Govt issues strict guidelines for Vesak celebrations

By Mangala Pavithrani

Colombo, May 19 (Daily Mirror) - The government has issued a new circular to regulate all programmes organised for the upcoming Vesak season, including Vesak zones and Dansals, with authorities banning activities considered inappropriate for the religious festival.

Speaking at a media briefing held at the Department of Government Information yesterday, Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs Hiniduma Sunil Senevi said activities such as head-banging events and haunted houses would not be permitted during Vesak celebrations.

He said organisers of Dansals had also been instructed to use yellow flags instead of Buddhist flags.

The Minister said the regulatory programme would be implemented jointly by the All Ceylon Shasanarakshaka Bala Mandalaya and state institutions.

Special guidelines have also been issued regarding the organisation of Dansals, Vesak decorations, road safety and public safety, he said.

Measures would also be taken to prevent inappropriate decorations and displays while strengthening coordination with security forces during the Vesak season.

“The State Vesak Festival will be held under the theme ‘Let’s rally together for the common good’ and will focus on social responsibility through Amisa and Prathipatti Pooja programmes,” the Minister said.

The State Vesak Festival is scheduled to commence on May 27 at the Midellawala Purana Viharaya with the participation of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

A series of programmes covering the entire Matara District will be conducted for a week until June 2.

Chief Secretary of the All Ceylon Shasanarakshaka Bala Mandalaya, Venerable Mugunuwela Anuruddha, said several religious and community development projects, including the development of temples and monasteries in the Matara District, would be carried out in line with this year’s Vesak festival.

He also said that a delegation from Vietnam is expected to participate in this year’s Vesak celebrations.