Date:29/06/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/06/29/stories/2008062957840200.htm

Tamil Nadu - Chennai

Ancient folklore, on stage

Staff Reporter

— Photo: V. Ganesan

A scene from the dance drama.

CHENNAI: The Deputy High Commission for Sri Lanka in southern India organised a dance drama on Saturday to celebrate ‘Poson Full Moon Poya Day’.

It was on this day in 247 BC that Arahath Mahinda, the son of Emperor Ashoka, took Buddhism to Sri Lanka. Accompanied by monks, he met the reigning king Devanampiya Tissa. Celebrated as Poson Full Moon Poya Day, the day marks the strong ties between India and the nation. The dance drama on ‘Messages of Buddhism’ by Jayapriya Vikraman was staged at The Music Academy.

Deputy High Commissioner P.M. Amza said the sacred Bo sapling planted at Anuradhapura by Therani Sangamitta, the daughter of Emperor Ashoka, is protected by a golden fence. The site, situated in north central province of Sri Lanka, is a heritage site. Ms. Vikraman and her group presented two dance dramas in Kuchipudi style — one about the arrival of the daughter and son of Ashoka and the other of an untouchable girl Chandalika.