Canberra: Representative Karma Singey of the Office of Tibet in Canberra attended the historic occasion of the sacred Bodhi tree sapling planting ceremony at the Great Stupa of Universal Compassion at Bendigo in Australia on 9 June 2024.
The event was co-organised by the Great Stupa of Compassion and Bodhi Dhamma Vihara Bengido to mark the planting of the first ever authenticated Maha Bodhi tree sapling brought from Sri Lanka to Australia.
Numerous dignitaries attended the auspicious occasion, including Sri Lankan Religious and Culture Minister Hon Vidura Wickkramanayaka, Australia’s Victoria State Premier Hon Jacinta Allan MP, Federal Parliament member for Bendigo Lisa Chester MP, Sri Lankan High Commissioner to Australia Chitranganee Wagiswara, Consulate General of India in Melbourne Dr. Sushil Kumar, and many other prominent community representatives.
In a written message for the commemorative book published on the occasion, Representative Karma Singey wrote, “I hope this historic planting of the scared sampling of the Bodhi tree at the Great Stupa, which was modelled on the 14th century stupa at Gyantse in Tibet, helps to spread the values of Buddhism far and wide, for the benefit of all sentient beings and for world peace.”
He further mentioned that “During His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s visit to the Great Stupa in 2007, His Holiness said he would like to see this stupa become a centre for interfaith activity and Buddhism-Science dialogue. I am pleased that today, with the unwavering determination of Mr Ian Green and his dedicated team, you have succeeded in this ambitious and auspicious endeavour.”
The event saw the presentation of traditional dances by various communities, including Tashi Sholpa Tibetan cultural dance by Victorian Tibetan Community.
-Report filed by Office of Tibet, Canberra