May 04, 2026.

The Department of Pali and Buddhist Studies at the University of Kelaniya recently held a prestigious felicitation ceremony to honor the lifetime achievements of Emeritus Professor Tilak Kariyawasam.

The event was presided over by the Vice-Chancellor, Senior Professor Nilanthi de Silva, who served as the Chief Guest. A major highlight of the gathering was the official unveiling of the commemorative scholarly volume, "Contemporary Insights into Buddhist Philosophy and Culture." Edited by Senior Professor Udita Garusinghe, this work compiles diverse academic perspectives as a tribute to Professor Kariyawasam’s enduring influence on Buddhist philosophy and Sri Lankan culture.

Distinguished speakers, including Ven. Prof. Medagoda Abhayatissa Thera and Ven. Senior Prof. Nabiriththankadawara Gnanaratana Thera, shared reflections on the Professor’s role as a mentor and visionary researcher. The ceremony underscored the university's commitment to preserving and advancing the rich intellectual traditions that Professor Kariyawasam has championed throughout his career.

The newly launched volume stands as a permanent record of his contributions, offering fresh scholarly insights for the next generation of academics in the field of Humanities.