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.
