Monks led by Ven. Paññākāra Thera conclude peace walk at Independence Square

Colombo, April 28 (Daily Mirror) -

A group of monks led by Venerable Paññākāra Thera, who had been walking across major cities including Anuradhapura, Kandy, and Colombo to promote compassion, mindfulness, and unity, reached Independence Square a short while ago.

The peaceful procession, which drew attention in several parts of the country, was carried out as part of an initiative to encourage social harmony and spiritual awareness among the public.

The monks were seen continuing their final stretch towards the landmark in Colombo, concluding their Ehipassiko Peace Walk amid messages highlighting compassion and national unity.

The walk spanned for seven days, starting in the ancient city of Anuradhapura and ending in the commercial capital, Colombo.

The walk commenced on 21 April 2026, as a seven-day Buddhist pilgrimage and spiritual march led by the Most Venerable Bhikkhu Paññākāra and a delegation of twelve monks. The first day of the program was centered in the historic city of Anuradhapura, where it began with a ceremonial gathering to receive blessings in front of the sacred Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi. 

A key event of the day included the ceremonial handover of a sacred Bodhi sapling and the display of venerated Buddhist relics, including those from the Nilagiri Cetiya, which were carried by the procession as symbols of peace and unity. Following these rituals, special religious observances and an "As Disa Pooja" were held at the Ruwanweliseya premises at 5 p.m to convey a message of compassion and mindfulness to the public.