The holy ‘Vesak Poya Day’ is celebrated today (May 12).

Buddhists all over the world celebrate the Vesak Full Moon Poya Day today (May 12).

Buddhists commemorate Siddhartha Gautama’s birth, the enlightenment of the Buddha, and the passing away on the Vesak Full Moon Poya Day.

Vesak Poya Day holds special significance for Sri Lanka as it marks the day when Lord Buddha visited Kelaniya at the invitation of Naga King Maniakkhika.

Additionally, other important events in Sri Lankan history took place on Vesak Full Moon Poya Day, including the arrival of Prince Vijaya and the commencement of the construction of Ruwanweli Seya by King Dutugemunu.

Vesak Festival Celebrations Organised by the Presidential Secretariat

Festivities around SL

The National Vesak Festival is currently underway in Nuwara Eliya.

Meanwhile, the Presidential Secretariat has also organised a series of events to mark this year’s Vesak festival. 

Under the patronage of the Presidential Secretariat, a Bakthi Ghee recital will be held from 12th to 16th May in the vicinity of the Presidential Secretariat. The concert will feature performances by school children, members of the tri-forces and Civil Security Department personnel, as well as popular vocal artists.

Additionally, the Presidential Secretariat in collaboration with the armed forces has made arrangements to operate rice dansal on 12th and 13th May, and refreshment stalls from 12th to 16th May in the area surrounding the Presidential Secretariat.

Coinciding with the Gangarama Buddha Rashmi Vesak Zone and Buddhaloka Vesak Zone celebrations, numerous programmes have been organised including the illumination of buildings and streets with decorative lighting around the Secretariat premises, along with exhibitions of traditional Vesak lanterns (pahan koodu).

“Unite with determination and diligence to achieve this noble vision”

In his Vesak Day message, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake called on the public to build a prosperous nation rooted in selflessness, equality and social justice, fulfilling the aspirations of the people for a “A Thriving Nation – A Beautiful Life.” 

“Let us unite with determination and diligence to achieve this noble vision,” he said.

He further emphasized that the teachings of the Buddha are not merely religious but a path to inner development, guiding humanity toward moral and intellectual growth.

The President highlighted that Buddhist philosophy offers profound insights into good governance, noting that when a nation’s leader governs with justice and virtue, the people prosper in peace.

The Department of Meteorology says showery conditions are expected to be enhanced in the Southwestern part of the country up to some extent from today (May 12) evening.

Several spells of showers will occur in Western, Sabaragamuwa and North-western provinces and in Galle and Matara districts.

Showers or thundershowers may occur at several places in Central, Uva and Eastern provinces after 1.00 p.m.

Fairly strong winds of about 30-40 kmph can be expected at times over Northern, North-central, North-western and Southern provinces.

The general public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimize damages caused by temporary localized strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.

The Media Division of the Ministry of Energy has dismissed media reports claiming the resignation of Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) Chairman Dr. Tilak Siyambalapitiya, clarifying that he has only taken leave for personal overseas travel.  

A senior ministry official stated that Dr. Siyambalapitiya had formally informed President Anura Kumara Dissanayake about his temporary leave and denied any resignation.  

“There is no truth in the media reports suggesting the resignation of the CEB Chairman,” the official emphasized.  

Dr. Siyambalapitiya was appointed as CEB Chairman on September 26, 2023, following the formation of the NPP-led government. The clarification comes amid ongoing discussions on electricity tariff revisions and financial reforms in the power sector.  

The CEB has recently been under scrutiny over proposed tariff hikes and compliance with IMF-mandated cost-reflective pricing, with speculation rising over leadership changes. 

The ministry’s statement seeks to quell rumors and ensure stability in the institution’s administration.