The Government has announced that the State Vesak Festival for 2025 will be held at the Nuwara Eliya International Buddhist Center Temple, with the theme “Bhajetha Miththe Kalyane, Bhajetha Purisuththame” (Let’s associate with noble friends of good qualities). This theme highlights the importance of cultivating virtuous companionship in spiritual life.
Cabinet spokesman and Minister Nalinda Jayatissa confirmed that the period from May 10 to 16, 2025, has officially been declared Vesak Week. The decision was made in consultation with the Most Ven. Mahanayaka Thera and the Old Island Shasanarakshaka Mandalaya, who endorsed the suitability of Nuwara Eliya as the venue for this significant annual celebration.
The festival will be organised with the collaborative efforts of the Ministry of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs; the Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils, and Local Government; and the Department of Buddhist Affairs. The Cabinet has approved the joint proposal submitted by the two relevant ministers to hold the festival in Nuwara Eliya and to implement a series of Buddhist religious programmes during Vesak Week.
This national event is expected to attract devotees from across the country and provide a platform for promoting Buddhist values, religious observances, and community engagement in celebration of the birth, enlightenment, and passing away of the Buddha.
