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Jeffrey J. Lunstad,
Ambassador of the U.S.A.,
American Embassy,
210,
Galle Road,
Colombo 3.
Your
Excellency,
Regarding film “Hollywood
Buddha” which ridicules Lord Buddha
Electronic and print media in
Sri Lanka had recently published details about the film “Hollywood
Buddha” which ridicules Lord Buddha and His teaching. According to these
reports premiere of this film is to be held on the 23rd,
September, 2004 in Los Angeles. The film directed by Philippe Thailand
scoff at Lord Buddha’s character and His teaching. This is certainly an
unethical act.
Anyone who values religious
harmony, respects other religions cannot approve this type of dastardly
act. This type of film would create defiance and hatred in the minds of
the followers of relevant religions. This is not the only incident which
has attempted to ridicule Lord Buddha. In the recent past there were
many incidents where Buddha image had been used in women’s undergarments
and advertisements. These incidents indicate that a large scale
conspiracy is being hatched against Buddhism. We believe that the hidden
objective of this conspiracy is to incite the Buddhists towards a
religious war. It is the duty of all those who value religious harmony
and with authority to everything possible to avoid such a situation.
All founders of religions have
directed their teachings to develop a virtuous society. No righteous
person can ridicule the founders of religions. Hence, the international
community which esteems religious harmony should condemn Philippe
Thailand’s film with contempt.
The director of the film, as a
result of the opposition from Thai Buddhists, has already apologized and
agreed to withdraw the photograph in the advertisement for the film and
to display a message apologizing when the film is being shown. This is
not adequate. He should also remove all scenes which ridicule Buddhism.
We vehemently demand that this should be done and call upon your
Excellency to inform your government to take action to halt all attempts
to ridicule Buddhism.
Yours truly,
Patriotic National Movement (PNM) - Sri Lanka |
