Sri Lankans Celebrated Vesak in May – The Annual “Festival of Lights”

An important event in the Buddhist calendar for Sri Lankans, Vesak was observed this month throughout the island. The main Vesak full moon Poya Day fell on 18th May 2019 and was marked by religious observances at various Buddhist temples. This period is a time when devotees remember the birth, enlightenment and “parinirvana” of Lord Buddha. They also look to earn merit by hosting “dansals” which are usually roadside stalls that offer free food or drinks to passersby.

Vesak is also known as the “Festival of Lights” since a part of its traditions involves hanging up lanterns and lighting oil lamps. As is the practice, lantern making competitions were also held at special areas designated as “Vesak Kalapayas”. Located within easy reach of The Blue Water Hotel and Spa and other such well placed Sri Lanka beach resorts, the commercial capital Colombo, offered some of the best places to see such creations. Also on display were large structures called “pandols” which had depictions of stories from Lord Buddha’s life.