12/05/2025
Vesak Festival in Sri Lanka 🪷 ☸️
As Vesak approaches, Sri Sankapala Rajamaha Viharaya – Pallebedda, a historic temple surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery, is beautifully preparing for the celebration. The temple grounds are alive with vibrant decorations and the spirit of community, as locals come together to honor this sacred occasion.
Vesak, also known as Buddha Purnima, commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and passing away (Parinirvana) of Lord Buddha – all three events believed to have occurred on the full moon day of Vesak. It’s a deeply spiritual time for Buddhists, marked by prayers, meditation, offerings, and acts of kindness.
In Sri Lanka, Vesak is not just a religious event — it’s a cultural celebration that brings the whole country together. The streets are beautifully decorated with lanterns (Vesak kuudu), temples are illuminated, and people create a peaceful atmosphere of giving and reflection.
One of the most iconic parts of Vesak is the Vesak Pandal (or Thorana) – a large, brightly lit display that tells stories from the Jataka tales, which are moral stories from the previous lives of the Buddha. These pandals are hand-crafted by local artists and volunteers, using intricate lights and paintings, and are a beautiful way of sharing wisdom and values through art and storytelling.
The spirit of Vesak is all about peace, mindfulness, and compassion — values that are more meaningful than ever today.
May this Vesak bring peace, light, and compassion to all beings. 🙏
