Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the sacred Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi temple in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, on Sunday, accompanied by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. The Bodhi tree at the temple is believed to have originated from a sapling brought from Bodhgaya, India, by Sanghamitta Theri in the 3rd Century BCE. (PICS/PTI)
Updated on : 06 April,2025 12:39 PM IST | Compiled by : Anisha Shrivastava
Modi described the visit as a deeply humbling experience, calling the site a living symbol of peace, enlightenment and spiritual continuity. The visit underscored the longstanding civilisational ties between India and Sri Lanka, particularly through the shared heritage of Buddhism.
During his time in Anuradhapura, Modi sought blessings from the head monk at the revered Buddhist shrine. The two leaders jointly inaugurated the Sampur Solar Power Plant, which is expected to contribute significantly to Sri Lanka’s energy security.
They also launched the Dambulla Agricultural Cold Storage Complex, aimed at supporting the livelihoods of local farmers. A major initiative to install solar panels across 5,000 religious sites was also announced, marking a push towards sustainable infrastructure.
Modi expressed pride in India’s role in supporting Sri Lanka’s development across various sectors, calling it a boost for bilateral connectivity and friendship. The visit followed Modi’s trip to Thailand and began with his arrival in Colombo on Saturday, during which he also paid tribute at the Indian Peace Keeping Force Memorial.
They also launched the advanced signalling and telecommunication system for the Maho-Anuradhapura railway section.
Modi and Dissanayake inaugurated the upgraded track of the Maho-Omanthai railway line, a key project supported by India.
