Buddhism links India, Sri Lanka: Sri Lankan envoy

New Delhi, May 14 (IANS) Buddhism stands for harmony, tolerance ad equity, and has been one of the many links between India and Sri Lanka, the island country's envoy said here Wednesday.

"Buddhism is a religion of peace and therefore its followers should spread the message of peace in the world," High Commissioner Prasad Kariyawasam said.

He was speaking at a function to celebrate the 2,558th Buddha Jayanti organised by the Young Men Buddhist Association at the National Museum here.

He added that India's connection with Sri Lanka in recent times has improved because of Buddhism.

More than 70 percent of the population in Sri Lanka is Buddhist.

"It is very necessary to recognise the sacrifice Lord Buddha made for the welfare of human civilisation," Kariyawasam said.

Buddha Purnima or Buddha Jayanti is celebrated to mark the birth of Lord Buddha.

It falls on the full moon day in the month of Vaisakh (April-May) and is celebrated with traditional religious fervour.

Kariyawasam said that the teachings of Lord Buddha were relevant even in today's world and made people learn how to move toward excellence.

"Lord Buddha's teachings can never be outdated. They were relevant in the past, are relevant in the present and will always be relevant in the future. It helps its follower to move towards excellence in their life," Kariyawasam said.