughtered immediately after birth in environmentally friendly, better, kinder and ous. As a young prince, the Buddha to be Eightfold Path, Right Action and Right Live- world which has led to celebrate the birth of front of the cows’ very own eyes, with the more noble choices readily available in lived in luxury, he saw the inequality, suffer- lihood aim at promoting morally upright, Jesus with a family feast having a roasted cows moaning in grief as a human mother abundance. Because of our destruction of ing and vicissitudes of life not only of man- honourable and peaceful conduct. The Bud- Turkey as the main dish and also supple- would. Unlike the traditional South Asian habitat to fuel meat-eating, we have lost kind but also of all other living beings. As a dha advised his followers (both bhikkhus menting it with all other kinds of meat such method of gaining small amounts of pre- enormous numbers of species and endan- wanderer for six years all over India in and laypeople) to abstain from destroying as beef, pork, sausages, chicken, lamb, cious milk so that the calves can continue to gered all wildlife: 60% of all mammals on search of unsurpassed peace and the abso- life, from taking property not given, from bacon, duck, venison and mutton, etc. Close suckle, modern farming methods through- Earth are livestock. Mostly cattle and pigs, lute truth, Prince Siddhartha witnessed and dishonest dealings, from illegitimate sexual to Christmas, it is known that in turkey out the world follow this method to supply 36% are human and just 4% are wild ani- experienced the pains of life and the inexo- conduct, from uttering falsehood and taking farms these animals are regularly fed with the greed for dairy products even though the mals. rable nature of the life of all. intoxicant drinks that can cause loss of hormone mixed food to increase their growth hormone in milk, designed to make Let our thoughts of boundless love and The Buddha’s teachings on ahimsa and memory. Right Livelihood aims to promote weight to enable the farmers to get more calves put on weight, is dangerous for adults compassion pervade the whole world - universal kindness - not to harm or kill - unharmful, peaceful and honourable living: profits. known to enhance the growth of cancer above, below and across- without any founded by example and precept and apply to abstain from trading arms, weapons of It is a widely-spread practice that in most tumors, among other problems, and is con- obstruction, without any hatred and any to the entirety of all living beings. A layman any kind, animals or animal products, killing supermarkets in the U.K and elsewhere, tributing to the new obesity epidemic in enmity. Let us cultivate unbounded love named Dhammika once visited the Buddha any animal for any purpose, selling intoxi- consumers ask for the largest turkeys with- China and other Asian countries as people towards all beings without exception. Let for his advice on how to lead an honourable cating drinks, poison and cheating in any out realising that it would not be humanly switch their diet to a more European/Ameri- our hearts be fountains of metta even when life. kind which can harm to others including possible to eat the flesh of such a large bird. can style diet. it concerns our sustenance. The Buddha advised him firstly to develop animals. These beautiful and innocent birds are This happened about fifteen years ago in wholehearted kindness to all living beings: “ Animal sacrifice for religious purposes, slaughtered primarily for the enjoyment of Pain and fright Hong Kong. An American academic was on Do not destroy or cause to destroy any form killing for enjoyment, eating as a main dish human beings on religiously important days holiday in Kowloon and on this particular of life, or sanction the acts of those who do at celebratory dinner feasts and other cere- and it is for this purpose that they are being The killing of animals for religious obser- day he had planned to meet one of his Chi- so. Refrain even from hurting any creature monies all over the world such as Easter, bred. Their lives are very short and reared vances (ritual killings) are common in most nese colleagues for lunch. It was a beautiful both those that are strong and those that are Christmas and Thanksgiving only for the Christmas market. What would religions. The followers of Islam who engage sunny day and they decided to have their weak and those who always tremble at the This provides the subject that animal sac- normally and ethically be expected on such in the Hajj (pilgrimage) are obliged to sacri- meal outside on the grounds of the restau- sight of the slightest danger. A person who rifice is a common and highlighted feature a religiously important day like the birth of fice a lamb or goat during the celebration of rant. The American was thoroughly enjoy- causes pain to any living being and who has of the festivals and celebrations of many Jesus is not to harm or kill any animal but to the Eid al-Adha. They do not believe in ing and admiring the freely flying and sing- no compassion for all that live is to be religions, but not for the Buddhist festivals direct boundless hearts towards them and if stunning animals to minimize pain and ing of exotic birds around them and in par- known as `depraved`. that fall on the most significant days of the they are trapped with fear of death to release fright before their slaughter for food pur- ticular one beautiful small bird picking the In the famous Karaniya Metta Sutta, the Buddhist calendar. The Buddha rejected all them to be free. Whether it is for food, game poses. There is nothing against stunning crumbs from the tables and taking to feed Buddha preaches that: “just as a mother kinds of animal sacrifice prevalent widely in or any kind of pleasure or trade, the killing animals in the sacred texts of either reli- her chicks on a nearby tree. His friend would protect her only child even at the risk his time in India. Later in the 3rd century of animals constitutes a highly immoral act gion. ordered the dishes as the waiter could speak of her own life, even so, let one cultivate a BCE, Emperor king Asoka prohibited sell- and it will fall into the same category of Unfortunately, there is no single country only Chinese. boundless heart towards all beings.” ing or killing of animals for any purpose in animal sacrifice similar to Gadhimai in in the world in which killing of animals for As they were leaving after the meal, the The Dhammapada, which contains the his vast kingdom extending from India to Nepal. food, game or pleasure and selling them or American told his friend that he very much essence of the Buddha’s teachings on vari- the Far East. But in India, this practice of their products are banned. Although dinner liked the soup and wanted to know what was ous aspects of life, has many references to slaughtering animals to please Hindu gods/ Human consumption tables of millions of people in the world it. His friend said that it was one of the deli- metta - universal kindness. The Buddha goddesses has been continuing until today. today are the ultimate destination of the cacies in that province and was a freshly preaches that every living being fears vio- Until 2019 in Nepal, the birthplace of Prince It is humanly inconceivable to believe that product of this mammoth scale animal sac- made bird soup. The American was shocked lence and punishment; to every living being, Siddhartha who became the Gauthama Bud- staggering numbers of animals from the rifice, it is only a small number of very and horrified and left the scene immediately life is dear and precious. Comparing one’s dha, the Gadhimai festival of animal sacri- smallest to the largest living in both land ordinary and poor human beings are lamenting what a painful and abhorrent act own life with others, one should not kill nor fice continued. and sea are bred and slaughtered for human engaged in this sinful act of slaughtering that he had been put into. He never recov- should cause to kill another. consumption both in the developing and them. ered from that shameful and hurtful experi- No other religious teacher has ever said mammoth sacrifice also in the developed world. According to A single abattoir kills thousands of sheep ence and vowed never to eat an animal that to compare oneself with others before the numbers published, 15 million turkeys and lambs every day. These animals’ very product again. committing harm to another. This was an animal sacrificial ceremony were slaughtered in the U.K. last year - 10 last moments are spent surrounded by the May all beings be happy, safe and secure! “He or she who loves all living beings and to the Hindu Goddess Gadhimai. People in million killed for the Christmas market stench of blood and their faeces and the (The writer is Senior Teaching Fellow at refrain from causing injury or violence to Nepal believed that this mammoth animal alone. Some 9 million British turkeys are screams of their own and companions. SOAS and Visiting Senior Research Fellow in any, whether weak or strong; small or large sacrifice to the goddess Gadhimai will end reared each year for Christmas. Britons tra- According to Buddhism, these killers will the Department of Theology and Religious and does not kill or cause to kill any, I regard evil and bring prosperity to the country. ditionally plum for a 6-7 kg large bird. The have to suffer the results of their brutal and Studies at King’s College, University of London) wednesday, maye 26, 2021 sport page 13 DN SuMudu PrAdeeP - an outstanding Twenty athletes selected for sri Lankan powerLifter Crysbro-NOC scholarship

receives an accumulated amount of Rs. 47,000 per month for their training. The Crysbro- In addition, two athletes Senaka National Olympic Gunaratne (athletics) and Milka Gehani Committee’s (NOC’s) (gymnastics) received scholarships under ‘Next Olympic Champ’ pro- this programme. gramme is now completed and Describing the present status of the it could be described as one of the programme one of the senior organisers most unique and futuristic concepts said: “Right now these young athletes are that have been set on course in Sri engaged only in training as a result of the Lanka so far in the sports realm. prevailing pandemic situation so, keeping Sumudu Pradeep, Pic by Upananda Jayasundera, kandy Sports The main aim of this programme is a tab on improvement is rather hypotheti- Special Corr to help and sustain identified junior cal but only the competition gets back to athletes of Sri Lanka and elevate them to normal it would be business as usual.” UPANANDA JAyASUNDERA, Kandy Sports Special Corr be the next contenders of the top tier ath- The recipients: Kumar Danushan Thirty-two-year-old Sumudu Pradeep is an outstand- letes and produce medal winners with eye (Golf), Amandhika Amarasinghe (shoot- ing powerlifter who became the first Sri Lankan to win for the third Olympic Medal in Sri Lankan ing), Tehan Sanchith Rayman (boxing), the 59kg event at the Asian Pacific Classics Powerlifting history. Nethmi Nimthera (boxing), Ravindu Contest held at Gold Coast, Australia in 2019. Initially, the Selection Committee Sithum Jayasundara (athletics), Tharushi Pradeep started weightlifting under the coaching of selected 12 athletes and added the Karunarathne (athletics), Deshan Kapila Athula Wijewickrema, talented weightlifter cum coach remaining eight just prior to island- Kumara (weightlifting), Sachini Rajika at the YMCA, Kandy in 2010 and he changed into pow- wide travel restrictions. Laksarani (weightlifting), Senura Dilanka erlifting in the following year. Shehan Ambepitiya, who was one Silva (table tennis), Nadila Nethviru After joining the Army, he showed his real talent and of the live wire selectors of this pro- (gymnastics), Tharinda Mandara Prema- he was unbeaten in his weight class of 59kg from 2011 gramme, described the programme kumara (taekwondo), Senori Sasadara up to date. in this manner; “I ended up winning Fernando (taekwondo), Sithuli Sodithya In 2016, he established two Sri Lanka records at the a lot of international medals those (athletics), Ishara Samanmalee (athlet- National Powerlifting contest held at the Maithree Hall, days but I did not have the cushion- ics), Vinod Ariyawansa (athletics), Madu- Bandaragama. ing and backing that this programme shika Premarathna (weightlifting), Biman- During a period of 10 years of powerlifting, Pradeep could offer to hone my skills.” di Bandara (table tennis), Anju Minuwan- has renewed 21 Sri Lanka records and established four Milka Gehani has already qualified for dana de Silva (weightlifting), Wenuka new records in 2016 at the powerlifting meet held at the Olympics while Tharushi Karunaratne Kithnula (tennis) and Nethmi Ahinsa Bandaragama. The records established were 192.05kg in has already qualified for the World Junior Fernando (wrestling). squat, 117.5kg in bench press and 225kg in deadlift with Athletic Championships and both are Co-opted scholarships: Senaka a full total of 535kgs. Milka Gehani recipients of this scholarship. Gunaratne (athletics) and Milka Gehani He renewed these records in 2017 at a meet held at Under this programme, each athlete (gymnastics). (D.R) Tharushi karunaratne the same venue. His present Sri Lanka records are squat 205kgs, bench press 125kgs, deadlift 225.5kgs and alto- gether a total of 555.5kgs in the 59kg weight class. Sports Ministry to fund SLTA Daraz official overseas team Squad Training Programme sponsor of Sri Lanka Cricket Daraz, recently announced their role as the official overseas team spon- sor of Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) for 2021. Daraz will be the official overseas team sponsor of SLC for the remain- der of the year 2021, which will include high profile series’ against Bangladesh, England, South Africa and Scotland. The Daraz Group, a subsidiary of global e-commerce giant Alibaba, views cricket sponsorships as one of the key pillars of Daraz’s brand strat- egy. Director General Ministry of Sports Amal Edirisooriya and Director General Ministry of Sports Amal Edirisooriya (left) In response to the love for the game President SLTA Iqbal Bin Issack signing the agreement and President, SLTA Iqbal Bin Issack exchanging documents by our customers in many of our mar- kets, Daraz also sponsors the National Daraz will be the official overseas team sponsor of SLC Cricket Team of Bangladesh as well. The Sri Lanka Tennis Association time the SLTA is signing a long-term The Minister of Youth Affairs and As such, marking a first in cricket ment to that plan and vision. We spon- sorship. They partnered SLC, during (SLTA) and the Ministry of Sports agreement with the Ministry of Sports Sports, Namal Rajapaksa, Director in the region, both teams at the Sri sor the Sri Lanka Cricket team as they the England Tour of Sri Lanka, which signed an agreement for the High- for the players' development. General - Ministry of Sports, Amal Lanka-Bangladesh One Day Interna- represent our country overseas and took place in January 2021, as well as Performance Training Programme at Once the COVID-19 pandemic situ- Edirisooriya, President - National tional (ODI) series, will be sponsored solidify our support and commitment the Lanka Premier League which took the SLTA premises in Green Path ation is controlled, the National Squad Olympic Committee of Sri Lanka, by the same company. to Sri Lanka.” place in November and December yesterday. Programme will also be started soon. Suresh Subramanium, President - Rakhil Fernando, Managing Direc- The Chief Executive Officer of SLC 2020. Under this agreement the Sports The SLTA thanked the Ministry of SLTA Iqbal Bin Issack, General Secre- tor of Daraz, stated: “It is our vision Ashley de Silva observed: “By part- Daraz also co-sponsored the Test Ministry will be funding partially as a Sports for joining hands with them for tary - SLTA, Pradeep Goonasekera, a to see Daraz grow from strength to nering with SLC, Daraz has made an matches of the Sri Lankan tour of part of the National Squad Training this initiative and hoped for a success- few acclaimed tennis players of Sri strength and ingrain itself in the fab- excellent move, which I am certain South Africa in December 2020 at Programme. ful partnership in the journey to take Lanka and members of the Sports ric of culture within the markets we will benefit their brand immensely.” Centurion and Johannesburg, South This occasion also marks the first Sri Lanka Tennis to a higher level Council were present at this event. operate.” “This sponsorship is a testa- This is not Daraz’s debut cricket spon- Africa. Sri Lanka played their first unofficial Test against England at Bogambara

HAfIz MARIkAR since 1911-22. Other teams who vis- Majid khan by Clive Lloyd, the West Indies played The first unofficial Test match ited from England were Sir Julian two First-Class matches against Sri between Sri Lanka and England was Cahn's XI in 1936-37, D. H Robins' Pakistan captained by Majid Khan, Lanka, that were both drawn and a played in Kandy at the Bogambara Team in 1977-78 and English Cricket visited Sri Lanka in April 1979 to play limited over match that the West Stadium. According to history, the Team in India in 1984-85. a limited over match versus the Sri Indies won by eight wickets. first cricket match took place in 1832. The first Indian Team to step into Lanka National Team. The West Indies visited Sri Lanka In 1888-89, an English Team led by the country was Elphinstone College, The match at the P. Sara Stadium in February 1979. The main First- George Vernon toured Ceylon and Bombay, in 1903-04. went in favour of Pakistan by 55 runs Class match with Sri Lanka at the P. played a game against the All-Ceylon In 1945 the Indian National Team after scoring 164 for eight in their 40 Sara Stadium in Colombo was drawn. Team at Bogambara. visited Ceylon in April 1945 and overs. Sri Lanka in reply could only The West Indies had previously In 1890, the Australian Team on played one First-Class match against manage 109 for eight. drawn a warm-up game against the their way to England played in Ceylon at the P. Sara Stadium. The West Indies Cricket Team vis- Sri Lanka Board President's XI at the The main entrance of the Bogambara Stadium Colombo. Douglas Jardine's infamous The match ended in a draw due to ited Ceylon in February 1949 and CCC Grounds. ‘bodyline team’ was in Ceylon in bad weather. In 1956-57 India visited the first man from the Southern match by an innings and 192 runs. played two First-Class matches versus The Zimbabwe National Cricket 1932-33. Ceylon in 1956 and played two inter- Province to play for All-Ceylon. In Pakistan won the second match by 10 Ceylon. Team toured Sri Lanka in December Sri Lanka won the ICC Trophy in national matches versus Ceylon at the reply, New Zealand made 177 for five wickets despite some good batting by West Indies won the first match at 1983. At this time, Sri Lanka had just 1979 and on July 21, 1981, Sri Lanka P. Sara Stadium. wickets with Vivien 68 not out and Ceylon in their first innings. the P. Sara Stadium by an innings and achieved Test status but Zimbabwe were admitted to Full Membership of The first match was drawn and the Walter Hadlee, father of Richard, In 1972-73, Pakistan visited Sri 22 runs and the second match at the had not. the ICC and were awarded Test sta- second too ended in a draw. In 1973- making 18. Lanka once again in November 1972 same venue was drawn. The Zimbabwe Team played two tus. 74 India toured again and played two That team also consisted of such to play a First-Class match versus the The West Indies visited Ceylon in First-Class matches versus the Sri In the early days, several Australian First-Class and two limited over well-known names as Martin Donnel- Sri Lanka National Team at the P. January 1967 and played a First-Class Lanka Board President's XI at the De Teams stopped here and played matches versus Sri Lanka and two ly and Mervyn Wallace, all of whom Sara Stadium. match at the P. Sara Stadium against Soysa Stadium and against the Sri matches in Ceylon while travelling to further First-Class matches versus the had done so well in England just a few The match was drawn after being Ceylon. The match was drawn. Lanka XI at the P. Sara Stadium. Both England and back. Sri Lanka Board President's XI. weeks before. affected by rain. Then in 1975-76 The West Indies visited Sri Lanka games were drawn. Zimbabwe also In the aftermath of World War II, In 1984-85, New Zealand played Pakistan toured Sri Lanka in January in February, 1975 as part of a wider played three limited over matches came the Australian Services Cricket SSC Grounds two limited over internationals versus to play three First-Class and two lim- tour of India and Pakistan. Captained against Sri Lanka. Team to Ceylon and India in 1945-46, Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka won the first ited over matches. featuring Keith Miller who scored a India defeated Sri Lanka at the match by four wickets and New Zea- Sri Lanka won the opening First- century in Colombo. SSC Grounds by six wickets but the land won the second by seven wick- Class match at the CCC Grounds by It was not until 1969-70 that anoth- other three First-Class games were ets. four wickets and then Pakistan won er Australian Team landed in Ceylon. impacted by the weather and were The Pakistan cricket team visited the second match at the same venue This team played one game against drawn. Ceylon in April 1949 to play two First- by the identical margin. the Ceylon Team before leaving for New Zealand made a trip in 1937 Class matches versus Ceylon. In between, Pakistan played the Sri India for a five-Test series. and the All-Ceylon Team made 227 Both games were played at the P. Lanka Board President's XI at the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) for eight with De Saram top scoring Sara Stadium. Pakistan led by Asgiriya Stadium in Kandy and they Teams have visited on 23 occasions with a typical 90. Douglas Dias was Mohammad Saeed, won the first won this match by seven wickets. The inside of the Bogambara Stadium Susal to the fore at Asian Hybrid Chess Tourney

DHAMMIkA RATNAwEERA finish with a draw against the with a ranking of 63 and now he has (2,536) from Mongolia in a mara- Marticio Jerramy (1,695) of the Phil- Sri Lankan FIDE Master Susal de Kazakhstan International Master, moved to rank 39 which is the best thon game which lasted almost five ippines. Silva of Nalanda College once again Assaubayeva Bibisara (2,381). Earli- rank among the four Sri Lankan hours. However, Minul Doluweera unfor- stole the limelight on the fourth day er, in round one, de Silva drew with players competing in this tourna- Earlier, in the first-round he defeat- tunately lost to Grandmaster Gulmi- of the Asia Continental Hybrid Uzbekistan FIDE Master Sattarov ment. ed a Grandmaster and already he has ra Davuleova (2,285) from Kazakh- Chess Championship, which contin- Bobir and in the third-round he won Meanwhile, the National champi- proved his ability to be a champion stan. Liyanage is ranked 53 while ued yesterday. against the Mongolian FIDE Master on and Skipper Ranindu Liyanage in Sri Lanka. Doluweera and Denuwan are in 67 The fifteen-year-old figured in a Chinguun Sumiya. also scored a half a point draw with Theekshana Denuwan of Ananda and 68 ranking positions after round- tough battle and finally managed to De Silva started this tournament Grandmaster Batchuluun Tsegmed College recorded a draw against four of this tournament. Susal de Silva weD neSDay, may 26, 2021 page 14

Sports Editor : 011 242 9223 Fax : +941122343694 e mail : [email protected] Bangladesh clinch maiden

SportS Diary (May 26) ForEiGN EVENtS CHESS ODI series win over Sri Lanka Asian Continental Hybrid Championship CriCKEt Mushfiqur Rahim ODI, was dismissed for 125 off 127 Sri Lanka's main area of concern was played one of his best deliveries as the hosts were bowled out the lack of partnerships during their Ireland Women vs Scotland Women One Day International for 246 in 48.1 overs. The diminutive 33-run loss in the first ODI and there (3rd T20I) at Belfast (ODI) knocks as Bang- batsman went at the crease after just was no improvement in that regard in tENNiS ladesh defeated Sri seven deliveries and got out as the last yesterday's game as well. The Bangla- (WTA, Outdoor, Clay): Lanka by 103 runs on man, trying to clear mid-off against desh spinners got into action immedi- Internationaux de Strasbourg at the Duckworth and Dushmantha Chameera, in the process ately with Mehedi Hasan Miraz and Tennis Club of Strasbourg Lewis scoring method in collecting more than half the runs of Shakib Al Hasan scalping two quick (Grand Slam Qualification, the second match of the the innings. In reply, Sri Lanka put up wickets to put Sri Lanka in a spot of Outdoor, Clay): series at the Sher-e-Bangla another disappointing batting perfor- bother. Roland Garros, Qualification ATP at National Stadium in Mirpur, mance as they finished on 141 for nine Off-spinner Miraz trapped Kusal Stade Roland Garros Dhaka yesterday. in 40 overs after their target was Mendis in front after the right-hander (Grand Slam Qualification, Bangladesh also recorded their revised to 245 due to rain interrup- scored 15 off 22 deliveries. It was a Outdoor, Clay): first-ever ODI series victory over tions. typical off-break from Miraz that went Roland Garros, Qualification WTA at Sri Lanka with one match to spare. on to hit Mendis on his pads. Stade Roland Garros The 34-year-old wicket-keeper bats- The batsman challenged the CyCLiNG Dushmantha Chameera celebrates a dismissal, man brought up his eighth ODI century umpire's decision but the Pix courtesy SLC Giro d'Italia in Italy (18th stage) as Bangladesh went to a position of review showed it would FootBaLL strength from a vulnerable state. have gone to hit the leg S CORE CARD (Europa League final): The ever-so-reliable batsman, who stump. BANGLADESH SRI LANKA Villarreal vs Manchester scored 84 off 87 deliveries in the first Just a few overs before, in the 19th T. Iqbal D. Gunathilaka United over of the game, premier all-rounder lbw b Chameera ...... 13 c Shakib b Mustafizur..... 24 GoLF L. Das K. Perera Shakib picked up the wicket of c Hasaranga b Sandakan.. 25 c Tamim b S. Islam ...... 14 (LPGA Tour, Match Play): mushfiqur Rahim in action Pathum Nissanka to end yet S. Al Hasan P. Nissanka Bank of Hope LPGA at another growing Sri Lankan lbw b Chameera ...... 00 c Tamim b Shakib ...... 20 Shadow Creek Golf Course, Las Vegas partnership. M. Rahim K. Mendis c Bandara b Chameera .. 125 lbw b M. Miraz ...... 15 It was a shorter length deliv- M. Hossain D. de Silva ery from Shakib and Nissanka c Perera b Sandakan ..... 10 lbw b Shakib...... 10 tried to pull but could not time M. Riyad A.Bandara it due to the extra pace on the c Perera b Sandakan ..... 41 c M. Riyad b Mustafizur ... 15 Grandhomme to A.Hossain D. Shanaka delivery. c Nissanka b Udana ...... 10 c M. Riyad b M. Miraz..... 11 The right-hander ended up M. Hasan W. Hasaranga join Hants for scooping it in the air and Tamim b Hasaranga...... 00 b M. Miraz...... 06 Iqbal at mid-wicket took the catch M. Saifuddin I.Udana run out ...... 11 not out ...... 18 T20 Blast following a fumble. S. Islam L. Sandakan The pressure kept on mounting c Perera b Udana ...... 00 c Tamim b Mustafizur ..... 04 New Zealand all-rounder on Sri Lanka as off-spinner Miraz M. Rahman D. Chameera Colin de Grandhomme is to picked up the wicket of Dasun not out ...... 00 not out ...... 04 join Hampshire as an over- Extras: (b1, lb4, nb3, w3) . 11 Extras...... 00 Shanaka as Sri Lanka collapsed to TOTAL: (all out, 48.1 overs) 246 Total (nine wickets, 40 overs) 141 seas player for the T20 104 for six in 30 overs. Fall: 1-15, 2-15, 3-49, 4-74, Fall: 1-24, 2-53, 3-71, 4-77, Blast. Miraz claimed his second wicket 5-161, 6-178, 7-184, 8-232, 5-89, 6-104, 7-114, 8-116, De Grandhomme, 34, is of the game when Shanaka went 9-246 9-122 expected to join up with the BOWLING: I. Udana 9-0-49-2, Bowling: M. Miraz 10-0-28-3, S. for a sweep but a leading-edge saw D. Chameera 9.1-2-44-3, W. Islam 6-0-30-1, T. Ahmed 8-0- county after New Zealand's the ball end up at the hands of Mah- Hasaranga 10-1-33-1, D. 27-0, M. Rahman 6-1-16-3, S. scheduled World Test mahmudullah Riyad plays a shot mudullah Riyad at mid-wicket. Shanaka 7-0-38-0, L. Sandakan Al Hasan 9-0-38-2, M. Hossain Championship final against (agencies) 10-0-54-3, D. de Silva 3-0-23-0 1-0-2-0 India in late June. He has previously played for Birmingham Bears in the competition in 2017 and 2018, helping them to final Scotland edge out Ireland in first T20 Financial assistance for in 2018. De Grandhomme has Scotland secured an 11-run victo- been out of international ry over Ireland on Monday, in the volleyball coaches action for the past year with first of four Women’s T20 games an ankle problem. between the sides in Belfast this Dhammika RatnaweeRa "I've always enjoyed play- week. ing county cricket and I'm The Sri Lanka Volleyball In a low-scoring encounter Katie Federation (SLVF) is plan- really looking forward to McGill top-scored for the tourists joining up with Hamp- ning to grant a monthly with 20 from 22 balls as they made payment for the coaches shire," said De Grand- 87 for nine. homme. who are involved in the Leah Paul hit an unbeaten 18 but National Volleyball Pool. "There's a very talented the Irish struggled and they were group of players and I'm According to a senior bowled out for 76 with three balls official of the SLVF, this will hopeful I can contribute left with McGill taking three wick- with some good perfor- be the first time that this ets. type of a payment is grant- mances." Scotland, who won the toss, De Grandhomme could ed for volleyball coaches on showed this would be a tough day for a permanent basis. line-up alongside Hamp- batters although Sarah Bryce (14), shire's other overseas sign- The local coaches, assis- Kathyrn Bryce (12) and McGill pro- tant coaches and the train- ing for the Blast, Australia the Super League tournament will be conducted after vided a solid start. ers of the National Pool are limited-overs specialist the COViD-19 pandemic Celeste Raack (3/15) was the best eligible to receive this pay- D'Arcy Short. of the Irish bowlers while Captain Scotland women celebrate a dismissal ment. planning to conduct the nament. Meanwhile, the He could be available for Laura Delany took two for 13. Hampshire's last eight The SLVF is also hoping Super League Men’s Volley- National Volleyball Pool Shauna Kavanagh (12) was the by Kathryn Bryce (2/8) and Kather- McGill 20, C. Raack 3/15, L. Delany to grant this payment for ball Tournament after the practices, which were group matches with the only top-order batter to reach double World Test Championship ine Fraser (2/15) as Scotland went 2/13) the coaches of the Men’s COVID-19 pandemic. scheduled to resume on figures as Ireland slumped to 48 for one up with three to play. Ireland: 76 in 19.5 overs (K. and Women’s beach volley- Two foreign players will June 1 has been postponed final at Ageas Bowl finish- seven after 15.3 overs. ing on June 22. (BBC) Chief scores McGill 3/18, K. Bryce 2/8). ball team as well. be allowed to represent once again and the new McGill (3/18) was ably supported Scotland: 87/9 in 20 overs (K. (BBC) In addition, the SLVF is each team during this tour- dates will be notified later. Rain disrupts NZ's Hadlee can't split NZ and india in WtC Final Cricket great Richard Hadlee better prepared and who adapts high-class batsmen so it will be an believes it is still too soon to declare better to the English conditions the interesting game to watch. It is too a favourite in next month's ICC quickest," he said. difficult to call a winner at this World Test Championship (WTC) "The weather may also play a stage." prep plans in the UK Final but is looking forward to a part and if it is cold that will favour "The Test Championship is a one- clash between the two of the best New Zealand. The Duke Ball will off game. Yes, it is a final but I don’t batting and bowling units in the suit the fast bowlers especially the think either team will be too fazed The 10th wettest May in the UK tions here," Head Coach Gary Stead game. genuine swing bowlers and the about it. It is a neutral ground with since the Met Department began main- said yesterday. "I guess when you come India and the Black Caps finished Kiwis are well served in that depart- no home team advantage," he said. taining records in 1862 has put a span- to an English summer you still expect first and second respectively on the ment with Southee, Boult and "It is something to look forward ner in New Zealand's preparation ahead to get outside occasionally. We've been ICC WTC standings and will face Jamieson.” to. Both teams deserve to be con- of the start of next week's two-Test lucky with the build up we had in New each other at the Hampshire Bowl “If the ball seams around off the testing the final because of their series against England. Zealand. We trained on grass wickets from June 18 to 22 in the decider. pitch, batsmen in both teams will consistent playing performances "It's been a little bit frustrating, and we had two camps as well. So it's "It all comes down as to who is be challenged.” "Both teams have over a set period of time." (iCC) Richard hadlee because you come over and guys just not like we're miles behind or anything want to get a feel for the different condi- like that.” (agencies) Pep Guardiola voted LMA Manager of the year

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has been "My players have been fantastic - their dedica- voted the League Managers Association's tion and professionalism never wavered, even in (LMA’s) Manager of the year. a season that has been the most challenging we The Spaniard led City to their third Premier have ever faced.” League title in four years. The club also won "And my staff are also deserving of the high- this season's Carabao Cup and face Chelsea in est praise. I am so lucky to have a team of peo- the Champions League final on Saturday. The ple who give everything they have every single five other managers in contention were Leeds' day to make sure Manchester City are the best Marcelo Bielsa, Norwich City's Daniel Farke, we can be.” Chelsea Women's Emma Hayes, David Moyes of "This award is dedicated to and shared with West Ham and Leicester's Brendan Rodgers. them." Farke, Hull City's Grant McCann, Chel- "I am delighted to win the LMA Manager of tenham Town boss Michael Duff and Leicester the year award for the second time," said Guar- Women's Jonathan Morgan were also voted as diola, who previously won it in 2017-18. Manager of the year in their respective leagues. "It is, for me, such a special trophy to win Steven Gerrard was presented with the LMA because it is voted for by my fellow managers.” special achievement award after his Rangers “An award like this is only possible though if side went undefeated throughout the Scottish a manager is surrounded by top professionals.” Premiership season. (BBC) Pep Guardiola new Zealand team at training wednesday, may 26, 2021 adVeRTIsemenTs page 15 DN PUBLIC NOTICE CHANGE OF NAME ON CONVERSION TO A LIMITED COMPANY In terms of Section 11(5) of the Companies Act, No. 07 of 2007, we hereby SLITA give notice of the change of status of the undernoted Company incorporated under the Companies Act No. 17 of 1982 and re-registered under the SRI LANKA INSTITUTE OF TEXTILE & APPAREL Companies Act No. 07 of 2007. STATE MINISTRY OF BATIK, HANDLOOM TEXTILES AND LOCAL APPAREL PRODUCTION Former Name : E M L CONSULTANTS (PRIVATE) LIMITED Company No. : PV 1927 Registered Offi ce : No. 6/10, Rajamaha Vihara Road, Pita Kotte Request for Proposals (RFP) New Name of the Company : E M L CONSULTANTS LIMITED Selection of a Consultant By order of the Board Business Intelligence (Private) Limited Consortium Consultancy Services for Design and Construction Supervision of Secretaries a) Proposed Improvement, Modification and upgrading of Class Rooms, b) Renovation of existing buildings, c) Boundary Wall and Landscape design d) Renovation of Design Studio for Sri Lanka Institute of Textile & Apparel 1. The Department Procurement Committee (DPC) on behalf of the Sri Lanka Institute of Textile & Apparel invites proposals to provide the above consulting services. More details on the services are provided in the Terms of Reference of Request for Proposals (RFP). 2. A Consultancy Organization will be selected under Quality Based Selection( QBS) method and procedures described in RFP, in accordance with the policies described in the latest version of the following Guidelines: Selection and Employment of Consultants, published by National Procurement Agency; 2007 This RFP includes the following documents: Section 1- Letter of Invitation Section 2 - Instructions to Consultants (including Data sheet) Section 3 - Technical Proposal- Standard Forms Section 4 - Financial Proposal- Standard Forms Section 5 - Terms of Reference Section 6 - Standard Form of Contract 3. Consultants may obtain further Information from the Director (Operation)/Deputy Director of Sri Lanka Institute of Textile & Apparel at the address given below from 9.00 a.m. to 3.30 p.m. on week days from 26th May to 09th June 2021. 4. Evaluation of proposals will be conducted under the National Competitive Bidding procedure published by the National Procurement Agency. 5. A complete set of RFP in English language can be obtained by consultants on our web site: www.slita.lk (Hard copies will not be issued) 6. Proposals must be inserted in the tender box placed at the address below or sent by registered post on or before 9th June 2021 at 2.00 p.m. Late proposals will be rejected. Proposals will be opened in the presence of the consultants or consultants’ representatives who choose to attend in person at the address below at 2.00 p.m. on 9th June 2021. Director General Sri Lanka Institute of Textile and Apparel Kandawela Estate No. 2, General Sir John Kotalawela Road, Ratmalana Tel.: 0112632406 Fax: 0112636337 Web Site: www.slita.lk

GOVERNMENT OF THE DEMOCRATIC SOCIALIST REPUBLIC OF SRI LANKA GOVERNMENT OF SRI LANKA MINISTRY OF HIGHWAYS ROAD DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY MINISTRY OF WATER SUPPLY ASIAN DEVELOPMENT BANK FUNDED WATER SUPPLY & SANITATION IMPROVEMENT INTEGRATED ROAD INVESTMENT PROGRAM INVITATION FOR BIDS PROJECT Credit No.: Cr. 5685-lk NATIONAL COMPETITIVE BIDDING

Date 25 May 2021 BID NOTICE

Title Integrated Road Investment Program 1. The Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka has received a credit from the International Development Agency of World Bank towards the Contract Nos. z RDA/ADB/iROAD(WP)/NCB/CP-RR(KL3-R1): cost of Water Supply and Sanitation Improvement Project and it is intended that part of the proceeds of this credit to payments under the and Title Rehabilitation / Improvements of 43.00 km of Rural contracts given below. Roads in the Kalutara District including Performace 2. The Chairman, Procurement Committee now invites sealed bids from eligible and qualified bidders for projects described below. Based Maintenance for three years Bid Security Place of Issuing of Closing z RDA/ADB/iROAD(WP)/NCB/CP-RR(KL3-R2): Non Refundable Eligibility Name of Contract & Contract No. Requirements Documents & Date and Rehabilitation / Improvements of 24.95 Km of Rural Fee (Rs) Requirements (Rs) Contact Person Time Road in the Kalutara District including Performance Based Maintenance for three years Project Procurement Committee (Major) z RDA/ADB/iROAD(WP)/NCB/CP-RR(KL3-R3): Supply Tenders Rehabilitation / Improvements of 26.05 Km of Rural Works Tenders Roads in the Kalutara District including Performance Reference to the advertisement dated 05th May 2021– Please note that the closing date of following bid has been extended as follows; Based Maintenance for three years Rehabilitation of Mahalanda Rural Water Supply Scheme in Badulla District. Bid Closing – 16th June 2021, 10.00 hours Reference to the Invitation for Bids published on 25 April 2021 in the Sunday Observer Contract No: (Bid Securities should be valid up to 10th November for the above mentioned contract packages. MWS/WaSSIP/Badulla/Haldumulla/RE/Mahalanda/2019/02 2021and Bid Validity shall be up to13th October 2021) The deadline for submission of bids has been extended up to 11 June 2021, 11.00 hrs. Supply and Installation of Pumps of Existing Rural WSS in Welioya DS Division in (Sri Lankan time). Bid Closing –16th June 2021, 10.00 hours Mullaithivu District (Bid Securities should be valid up to 29th September The bidding documents will be issued during normal working days (Monday to Friday) Contract No: 2021 and Bid Validity shall be up to 01st September 2021) from 9.00 hrs to 15.00 hrs. at the address below until 10th June 2021. MWS/WaSSIP/Mullaitivu/NCB/Supply & Installation of Pumps - Welioya /2020/19 Project Director Integrated Road Investment Program 3. Bidding documents will be issued on submission of a written application on the applicant’s letterhead to the office of Project Director. Road Development Authority 4. Bidding documents can be collected between 09.30 hours and 15.30 hours on normal working days up to the closing date. No.16, Subhuthipura Road Battaramulla 5. Interested bidders may obtain further information from Water Supply & Sanitation Improvement Project and inspect the bidding documents Sri Lanka. free of charge at the place of issuing documents during normal working hours. Chairman 6. Bids shall be either hand delivered or dispatched by registered post or courier to the address given above. Ministry Procurement Committee, Ministry of Highways, 7. All Bids will be opened at the same address soon after closing in the presence of the bidders’ representatives who choose to attend. Late "Maganeguma Mahamedura" bids will be returned unopened. No.216, Denzil Kobbekaduwa Mawatha, Koswatta, Battaramulla, Sri Lanka. Project Director, Water Supply & Sanitation Improvement Project cz ~¥rx¨v r‹…‹tq ƒn™~‹ R¥vlªK ~qƒ£ [£~ˆlª RxÃú»vp‰ »l£y 1939 R¹Yx r¥x 24 r§y£v Xt »{p§»{p‰ òx£l‰vYõ r±c£ cz »x¤cp£Y²v{z [¥fû »{p§»{p‰ 1914 Rvlp‰p

MINISTRY OF WATER SUPPLY NATIONAL WATER SUPPLY & DRAINAGE BOARD EXTENSION OF BID NOTICE

Note : Due to Covid-19 Pandemic and Travel restrictions in the Country, the following bids have not been closed and opened as scheduled. Therefore bids are accepted until the extended dates mentioned below.

No. REFERENCE TO THE ADVERTISEMENT DATED 28/04/2020 PLACE OF ISSUING OF DOCUMENTS EXTENDED DATE 01 Construction of Water Supply Facilities to Kanugahawewa and Halmillawetiya Areas – Tenders & Contracts Section, NWS&DB, 08/06/20210 Kanugahawewa WSS Galle Road, Ratmalana. 10.00 hours Contract No.: NWSDB/NC/CP/A1-22/GOSL/2021/01 Tele: 011-2605328 Fax: 011-2635885 REFERENCE TO THE ADVERTISEMENT DATED 05/05/2021

02 Supply and Delivery of Stainless Steel Sheets for Package Water Treatment Plants Tenders & Contracts Section, NWS&DB, 09/06/2021 Contract No.: NWSDB/P&D/S/SS/GOSL/2021/01 Galle Road, Ratmalana. 10.00 hours Tele: 011-2605328 Fax: 011-2635885 03 Augmentation of Gallella Water Treatment Plant Tenders & Contracts Section, NWS&DB, 09/06/2021 Contract No.: NWSDB/NC/CP/A2-22/GOSL/2021/01 Galle Road, Ratmalana. 10.00 hours Tele: 011-2605328 Fax: 011-2635885

Widest reach for your Chairman, National Water Supply and Drainage Board employment advertisement Email : [email protected] Hotline: 1949 For more information 0777270012 / 0112429314