Leelaratna recognised for boosting Canada–Sri Lanka heritage, entrepreneurship ties

Visita Sirin Leelaratna, a Canadian and Sri Lankan citizen and founder of Sirin Park, was recognised for his decade-long efforts to strengthen ties between Canada and Sri Lanka through heritage, entrepreneurship, and spiritual exchange.

In a gesture of friendship and cultural diplomacy, High Commissioner Esabella Marin warmly welcomed Leelaratna to the official residence of the Canadian High Commissioner at Canada House, Colombo.

During the meeting, Leelaratna presented a traditional Deva mask from Ambalangoda, symbolising Sri Lanka's rich artistic legacy, alongside a framed Dharma Chakra road sign — originating in Ottawa in 2012 and later installed at the Sirin Park Buddhist Centre and in Ambalangoda in 2018. These gifts underscored the shared spiritual identity uniting both nations and stand as enduring symbols of universal belonging.

As the founder of Sirin Park Eco Tour, Leelaratna also outlined his vision for community empowerment and environmental stewardship. Sirin Park, located in Ginimellagaha, Baddegama, features Canadian symbols including the national flag, Inuit sculptures, and the Sri Lanka–Canada Friendship Buddhist Garden, standing as a living tribute to bilateral harmony.

The High Commissioner was also briefed on Leelaratna's landmark initiatives, including the organisation of Canada’s 150th Anniversary Vesak celebration in 2017 at Ottawa City Hall and Parliament Hill — the first of its kind in Canada’s capital — and the successful certification of federal e-petition E-6893, establishing Buddhist Heritage Month across Canada each May through an Act of Parliament.

A document package was presented, comprising the certified petition, the Ottawa Mayor’s official proclamation of Buddhist Heritage Month in Canada’s capital in 2026, the Vesak in Ottawa 2017 flyer, and the Sirin Park Eco Tour promotional page.

The meeting reaffirmed a partnership rooted in compassion, heritage, and mutual respect, and celebrated the enduring Canada–Sri Lanka cultural bridge built by Leelaratna through a lifetime of dedicated service.

Picture: Visita Sirin Leelaratna presenting a Deva mask to High Commissioner Esabella Marin at the official residence of the Canadian High Commissioner, Colombo, on March 30.