Letters to the Editor
View(s):Vesak festival fostering camaraderie and cultural exchange in the North
The inaugural Vesak festival of the Jaffna National College of Education was held on May 21, marking a historic occasion as 31 Sinhala student teachers commenced their English medium courses. The festivities began with Vesak lanterns and art competitions, setting a vibrant tone for the celebrations. The day concluded with a traditional dansala, where student teachers and lecturers came together to share milk rice, fostering camaraderie and cultural exchange.
The next day saw a grand Vesak concert, with the high priest of Nagadeepa, Jaffna also present. Guests were warmly welcomed with betel leaves and traditional worship rituals, embodying the spirit of the occasion. The Vesak concert showcased an array of performances by students, transcending boundaries of religion and ethnicity, symbolizing unity and harmony.
A notable highlight of the concert was the participation of Sinhala students, who presented programmes and narrated the history of Lord Buddha in Tamil, demonstrating a beautiful fusion of cultures and languages.
This marks a significant milestone in the annals of Jaffna National College of Education, bringing out its commitment to fostering peace and harmony.
Thambipillai Mohan Jaffna
Teach the Dhamma for a better society
If we Sri Lankans genuinely wish to protect, conserve and foster the Dhamma instead of “Buddhism”, then it is our duty to impart the pure Dhamma to our younger generations. The wisdom of the Buddha on chauvinism and racism remains profoundly relevant today. He emphasised that an individual’s social position or birth does not determine their intrinsic goodness or badness. Rather, one’s character should be assessed solely based on their actions, free from considerations of skin colour, caste, creed or race. Trustworthiness cannot be discerned from outward appearances; judging others by their exterior diminishes our humanity.
It is our solemn obligation to impart the untainted Dhamma to the younger generations, delivered by learned Buddhist prelates who have attained profound philosophical insights. This will ultimately lead to religious freedom for all communities, fostering greater inter-racial and interreligious tolerance and harmony.
Introducing the subject of Comparative Religion in all schools is imperative, as it enables students to understand the beliefs and practices of diverse faiths. A deeper comprehension of the fundamental philosophies of different religions from a young age ensures that no race or religion is deemed superior to another. This knowledge cultivates a sense of mutual respect and acceptance.
By instilling these principles in our youth, we can pave the way for a more compassionate and harmonious society, where individuals appreciate and respect the diversity of religious beliefs and practices.
K.K.S. Perera Via email
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