NPC hosted District Inter Religious Committee meetings under the Plural Action for Inclusion, Reconciliation, and Social Justice (PAIRS) project funded by Misereor and CAFOD in the Anuradhapura, Colombo, Jaffna and Polonnaruwa districts to foster harmony and unity among Sri Lanka’s diverse ethnic and religious groups with a focus on deepening understanding of Hindu culture.
Discussions were conducted to assess ethnic and religious tensions across districts, which revealed that a lack of understanding of different religions and cultures often leads to conflicts ranging from minor disagreements to significant disputes. Such tensions underscore the importance of initiatives that bridge knowledge gaps and build mutual respect among communities.
A highlight of the meetings was the exploration of Thai Pongal, a Hindu festival that expresses gratitude for nature’s gifts and a good harvest, strengthening bonds within families and neighbourhoods and fostering an atmosphere of peace and harmony. Participants from Buddhist, Christian and Islamic communities were encouraged to appreciate and respect Hindu culture, creating opportunities for meaningful dialogue and connection and fostering mutual understanding. Similarities highlighted the shared values and sentiments across all religious traditions, thereby reducing the potential for conflict, and encouraging coexistence.
Kegalle District Inter Religious Committee (DIRC) members conducted a Thai Pongal celebration at Northland Estate in Warakapola with the People’s Development Foundation while Puttalam DIRC members held an event at the Muthu Mari Amman Kovil with WODEPT and Vavuniya DIRC members organized a similar event with the Federation of Institutions for Rural Management.
“Both traditions, Hinduism and Buddhism, regard the sun, the moon and cows as sacred, which is also mentioned in Buddhist teachings. By understanding the relationships within and between religions, we can reduce the divisive atmosphere that often arises between communities,” said Ven. Dr. Madampagama Assaji Thissa Thero, Mahanayaka of the Amarapura Maha Nikaya, at the Colombo District meeting.
M.S. Amjath Moulavi from the Medawachchiya Jumma Mosque at the Anuradhapura meeting said, “Attending Thai Pongal was truly heart-warming. The communal spirit of the celebration reminded me of Eid where families and communities come together to share meals and strengthen bonds. I appreciated Thai Pongal’s message of peace and harmony, which reflects Islamic teachings on unity and living peacefully with others. Being part of this celebration was a wonderful experience that highlighted our shared values of gratitude, togetherness and mutual respect, fostering a deeper connection with people from diverse backgrounds.”
Religious leaders, women political leaders, youth leaders participated at the meetings, which advanced efforts to promote harmony, social justice and peace.