A low-key Vesak ceremony this year

• With restrictions due to COVID-19, SL will witness muted celebrations of the otherwise glamorous Vesak festival

By Sandun A. Jayasekera

The State Vesak ceremony was held at Temple Trees yesterday with the participation of Maha Sangha of the three Nikayas and Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa.  

The Prime Minister performed the religious rites together with Minister Bandula Gunawardane at a small-scale ceremony at his official residence which saw the participation of a limited crowd. The Chief Prelates of the three Nikayas made Anusasanas at the ceremony, Commissioner General of Buddhist Affairs, Sunanda Kariyapperuma said.   

The State Vesak Festival will take place from today (May 7) to 8 at the Horana Gonapola Olaboduwa Purana Rajamaha Viharaya in Kalutara.   

The government has declared a National Vesak Week from May 4 to 11, and has ordered liquor stores, casinos, and meat stalls to remain closed during this period.