Reprint of Pali Grammar Text ‘Balawatharo’ Launched

The ancient Pali grammar book *Balawatharo* has been reprinted by the Pathfinder Foundation with support from the High Commission of India in Colombo and the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), Government of India.

The reprint was officially launched by Deputy High Commissioner Dr. Satyanjal Pandey at the sacred Dalada Maligawa Temple in Kandy, in collaboration with the Pathfinder Foundation.

Copies of the book were presented to senior members of the Buddhist clergy, including Most Ven. Dimbulkumbure Sri Saranankara Wimaladhammabhidana Thero, Most Ven. Dr. Niyangoda Wijithasiri Thero, and Most Ven. Wedaruwe Dharmakeerthi Sri Rathanapala Upali Thero, along with other venerable Theros of the Malwatte and Asgiriya chapters.

This marks the second ancient Pali text reprinted by the Pathfinder Foundation, following the earlier reissue of *Namamala*. The initiative aims to make these foundational texts more accessible to students of Pali in Sri Lankan Pirivenas and schools.

During the event, members of the Mahasangha expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for declaring Pali a Classical Language and for his continued support in promoting Pali studies.

Dr. Pandey reaffirmed India’s commitment to preserving Buddhist heritage.

He highlighted India’s recent intervention to halt the auction of sacred relics of Lord Buddha in Hong Kong, emphasizing their cultural and spiritual significance.

These relics, originally discovered in Piprahwa in 1898, have since been repatriated to India, allowing devotees — including those from Sri Lanka—to pay their respects.

The shared heritage of the Pali language continues to symbolize the deep spiritual and cultural ties between India and Sri Lanka.