Replica of Ashoka Pillar Unveiled in Waskaduwa, Sri Lanka
A replica of the Ashoka pillar was unveiled on July 21, 2025, at the Waskaduwa Sri Subhuthi Viharaya, a prominent Buddhist temple located in the Kalutara district of Sri Lanka. The event was attended by several dignitaries, including the Chief Incumbent of the temple and the Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka. This significant occasion not only honors Emperor Ashoka’s contributions to Buddhism in Sri Lanka but also strengthens the cultural ties between India and Sri Lanka.
Significant Ceremony at Waskaduwa Sri Subhuthi Viharaya
The unveiling ceremony of the Ashoka pillar replica was marked by the presence of esteemed guests, including the Most Venerable Waskaduwe Mahindawansa Mahanayaka Thero, who serves as the Chief Incumbent of the temple. The Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Shri Santosh Jha, was the chief guest at the event. Other notable attendees included Mr. Aruna Prasad Chandrasekera, Chairman of Waskaduwa Pradeshiya Sabha, and Dr. Damenda Porage, Deputy Secretary General of the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC). The gathering reflected the importance of the occasion, as it celebrated the historical and spiritual connections between the two nations.
The Ashoka pillar, a symbol of peace and Buddhism, was constructed to honor the legacy of Emperor Ashoka, who played a pivotal role in spreading Buddhism to Sri Lanka. The foundation stone for the replica was laid on January 28, 2024, by the Indian High Commissioner and Venerable Shartse Khensur Jangchup Choeden Rinpoche, Secretary General of the IBC. The project took over a year to complete, culminating in the recent unveiling.
Support from Tibetan Buddhism Leaders
The construction of the Ashoka pillar replica was fully sponsored by H.E. Kyabje Ling Rinpoche, a prominent leader in Tibetan Buddhism. The current 7th incarnation of Ling Rinpoche, born in 1985, is known for his extensive teachings and guidance at Drepung Loseling Monastic University in Karnataka, India. His involvement in this project underscores the collaborative efforts among various Buddhist traditions to promote peace and spirituality.
The 6th Kyabje Yongzin Ling Rinpoche, who served as a senior tutor to the 14th Dalai Lama, is remembered for his significant contributions to Tibetan Buddhism. The lineage of these spiritual leaders highlights the deep-rooted connections within the Buddhist community, further enriching the significance of the Ashoka pillar replica in Sri Lanka.
Emperor Ashoka’s Legacy and Cultural Ties
During the ceremony, Most Venerable Waskaduwe Mahindawansa Mahanayaka Thero emphasized the historical importance of Emperor Ashoka in establishing Buddhism in Sri Lanka. He noted that Ashoka’s contributions are often overlooked, despite their monumental impact on the spiritual landscape of the country. The Mahanayaka Thero expressed gratitude for Ashoka’s efforts, which included sending his children, Arhat Mahinda Thero and Arhat Sangamitta Therani, to Sri Lanka to spread Buddhism.
The Indian High Commissioner, Shri Santosh Jha, also addressed the gathering, highlighting the ongoing efforts to strengthen cultural and spiritual ties between India and Sri Lanka. He mentioned a special grant of USD 15 million announced by the Government of India in 2020 to promote Buddhist connections, which includes projects like providing solar electrification to Buddhist temples across Sri Lanka. The High Commissioner also noted the recent recognition of Pali as a classical language, a decision welcomed by Buddhist scholars in Sri Lanka.
Waskaduwa Sri Subhuthi Viharaya’s Role
Dr. Damenda Porage, Deputy Secretary General of the IBC, explained the significance of Waskaduwa Sri Subhuthi Viharaya in housing the authentic relics of the Buddha. He emphasized that the temple’s selection for the Ashoka pillar project was fitting, given its historical and spiritual importance. The temple serves as a vital link between India and Sri Lanka, housing sacred relics gifted to Sri Lanka, which further cements the bond between the two nations.
The unveiling of the Ashoka pillar replica not only commemorates Emperor Ashoka’s legacy but also serves as a testament to the enduring relationship between India and Sri Lanka, rooted in shared cultural and spiritual heritage.
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