Rev. Dr. Kirinde Assaji awarded lifetime achievement honor by KITT University

Colombo / New Delhi – Ven. Dr. Kirinde Assaji, Chief Incumbent of Gangaramaya Temple, has been conferred the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award by KITT University in recognition of his exceptional contributions to Buddhist scholarship, spiritual leadership, and the strengthening of Sri Lanka–India cultural relations.

This marks the first time a Sri Lankan has received the distinguished Lifetime Achievement Award from the university.

The award has previously been presented to several eminent personalities, including former Indian President Pranab Mukherjee, along with other globally respected leaders who have made significant international contributions. The recognition of Ven. Dr. Assaji places him among an esteemed group of past honorees and highlights the international stature of his service.

Ven. Dr. Assaji has maintained longstanding ties with India, playing a key role in fostering religious and cultural cooperation between the two nations. In a historic gesture symbolizing deep spiritual friendship, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi facilitated the sacred exposition of Buddhist Relics from India in Sri Lanka for the first time, hosted at Gangaramaya Temple.

Prime Minister Modi also attended as Chief Guest at the 2017 State Vesak Ceremony held at Gangaramaya Temple, marking a significant moment in Sri Lanka–India religious diplomacy.

An accomplished scholar, Ven. Dr. Assaji completed both his Master’s Degree and PhD at the University of Delhi, further strengthening his academic and spiritual connections with India. His decades of religious service and international engagement have contributed significantly to advancing Buddhist diplomacy and intercultural understanding.

The award from KITT University is regarded as a milestone in the enduring partnership between Sri Lanka and India, underscoring the important role of religious and cultural diplomacy in promoting regional harmony, mutual respect, and cooperation.

Expressing gratitude for the honour, Ven. Dr. Assaji dedicated the award to the Buddhist communities of Sri Lanka and India, reaffirming his continued commitment to deepening the historic and spiritual ties between the two nations.