by Rahul Kumar
Bodh Gaya, Bihar: Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake arrived in Bodh Gaya on Tuesday morning as part of his three-day official visit to India. Accompanied by Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath, Deputy Finance Minister Anil Jayanta, and a delegation of officials, the President was warmly welcomed by the Mahabodhi Society of India. Bhante P Sivali Thero, General Secretary of the Society, Dr. Mahashweta Maharathi, Secretary of BTMC, and other members greeted the delegation with a traditional food offering near the Bodh Gaya Temple Management Committee (BTMC).
Tight security arrangements were in place across Bodh Gaya ahead of his visit. District Magistrate Dr. Tyagarajan SM and Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Ashish Bharti were also present to oversee the security measures. The Sri Lankan President arrived at Gaya International Airport at 8:30 am by special plane, and was escorted to the Mahabodhi Temple with stringent security protocols.
Upon reaching the temple, President Dissanayake was received by BTMC officials, including the chief priest, who also presented him with a food offering. The Sri Lankan President then visited the sanctum sanctorum of the Mahabodhi Temple, where he offered special prayers. Following the prayers, he toured the temple premises, including the Bodhi Tree and Chakraman Sthal.
In light of the high-profile visit, strict security measures were implemented, with public access to the Mahabodhi Temple restricted from 8:40 am to 10:15 am to ensure safety.
This marks President Dissanayake’s first foreign visit since taking office in September. Prior to his arrival in Bodh Gaya, he met with key leaders in New Delhi, including President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and engaged with Indian business leaders. The visit underscores the strengthening of economic and diplomatic ties between India and Sri Lanka.
