The Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka to UNESCAP in Bangkok, Wijayanthi Edirisinghe, was invited to deliver a lecture on “Guardians of the Dhamma: The Role of Buddhism in Sri Lanka and Anagarika Dharmapala’s Pioneering Efforts to Preserve Buddhagaya” at the Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University, one of Thailand’s foremost centres of Buddhist higher education on 17 March 2026.

Upon arrival, the Ambassador was warmly received by Most Venerable Asst. Prof. Dr. Phra Sitthivajarabundit, Vice Rector of Foreign Affairs, together with Ven. Dr. Seng Hurng Narindo, Director of Dhammaduta College, and Ven. Dr. Walmoruwe Piyarathana Thero, Senior Lecturer of Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University.

In welcoming the Ambassador, the Vice Rector highlighted the longstanding religious and cultural ties between Sri Lanka and Thailand, underscoring their shared responsibility in safeguarding the Buddha Sasana. He also reflected on the tireless dedication of Anagarika Dharmapala in his efforts to restore and protect the sacred Mahabodhi Temple, noting that his life and service offer enduring lessons for the monastic community in commitment, discipline, and devotion to the Dhamma. The lecture was attended by nearly 150 members of the Sangha, faculty, and students.

In her presentation, the Ambassador highlighted the longstanding spiritual and cultural relations between Sri Lanka and Thailand, founded upon their shared commitment to the Theravāda Buddhist tradition. She recalled Sri Lanka’s historic role in safeguarding Buddhism since its introduction in the 3rd century BCE by Mahinda Thero, and emphasized the enduring responsibility borne by Buddhist nations in preserving the Buddha Sasana.

The Ambassador further elaborated on the historic bonds between Sri Lanka and Thailand, particularly the mission of 1753 during the reign of Kirti Sri Rajasinha, when a delegation of monks from Siam, led by Upali Thero, restored the Upasampadā ordination lineage in Sri Lanka. This event, she noted, remains a defining example of Buddhist solidarity and continues to symbolize the deep-rooted religious ties between the two countries.

Highlighting the 19th century Buddhist revival, the Ambassador paid tribute to Anagarika Dharmapala, whose visionary leadership contributed significantly to the resurgence of Buddhism in Sri Lanka and beyond. She outlined his efforts to restore Buddhagaya, the site of Lord Buddha’s Enlightenment, and his establishment of the Mahabodhi Society in 1891 to advance Buddhist education and international cooperation.

The lecture further underscored the global engagement of Anagarika Dharmapala, particularly his participation in the World’s Parliament of Religions, through which Buddhism was presented to a wider international audience as a philosophy grounded in compassion, rationality, and ethical living. Reflecting on its contemporary relevance, the Ambassador emphasized that Dharmapala’s legacy continues to inspire collective efforts in preserving Buddhist heritage, promoting education, and fostering international collaboration, while commending the important role played by Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University in advancing Buddhist scholarship and strengthening regional and global engagement.

Following the lecture, the Ambassador was invited to plant a sapling of the Golden Shower Tree, the official tree associated with His Majesty King Rama X of Thailand, to commemorate her visit to the University. Minister Counsellor/Head of Chancery, Ms. Thilini Ihalage also attended for the event.

Embassy and Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka

18 March 2026