SRILANKA, Dec. 4 -- Lord Buddha attained enlightenment while meditating under the Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, India. Centuries later, Sangamitta Theri, accompanied by royal family members and a group of Buddhist nuns, arrived at Dambakolapatuna Port in Jaffna on an Unduvap Poya day. The sapling, carried with reverence in a golden vessel, was ceremonially planted in the Mahamewna Garden in Anuradhapura by King Devanampiya Tissa. Over time, saplings from this ancient tree spread across the island, helping to preserve Buddhist teachings and shaping the cultural identity of Sri Lanka for generations.

Beyond her religious mission, Sangamitta Theri brought valuable knowledge in woodwork, weaving, farming, and traditional medicine. These sk...