Launch of the UK 2600th Sambuddha Jayanthi (Anniversary of the Enlightenment of the Buddha) Celebration 2011 in London.
By Ven. Akurala Samitha (Dhamma Nikethanaya Buddhist Centre)

Sri Lankan Sangha Sabha of United Kingdom hosted a special meeting on 28th July 2010 at London Buddhist Vihara to discuss the initiatives for a collective mass celebration in UK to mark the historical milestone of 2600th Sambuddha Jayanthi (Anniversary of the Enlightenment of the Buddha) in 2011.

Venerable Bogoda Seelawimala Nayaka Thero (The Chief Prelate of UK), head of the London Buddhist Vihara chaired the meeting and a considerable number of monks and representatives of Buddhist organizations attended. Among them, Venerable Dr Witharandeniye Kasspa Thero OBE, Ajahn Amaro Bhikkhu representing Amaravati Monastery and Forest Sangha Trust, Louise Marchant (registrar) – representing The Buddhist Society (London) were also present.

Buddhism has become a beacon in UK ever since its inception due to the compassionate message of Lord Buddha. Diverse cultures, countries, schools, scholars, historical renowned missionaries of Buddhism equally bear the prestigious credit of the present inspirational upbringing of Buddhism, extending from individual and household inceptions into Education (schools), prisons, military, hospitals, ecology & environment movements. Valuing the historical contributions of everyone and all the groups, Sri Lankan Sangha Sabha of United Kingdom called for solidarity to hold a national celebration in UK.

Buddhists in UK are getting devoutly ready to launch this mass celebration of 2600th Sambuddha Jayanthi (Anniversary of the Enlightenment of the Buddha) on 29th May 2011 in London. Representatives were determined to make sure that the celebration is inspiring, different and organized. It should convey a good message about Buddhism including the ways in which Buddhist in UK work towards the public benefit; activities in the community.

It was agreed to hold the second meeting on 28th August 2010 at 3pm at The Buddhist Society (No: 58, Eccleston Sq, London SW1V 1PH) facilitating all other Buddhist organizations to participate and pay a key role in organizing the event. In that meeting, we intend to appoint a working committee and also sub committees for programme managements, communications, fund raisings, publications, decorations & hall arrangements and other businesses.

Sri Lankan Sangha Sabha of United Kingdom openly and compassionately invites everyone to join and support in this historical, rewarding and unique opportunity.

For more information: Sri Lankan Sangha Sabha of United Kingdom - London Buddhist Vihara - The Avenue, Bedford Park, Chiswick, London W4 1UD. United Kingdom - Telephone: 0044 208 9959493 Email: slscgb@gmail.com Website: www.sanghasabhauk.org