Khettarama Social Service Foundation Donates Land for Buddha Education Temple in Sri Lanka

Date: February 28, 2024 - Sri Lanka

In a remarkable gesture of friendship and cultural preservation, the Honourable Director and Founder of Khettarama Social Service Foundation, Rev. Kowane Palitha Thero, welcomed the esteemed Chairperson of Hswagata Buddha Tooth Relics Preservation Museum, Bhikkhu Indasoma, to the auspicious grounds of the Foundation's land on February 28th, 2024.

The occasion marked a significant milestone in fostering camaraderie and mutual respect between Sri Lanka and Myanmar as both revered figures deliberated on the establishment of a Buddha Education Temple. Reverend Kowane Palitha Thero, embodying the spirit of benevolence, graciously pledged to donate a portion of the Foundation's land to Bhikkhu Indasoma for the noble cause of constructing the temple.

The Khettarama Social Service Foundation's commitment to philanthropy and community development shines brightly through this act of generosity. By offering land for the construction of the Buddha Education Temple, the Foundation demonstrates its unwavering dedication to promoting spiritual enlightenment and educational advancement.

Bhikkhu Indasoma expressed profound gratitude for the heartfelt gesture extended by Rev. Kowane Palitha Thero and the Khettarama Social Service Foundation. He emphasized the importance of fostering cultural exchange and promoting Buddhist education as a means to strengthen the bonds of friendship between Sri Lanka and Myanmar.

The envisioned Buddha Education Temple stands as a beacon of enlightenment and knowledge, serving as a platform for the dissemination of Buddhist teachings and principles. Through collaborative efforts, the temple aims to cultivate a deeper understanding of Buddhism while fostering harmony and unity within the community.

The partnership between the Khettarama Social Service Foundation and the Hswagata Buddha Tooth Relics Preservation Museum exemplifies the enduring bonds of friendship and cultural heritage shared between Sri Lanka and Myanmar. Together, they embark on a noble journey to enrich lives, inspire minds, and nurture the spirit of compassion and goodwill.

As construction commences on the Buddha Education Temple, anticipation and excitement resonate throughout Sri Lanka, heralding a new era of enlightenment and enlightenment. The legacy of this historic collaboration will endure for generations to come, embodying the timeless values of generosity, unity, and harmony.

Sri Lankan Monk Venerable Kowane Palitha Thero Named Patron of Hswagata Buddha Tooth Relics Preservation Museum

In a significant development in the preservation and promotion of Buddhist heritage, Venerable Kowane Palitha Thero from Sri Lanka has been appointed as the Patron of the Hswagata Buddha Tooth Relics Preservation Museum. The appointment was made by Bhikkhu Indasoma, the esteemed Founder of Hswagata, on February 27, 2023.

Venerable Kowane Palitha Thero's appointment marks a pivotal moment for the museum, renowned for its dedication to safeguarding and showcasing relics associated with the Buddha's life and teachings. With a rich background in Buddhist studies and a profound commitment to preserving the cultural and spiritual legacy of Buddhism, Venerable Palitha Thero brings invaluable insight and guidance to the institution.

The Hswagata Buddha Tooth Relics Preservation Museum, situated at the heart of its mission, has continuously endeavored to promote understanding and appreciation of Buddhist relics and artifacts. Under the patronage of Venerable Palitha Thero, the museum is poised to further its endeavors in research, conservation, and educational outreach.

Bhikkhu Indasoma, recognizing the depth of Venerable Palitha Thero's knowledge and his unwavering dedication to the Buddhist faith, expressed his utmost confidence in the new Patron's ability to steer the museum towards greater heights of excellence and relevance in the global arena of Buddhist heritage preservation.

Venerable Kowane Palitha Thero's appointment underscores the enduring ties between Sri Lanka and the global Buddhist community, highlighting the island nation's esteemed role in upholding and disseminating the teachings of the Buddha across geographical and cultural boundaries.

As the Patron of the Hswagata Buddha Tooth Relics Preservation Museum, Venerable Kowane Palitha Thero assumes a position of leadership and responsibility in safeguarding one of Buddhism's most cherished legacies. His appointment symbolizes a commitment to the perpetuation of Buddhist values and traditions for generations to come.

The museum looks forward to benefiting from Venerable Palitha Thero's wisdom and guidance as it continues its noble mission of preserving and promoting the profound heritage encapsulated within the sacred relics of the Buddha.

Hswagata to Provide Buddhist Education Support for Congo Buddhist Vihara

In a significant development aimed at fostering Buddhist education, the Hswagata group has pledged support for the Congo Buddhist Vihara. The collaboration, initiated by Bhikkhu Indasoma, the esteemed Founder of the Hswagata Buddha Tooth Relics Preservation Museum in Myanmar, marks a promising endeavor towards advancing educational initiatives within the Buddhist community.

On the 26th of February 2024, Bhikkhu Indasoma engaged in a fruitful discussion with the abbot of the Congo Buddhist Vihara. The primary focus of their deliberation revolved around the technical support that Hswagata intends to provide for the educational endeavors of the Vihara.

The impending Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Hswagata and the Congo Buddhist Vihara signals a concrete commitment to bolstering Buddhist education. Through this partnership, both parties aim to enhance the quality and accessibility of educational resources within the Vihara, thereby empowering individuals to deepen their understanding of Buddhist principles and practices.

The collaboration holds immense promise in leveraging Hswagata's expertise and resources to enrich the educational landscape of the Congo Buddhist Vihara. By harnessing innovative teaching methodologies and leveraging technological advancements, the initiative seeks to cater to the evolving needs of contemporary learners while staying true to the timeless wisdom of Buddhist teachings.

The collaboration underscores a shared commitment to preserving and disseminating Buddhist heritage and knowledge. By facilitating access to comprehensive educational materials and fostering a culture of lifelong learning, the partnership between Hswagata and the Congo Buddhist Vihara aspires to cultivate a vibrant community of informed practitioners and scholars.

As preparations for the MOU progress, anticipation grows for the transformative impact that this collaboration will have on Buddhist education at the Congo Buddhist Vihara. Through collective efforts and mutual dedication, the partners aim to ignite a renaissance of learning and enlightenment, echoing the timeless ethos of Buddhist wisdom across generations.

The forthcoming collaboration between Hswagata and the Congo Buddhist Vihara exemplifies a shared vision for the advancement of Buddhist education. Rooted in reverence for tradition yet embracing innovation, the partnership heralds a new chapter in the journey towards enlightenment and spiritual growth within the global Buddhist community.

A POTENTIAL FUTURE COOPERATION

 

 

1. Collaborative Research: Establish collaborative research partnerships with academic institutions, Buddhist scholars, and experts in relevant fields. This cooperation can involve conducting research on the historical and cultural significance of the Buddha tooth Relics, as well as their impact on Buddhism and society. Jointly publish research findings and share knowledge to further academic understanding.

2. Education and Training Programs: Develop joint education and training programs with educational institutions and Buddhist organizations. This cooperation can involve offering workshops, courses, and seminars on various aspects of Buddhism, including meditation, mindfulness, ethics, and philosophy. Pool resources and expertise to enhance the quality and accessibility of Buddhist education for individuals and communities.

3. Cultural Exchange: Facilitate cultural exchange programs with Buddhist communities and organizations in different countries. This cooperation can involve organizing cultural events, exhibitions, and study tours to promote mutual learning, understanding, and appreciation of diverse Buddhist traditions and practices.

4. Interfaith Dialogues: Organize interfaith dialogue sessions with representatives from different religious and spiritual traditions. This cooperation can foster mutual respect, understanding, and harmony among various faith communities, promoting interfaith dialogue as a means to address common societal challenges and build bridges for peace and collaboration.

5. Preservation Techniques and Practices: Collaborate with preservation experts and organizations specializing in relic preservation to exchange knowledge, techniques, and best practices. This cooperation can enhance the preservation efforts of the Buddha tooth Relics, ensuring the adoption of the most advanced and effective preservation techniques.

6. Resource Sharing: Collaborate with other Buddhist organizations and institutions to share resources and support each other's initiatives. This cooperation can involve sharing research resources, educational materials, and logistical support to strengthen the capacity and impact of each organization's work.

7. Joint Fundraising Initiatives: Coordinate fundraising efforts with other Buddhist organizations and relevant stakeholders to support common goals. This cooperation can involve organizing joint fundraising events, campaigns, and initiatives to attract larger donor contributions and maximize fundraising outcomes.

8. Advocacy and Activism: Partner with like-minded organizations and advocacy groups to address pressing social and environmental issues. This cooperation can involve joint advocacy campaigns, awareness raising initiatives, and collaborative action to promote social justice, environmental sustainability, and ethical practices in alignment with Buddhist values.

9. Technology and Digital Initiatives: Leverage technology and digital platforms to enhance cooperation and reach a wider audience. This can include developing joint online platforms, mobile applications, and digital resources to share educational materials, promote dialogue, and foster a sense of community among individuals interested in Buddhism.

10. Support for Local Buddhist Communities: Collaborate with local Buddhist communities and organizations to provide support and resources for their activities. This cooperation can involve offering training programs, infrastructure development, and capacity building initiatives to strengthen local Buddhist communities and enhance their ability to spread the teachings of Buddhism.

11. Meditation Retreats and Exchanges: Collaborate with other meditation centers and organizations to organize joint meditation retreats and exchanges. This cooperation can provide participants with opportunities to experience different meditation techniques, deepen their practice, and learn from experienced teachers from various traditions.

12. Online Meditation Resources: Develop and share online meditation resources in collaboration with other meditation-focused organizations. This can include guided meditation recordings, instructional videos, and meditation apps that offer a variety of techniques and styles to cater to different interests and levels of experience. 

13. Meditation Research: Establish partnerships with research institutions and experts to conduct studies on the effects of meditation on mental and physical well-being. This cooperation can involve sharing data, resources, and findings to contribute to the scientific understanding of meditation's benefits and potential applications in healthcare, stress management, and personal development.

14. Meditation for Specific Populations: Collaborate with healthcare organizations, schools, and community centers to design and implement meditation programs tailored to specific populations, such as children, seniors, individuals with disabilities, and marginalized communities. This cooperation can help expand the reach and impact of meditation, making it accessible to diverse groups in need of stress reduction, emotional support, and overall well-being.

15. Meditation Teacher Training: Develop joint training programs and certifications for meditation teachers in collaboration with recognized meditation organizations. This cooperation can ensure high-quality training, standardized teaching methods, and mutual recognition of qualifications, fostering a professional community of meditation teachers who can effectively guide others in their meditation practice.

Sao Dhammasami "Siridantamahāpālaka"

Dr. Kalayan Priya Appointed Patron of Hswagata Buddha Tooth Relics Preservation Museum

In a significant development for the preservation and advancement of Buddhist heritage, Dr. Kalayan Priya, the esteemed abbot of the Bangladesh Buddhist Monastery in Gaya, India, has been appointed as the Patron of the Hswagata Buddha Tooth Relics Preservation Museum. This prestigious appointment comes with the vital role of providing guidance and fostering international relationships to further the museum's mission.

The decision to appoint Dr. Kalayan Priya as the Patron was made by the chairperson of Hswagata in December 2023, highlighting his exceptional contributions to the field of Buddhist studies and his dedication to promoting cultural understanding.

The Hswagata Buddha Tooth Relics Preservation Museum stands as a symbol of reverence and historical significance, housing relics that hold profound spiritual value for Buddhists worldwide. Located in a serene setting, the museum serves as a beacon for those seeking to deepen their understanding of Buddhism and its rich heritage.

Dr. Kalayan Priya's appointment brings with it a wealth of experience and knowledge, garnered through years of scholarly pursuit and spiritual practice. As the abbot of the Bangladesh Buddhist Monastery, situated in the heart of Gaya, a place revered by Buddhists as the site of the Buddha's enlightenment, Dr. Kalayan Priya embodies the spirit of reverence and devotion that lies at the core of Buddhist teachings.

His role as the Patron of the Hswagata Buddha Tooth Relics Preservation Museum underscores the museum's commitment to fostering strong ties with the global Buddhist community and promoting dialogue and exchange across cultural boundaries. Through his guidance, the museum aims to enrich its programs and initiatives, offering visitors a deeper insight into the significance of the relics housed within its walls.

Dr. Kalayan Priya's appointment heralds a new chapter in the museum's journey, one marked by collaboration, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to preserving and promoting Buddhist heritage for generations to come. As Patron, he will play a pivotal role in shaping the museum's vision and ensuring its continued success as a center of learning and spiritual enrichment.

With Dr. Kalayan Priya at the helm, the Hswagata Buddha Tooth Relics Preservation Museum looks forward to a future filled with promise and possibility, where the wisdom and teachings of the Buddha continue to inspire and enlighten all who walk through its doors. 

Why Bhikkhu Indasoma Siridantamahāpālaka planned to go Siri Lanka?

 

Bhikkhu Indasoma Siridantamahāpālaka planned to go to Sri Lanka in February of 2024 for a specific purpose related to the preservation of Buddha Tooth Relics. The decision stemmed from an encounter in Gaya, December 2023 ,India, during the International Sangha Forum, where a Myanmar Sangha Delegation Group, led by Sangha Mahanayaka Venerable Ashin Kon Din Nya and accompanied by counselors, attended. During this forum, they interacted with the Hswagata Founder, who likely shared insights into the preservation work concerning the Buddha Tooth Relics.

Upon learning about the preservation efforts, a senior monk within the Myanmar Sangha delegation suggested to Ashin Indasoma (also known as Ashin Dhammasami) that he should visit Sri Lanka. The purpose of this visit was to meet with the Sangha Raja (the highest-ranking monk) of Sri Lanka and the management team responsible for the Buddha Tooth Relics Temple. The objective was to report on the progress of DNA confirmation related to the preservation efforts.

Therefore, Ashin Indasoma embarked on this journey to Sri Lanka to meet with the relevant authorities and present detailed information about the activities undertaken by Hswagata in the preservation of the Buddha Tooth Relics. This visit likely aimed to strengthen collaboration and exchange knowledge between Myanmar and Sri Lanka regarding this significant aspect of Buddhist heritage preservation.

Q. What are the future plans for your organization?

The future plans for our organization encompass several key areas aimed at promoting peace, preserving relics, and advancing human rights based on Buddhist philosophy and teachings:

Preservation and Global Engagement: We aspire to engage with the global community in preserving Buddhist relics and cultural heritage. Through collaboration with international organizations, museums, and cultural institutions, we seek to raise awareness about the significance of relics and foster appreciation for Buddhist traditions worldwide.

 Peace Building Initiatives: Our organization is committed to promoting peace-building processes rooted in Buddhist principles of compassion, mindfulness, inside mediation, Buddhist Counselling Program, non-violence, and understanding. We aim to facilitate dialogue and reconciliation efforts in conflict-affected regions, leveraging the teachings of the Buddha to promote harmony and mutual respect among diverse communities.

Human Rights Advocacy: Drawing inspiration from Buddhist values, we advocate for human rights and social justice initiatives. Through education, advocacy campaigns, and partnerships with civil society organizations, we strive to uphold principles of equality, dignity, and justice for all individuals, regardless of background or identity.

 Hswagata Campaign: The Hswagata Campaign serves as a platform for collective action and advocacy on various issues, mindfulness and practice meditation,including good governance, anti-corruption measures, gender equality, disability rights, labor rights, peaceful conflict resolution by buddha meaning  , International Mediator Practice and environmental conservation. By mobilizing diverse stakeholders—from government agencies to grassroots organizations—we aim to create positive social change and address systemic challenges affecting communities worldwide.

Education and Outreach: Our organization is dedicated to promoting education and awareness about Buddhist philosophy, heritage, and values. Through educational programs, workshops, and outreach activities, we seek to empower individuals and communities with knowledge and tools for personal growth, ethical conduct, and social responsibility.

1. Educational Training

 The organization likely aims to offer training programs aimed at enhancing skills and knowledge in various fields.

2. Social Service Cooperation:

 Collaborating with other entities to address social issues and provide support to communities in need.

3. Buddha Sasana Development:

 Working towards the advancement and promotion of Buddhism, its teachings, and practices.

4. Youth Development:

 Engaging in activities and initiatives aimed at empowering and developing the youth.

5. Peace Promotion Activities:

 Undertaking efforts to foster peace and harmony within communities.

6. Buddha Education Development:

 Focusing on educational programs centered around Buddhist principles and teachings.

7. Environmental Conservation:

 Engaging in activities to preserve and protect the environment, possibly through advocacy, awareness campaigns, and practical initiatives.

8. Mindfulness Meditation Programs:

 Offering programs and sessions to promote mindfulness and meditation practices for mental and emotional well-being.

9. Vocational Training:

 Providing training opportunities for individuals to acquire vocational skills and improve employability.

10. Counselling Services:

 Offering counseling and support services to address various personal and emotional challenges.

11. Dhamma Talks:

 Organizing talks and discussions centered around Dhamma teachings and their application in daily life.

12. Research and Development - Digital Transformation Service:

 Exploring ways to leverage digital technologies to enhance services and reach a wider audience.

13. Programs for individuals with disabilities, mental illnesses, the elderly, and women empowerment: Developing programs tailored to address the needs of specific groups, including those with disabilities, mental illnesses, the elderly, and women, with a focus on empowerment and support.

The organization's future plan ,to prioritize holistic development, social welfare, and spiritual growth, catering to diverse segments of society and aiming to make a positive impact on individuals and communities.

By fostering collaboration, advocating for human rights, and promoting peace-building initiatives, we aspire to create a more compassionate, inclusive, and harmonious world, guided by the timeless wisdom of the Buddha.

Embracing Unity through Relic Preservation and Peace-Building

Mahantā mugga māsāca, majjhimā bhindataṇḍulā.

Khuddakā sāsapamattā, tepi gacchāmi dhātuyo. 

As I reflect on the journey that began around 2015 and continues to this day, I am reminded of the profound encounters and meaningful connections forged in the pursuit of preserving the historic Buddha Relics. As a young monk entrusted with the title of "The Guardians of Enlightenment" or Siridantamahāpālaka, I have navigated through diverse landscapes of challenges and triumphs, all in service of a sacred mission.

In the course of leadership, I have embraced myriad roles: from stewardship and protection to advocacy and outreach. With limited resources but boundless determination, I have remained steadfast in upholding our mission's clarity of purpose, vision, and core values. Each step forward has been marked by unwavering commitment to our ethical principles and standard operating procedures.

The pages of this magazine bear witness not only to our endeavors in relic preservation but also to the ripple effects of peace-building initiatives and ongoing programs that extend far into the future. To all who have contributed to this journey, I extend my deepest gratitude. Your support and dedication have been the cornerstone of our collective progress.

As we convey the essence of our message through these words, we extend an open invitation for collaboration and partnership. Hswagata embraces a universal vision: that the teachings of Buddha transcend borders, belonging to all humanity and promoting equality and peace. We welcome suggestions, cooperation, and the exchange of ideas with individuals, institutes, foundations, universities, and societies alike.

In the spirit of our motto, "Preserving Sacred Essence, Guiding Souls to Light," let us illuminate the path together towards a brighter, more harmonious world.

Bhikkhu Indasoma , Founder

Siridantamahāpālaka

The Hswagata Buddha Tooth Relics Preservation Private Museum

siridantamahapalaka@hswagatatoothrelics.com