The Presidential Secretariat has taken the lead in organising a series of events to mark the Vesak festival this year, aiming to bring together communities in celebration of the life and teachings of the Buddha. From May 12 to 16, a Bhakti Gee recital will be held in the vicinity of the Presidential Secretariat, featuring performances by schoolchildren, members of the Tri-Forces and Civil Security Department, as well as well-known vocalists. This initiative is expected to attract large crowds and showcase a blend of tradition and artistic expression.
In addition to the musical performances, the Secretariat, in collaboration with the Armed Forces, has arranged for a rice dansal to operate on May 12 and 13, while refreshment stalls will serve the public from May 12 to 16. The area surrounding the Presidential Secretariat will be lit up with colourful decorations and Vesak lanterns, forming part of the broader Gangarama Buddha Rashmi Vesak Zone and Buddhaloka Vesak Zone celebrations. The public is warmly invited to partake in the festivities and experience the spiritual ambiance of Vesak in the heart of the capital.
Meanwhile, a Vesak Pinkama is being held at Dakshinaramaya in Hokandara from May 4 to 14. Organised by the Sri Sambuddha Jayanthi Daham Pasala staff, students, and parents, along with members of the Vihara Dayaka Sabha, Dakshinarama Pirivena, and the Dakshinarama Aesthetic Committee, the event is conducted under the guidance of Ven. Dr. Maduruoya Dhammissara Nayaka Thera. Highlights of the Pinkama include an Ordination Ceremony, Buddha Pooja, Bodhi Pooja, Dhamma sermons and discussions, a Bhakti Gee recital, Sil observance campaigns, distribution of dry rations to the needy, and the display of a large Vesak lantern.
Another notable programme this Vesak season is the 25th annual Bodu Sadeha Gee, a travelling devotional music event initiated by the Panadura Media Cultural Foundation. Led by historian and journalist Nishantha Chaminda Peiris, this unique programme has brought newly composed Buddhist devotional songs to the public since 2001. Unlike other musical performances, Bodu Sadeha Gee features original compositions and melodies that focus on Dhamma communication rather than popular appeal. This year’s event will take place on May 13 and 14, from 4:00 pm to 11:00 pm, covering Panadura, Wadduwa, Bandaragama, and Moratuwa. The programme is known for its colourful, decorated truck that travels from village to village, bringing a deeply spiritual and communal atmosphere wherever it goes.
As Sri Lanka prepares to celebrate Vesak—the most sacred time in the Buddhist calendar—these programmes reflect a nationwide effort to honour the birth, enlightenment, and passing away of the Buddha with reverence, generosity, and cultural pride.
