Lumbini, September 27

The Lumbini Development Trust extended a warm welcome to former Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa during his visit to Lumbini. Dr. Lharkyal Lama (Khenpo Chime), Vice-Chairman of the Trust, greeted Rajapaksa with a traditional khada (ceremonial scarf). While welcoming him, Dr. Lama emphasized the deep historical ties between Nepal and Sri Lanka, which have been further strengthened by the sacred birthplace of Lord Buddha, Lumbini.

Dr. Lama highlighted Lumbini’s significance, noting that in addition to Sakyamuni Buddha, two other Buddhas, Krakucchanda and Kanakamuni, were also born in the region, making it a highly important site. He reiterated Nepal’s readiness to collaborate with Sri Lanka in the development of Lumbini, citing the longstanding relationship between the two countries. Dr. Lama also requested that Sri Lanka consider establishing regular flights to Gautam Buddha International Airport, which serves Lumbini.

Rajapaksa was accompanied by Sri Lanka's Ambassador to Nepal, Sudarshana Pathirana. Treasurer Dhundiraj Bhattarai, Member Secretary Sanuraja Shakya, Project Chief Smita Bhatt, and Senior Director Gyanin Rai, along with other staff members, were present to welcome the former president.

 

During the event, Member Secretary Shakya expressed his excitement over Rajapaksa's visit, mentioning that Sri Lanka has been a partner in the early stages of developing monasteries in Lumbini. He thanked Sri Lanka for its ongoing collaboration and looked forward to continued partnership. Senior Director Gyanin Rai took the opportunity to request assistance in the reconstruction of the Sri Lankan Temple in Lumbini.

Following the welcoming ceremony, former President Rajapaksa visited the Mayadevi Temple. Dr. Hari D. Rai, Head of Information and Public Relations at the Trust, noted that Sri Lankans hold Lumbini in high regard, and Rajapaksa’s visit to the Mayadevi Temple was carried out with great reverence. Accompanied by his family, Rajapaksa lit a ceremonial lamp, praying for peace.

Arriving in Lumbini on Friday afternoon, the former president braved the heavy rain to offer his respects at the sacred site. Despite the ongoing downpour making it difficult to walk, Rajapaksa described setting foot in Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha, as one of the greatest achievements of his life. He toured the Mayadevi Temple, the Birth Marker Stone, the Mayadevi Statue, the Puskarini Pond, and the Asoka Pillar, learning about their significance.

Dr. Rai provided a briefing on the importance of Lumbini and the Mayadevi Temple, while Senior Archaeological Officer Himal Kumar Upreti explained the archaeological significance of the site and its structures.

The delegation of the former president also visited the Kapilavastu area on Saturday, where they toured key historical sites including Kudan, Tilaurakot, and Niglihawa. During the visit, they paid homage to these important Buddhist landmarks, recognizing their deep historical and spiritual significance.