As 2025 draws to a close, we welcome the New Year by mindfully reflecting on moments of deep significance for the Buddhist world and for Sri Lanka.
In 2025, Sanganayakas Welcomed the Kopan Geshes from Nepal
In the historic city of Kandy, Tibetan Geshes from Kopan Monastery in Nepal, including Venerable Thamang Namgyal Rinpoche, were formally received by the Most Venerable Warakagoda Sri Gnanarathana Maha Nayaka Thero, Chief Prelate of the Asgiriya Chapter of the Siam Maha Nikaya.
On this occasion, the Maha Nayaka Thero recalled his meeting with His Holiness the Dalai Lama in Bodh Gaya, and expressed his happiness that the Dalai Lama’s disciples had come to Sri Lanka.
The spirit of welcome continued in Anuradhapura, where the Chief Sanganayaka, Pallegama Hematathana Thero, warmly received the Kopan monks. This rare meeting reflected a shared respect and recognition between monastics of long-standing Buddhist traditions.
Held in Sri Lanka’s most sacred cities — Kandy, home of the Sacred Tooth Relic, and Anuradhapura, guardian of the Sri Maha Bodhi — these encounters stand as a quiet yet enduring moment added to the shared history of Buddhism.
As we step into the New Year, may this spirit of harmony, respect, and continuity guide the path ahead.
