Prelims – Current events of International Importance
Mains (GS II) – Bilateral relations
Why in News?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently visited the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi temple at the historic city of Anuradhapura during his trip to Srilanka.
Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi tree is considered the oldest living cultivated plant in the world.
It is believed to have grown from a branch that an Indian princess carried to Sri Lanka.
This Bo (Ficus religiosa, Pipal in Hindi) tree is believed to have grown from a branch of the tree in Bodhgaya (Bihar) under which Gautam Buddha attained enlightenment.
The branch was carried to Sri Lanka by Sanghamitta (or Sanghamitra), the Mauryan king Ashoka’s daughter and Buddhist nun.
Spread of Buddhism in Sri Lanka -During the reign of Ashoka, the 3rd Buddhist Council was convened, where it was decided to send missionaries to various regions to propagate the teachings of Buddhism.
As part of this mission, Mahinda, Ashoka's son, travelled to Sri Lanka.
There, he met King Devanampiya Tissa, who was the ruler of Anuradhapura, and successfully converted him to Buddhism.
Sanghamitta had travelled to Sri Lanka in response to an invitation from King Devanampiya Tissa, as well as the request of her brother, Mahendra (or Mahinda).
Her arrival in Sri Lanka with the tree is still celebrated as Uduvapa Poya, an annual festival observed on a full moon night in December.
The tree, along with the other Buddhist shrines in the ancient city of Anuradhapura, is a major pilgrimage centre for Buddhists.
Anuradhapura- It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Anuradhapura was established around the 4th century BCE by King Pandukabhaya, the first King of Sri Lanka.
Anuradhapura remained the capital of Lankan rulers from 377 BC to 1017 CE.
It is known for its ancient monuments, monasteries, and palaces, which have drawn pilgrims and historians alike for centuries.
Other Buddhist sites in Anuradhapura - Jetavanaramaya Stupa, Ruwanwelisaya Dagoba, Isurumuniya Temple, Ranmasu Uyana.
