Sri Lanka refuses entry to British tourist with Buddha tattoo

– Submitted by Walter Jayawardhana –
COLOMBO: Sri Lankan immigration authorities have deported a British national who had arrived on holiday to the island.
The Briton, who arrived here yesterday, was quizzed by the authorities at Bandaranaike International Airport as he was having images of Buddha tattooed all over his body. The Briton explained that it was his free personal choice.
The act was deemed offensive to the majority Sinhalese community, who constitute 74 per cent of Lanka’s population.
The airport officials in consultation with their seniors decided not to allow him an entry.
British tourists are the second largest inbound travel market in the island’s booming tourism industry after Indians.
Sri Lanka has a majority of population, around 74 per cent, from Sinhalese community (Courtesy: The Times of India)
Latest Headlines in Sri Lanka
- Sri Lanka revises fuel prices from February 1, 2026 January 31, 2026
- Sri Lanka declares essential services to ensure recovery after Cyclone Ditwah January 31, 2026
- Sri Lanka disburses Rs. 50,000 relief to 70% of Cyclone Ditwah victims January 31, 2026
- Sri Lanka to launch national review on social media’s impact on children January 30, 2026
- Sri Lanka, Saudi Arabia move to boost industrial cooperation January 30, 2026


Good…..!!!!!!!
This was the right action for desecrating Buddhism by someone who is not even a Buddhist. We can do without the money of such tourists who have no respect for Buddhism.
Paccha (Tattoo) Karma.
Normally people tattoo images and pictures they like and revere. Some make Statures. Some make necklaces.
So, if this tourist liked Buddhas Teachings, what is wrong with it if the picture is what is normally found in a picture that is framed?
Buddha never said that he was God. He never asked people to make Statues of him, and venerate the statures.
The Buddhists in Sri Lanka have not understood Lord Buddhas teachings of the Dharma and Vinaya. They are beginning to be like Wahhabis and it will destroys the Middle Path of Buddhism.