High Commission of Sri Lanka in India

The Maha Bodhi Society of India hosted a commemorative event titled “Thank You Bharat” on Sunday, 8 February 2026, at the Buddha Vihara, New Delhi, to acknowledge India’s humanitarian assistance to Sri Lanka in the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah. The Minister of State for External Affairs of India, Pabitra Margherita, graced the occasion as Chief Guest. Sri Lanka’s High Commissioner to India, Mahishini Colonne, participated in the event.

Welcoming the Chief Guest as well as others present, the General Secretary of the Maha Bodhi Society of India, Ven. Pelwatte Seewalee Thero underlined the spiritual and historical bonds between the two nations. Stating that the relationship with India goes beyond material support, he emphasized that the India - Sri Lanka partnership is rooted in shared values of compassion, friendship and cultural connections that bind the people of both countries.

In her remarks, the High Commissioner expressed Sri Lanka’s deep appreciation for India’s swift and generous support extended towards Sri Lanka. Recalling India’s immediate response and the announcement of a USD 450 million reconstruction package to support Sri Lanka’s recovery and reconstruction, she noted that India’s support reflects the spirit of its ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and the enduring bonds of friendship between the two countries.

In his address, Minister of State, Pabitra Margherita reaffirmed India’s commitment to stand with Sri Lanka as a trusted partner and first responder in times of need. He underscored the growing partnership between the two countries across trade, development, connectivity, and people-to-people exchanges and stated that the India - Sri Lanka partnership remains a global model of neighbourly relations.

The event was attended by the members of the Maha Sangha, members of the Sri Lankan community, media, students, and well-wishers.

The Maha Bodhi Society of India was founded by Anagarika Dharmapala in 1891 with the purpose of restoring and protecting the sacred sites associated with the life of Lord Buddha for future generations.

• Remarks by H.E. Mahishini Colonne High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to India at the Thank You Bharat event - Mahabodhi Society of India - Buddha Vihar - New Delhi on 4 p.m., Sunday 08 February 2026

• Remarks by the Minister of State for External Affairs of India, Pabitra Margherita, “Thank You India” Event organised by Mahabodhi Society of India - 08 February 2026

 
High Commission of Sri Lanka
New Delhi

12 February 2026