Sri Lanka Field Trip Report: Lessons in Love, Compassion, and Self-Dependence

11-15 September 2023

The Sri Lanka field trip was an extraordinary chapter in the realm of spiritual journeys and cross-cultural experiences. It was more than just a mere exploration; it was an immersion into the divine and a revelation of love transcending boundaries. The visit to temples in Sri Lanka unveiled the vibrant tapestry of devotion and showcased the ongoing projects inspired by the teachings of Swami.

The field trip objectives were to:

• Gain educational insight into the cultural and religious significance of the temples and heritage sites visited.

• Promote cultural understanding by interacting with the local communities, their traditions, and beliefs.

• Encourage tourism and appreciation for Sri Lanka's rich cultural and natural heritage.

• Gain spiritual experiences and practices observed at the various temples and historical sites.

• Celebrate the diversity of beliefs, traditions, and initiatives that contribute to the cultural tapestry of Sri Lanka.

The participants of the field trip were 24 students from various departments at Sri Sathya Sai University for Human Excellence.

Day 1: The trip began with a visit to the Lord Muneeshwara and Badri Kali Amman temple, which is known for its spiritual significance among the locals.

Day 2: The next day, the group explored Colombo's Buddhist heritage by visiting Sri Mahabodhi Vihara, home to the world's oldest Bodhi tree. Afterward, they journeyed to the historic Tiruketheshwara temple in Mannar, known for its ancient Shiva Linga idol. In the afternoon, they witnessed the launch of the nutrition program, Sai Sure, sponsored by Sathya Sai Annapoorna Trust, benefiting local government school children. They also had the privilege of witnessing the illumination of the Sri Dhanush Kodi Rama Kshethram in Talainannar.

Day 3: On this day, the group visited the revered Thirukoneshwara temple, where both Lord Rama and Ravana are believed to have worshipped and installed a powerful Shiva Lingam. In the evening, they toured the Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Hospital in Batticaloa, which was celebrating its first anniversary. The hospital showcased the free healthcare services provided in the Eastern Province and its vision to evolve into a multi-specialty hospital to support children in need of pediatric cardiac care.

Day 4: The group explored the temple where Sita Mata exhibited her purity during the Ramayana by leaping into the fire. Despite past foreign invasions, the temple has been restored by Buddhists, symbolizing their belief in the Dash avatars mentioned in Hindu scriptures. This place, known as Ashoka Vatika, provides a remarkable glimpse into ancient times.

Day 5: On the final day, the group visited the G&G Tea Factory, founded by Sri Madhusudan Sai. This self-sustaining company spans 8,000 acres with 7,000 employees. It also empowers the daughters of its workers by training them as team leaders. The interaction with these empowered women inspired the group towards selfless work and self-dependence.

Learning outcomes:

• The journey provided a valuable opportunity to immerse oneself in the rich tapestry of Sri Lanka's cultures.

• As the group visited numerous temples in Sri Lanka dedicated to the epic of Ramayana, they delved into the country's history, uncovering its fascinating stories and traditions.

• This experience not only deepened their understanding but also fostered a newfound appreciation for the diverse and captivating culture of Sri Lanka.

Conclusion:

The Sri Lanka field trip was a profound exploration of spirituality, culture, and the enduring power of love and service. The group departed with a deeper understanding of their neighboring country, a stronger sense of unity with their global community, and a renewed commitment to carry forward the lessons learned on this transformative trip. They returned home carrying with them the enduring message that love transcends boundaries, and compassion knows no limits.