PM Modi Visits Jaya Shri Mahabodhi Temple in Anuradhapura, Strengthening India-Sri Lanka Ties
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accompanied by Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, paid a visit to the revered Jaya Shri Mahabodhi Temple in Anuradhapura on Saturday, seeking blessings at one of the most spiritually significant sites for both India and Sri Lanka.
During the visit, the chief priest of the temple tied a ‘Raksha Sutra’ (protective thread) on Prime Minister Modi’s wrist, symbolizing a gesture of protection and goodwill. This sacred temple holds profound civilizational importance as it is home to the Bodhi tree, which is believed to have been planted from a sapling brought from India by Theri Sanghamitta, the daughter of Emperor Ashoka.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri highlighted the significance of the visit, stating, “On April 6, President Dissanayake and the Prime Minister will travel together to the historic city of Anuradhapura. They will pay their respects at the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi temple, which holds a special significance in the India-Sri Lanka Civilisational Partnership. The sapling brought by Theri Sanghamitta from India was planted in the precincts of this temple.”
Upon his arrival in Anuradhapura, Prime Minister Modi was received with a Guard of Honour from the Sri Lankan Air Force, marking a ceremonial welcome. The Prime Minister took to social media to share the moment, posting, “In Anuradhapura with my friend, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.”
Beyond the spiritual visit, both leaders also jointly inaugurated the upgraded railway track of the Maho-Omanthai line and the newly constructed signaling system for the Maho-Anuradhapura railway segment. These projects, developed with Indian assistance, represent a significant step in strengthening the infrastructure partnership between India and Sri Lanka. The upgraded railway projects were executed by IRCON International Limited, a Public Sector Undertaking under the Ministry of Railways, Government of India.
The visit also saw comprehensive discussions between PM Modi and President Dissanayake aimed at deepening bilateral relations, with an emphasis on collaboration in infrastructure and other sectors.
In recognition of his contributions to fostering Indo-Sri Lankan relations, Prime Minister Modi was conferred with the prestigious Sri Lanka Mitra Vibhushan, one of Sri Lanka’s highest civilian honours. This accolade highlights the enduring friendship and historical ties between the two nations.
Additionally, the leaders signed and exchanged several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) across various sectors, unveiling key India-supported initiatives to further strengthen the partnership between India and Sri Lanka.
