Vesak in Sri Lanka 12th May 2025 @ 7.00pm at the All Ceylon Buddies congress , Colombo 7 , Sri Lanka .

 What is Vesak in Sri Lanka?

Vesak is celebrated as a

religious and a cultural

festival in Sri Lanka on the

full moon of the lunar month

of Vesak (usually in the

Gregorian month of May), for about one

week, and this festival is often celebrated by

people of different religions in Sri Lanka.

What are the Vesak lights in Sri

Lanka?

Vesak lanterns called Vesak koodu are I

most of the homes in Sri Lanka on Vesal

poya day. The lighting signifies an offerir

the memory of the Buddha who delivere

message of Dhamma. In ancient times,

people used their clay oil lamps for

illumination.

How is Vesak celebrated?

Al Overview

Vesak, or Buddha Day, is celebrated by

Buddhists worldwide with a variety of rituals

and activities, primarily focused on

commemorating the Buddha's birth,

enlightenment, and death. Key traditions

include temple decorations, singing hymns,

offering flowers, and perfornming acts of

kindness and charity. o

Here's a more detailed look at

Vesak celebrations:

Temple Decorations and

Offerings:

Temples are adorned with flowers, lights, and the

Buddhist flag. Devotees gather before dawn,

bringing offerings like flowers, candles, and

incense sticks. @

Bathing the Buddha Ceremony:

A significant ritual involves bathing a statu

Buddha with water or fragrant tea, symbo

purification and respect. @

Religious Practices:

Recitation of sutras (religious texts), prayers, and

meditations are common.

Good Deeds and Charity:

Buddhists may abstain from meat and alcohol,

clean their homes, and give alms to the poor and

monks.

Vesak Pandols:

In Sri Lanka, elaborate illuminated pandols

(structures) depicting stories from the Buddha's

past lives are erected.

Cultural Festivals:

Vesak often involves flower parades and other

cultural events, contributing to a festive and

spiritual atmosphere. e

International Observance:

Vesak is recognized internationally by the United

Nations, commemorated at UN Headquarters and

other offices. @