Vesak Day celebrations in Brazil

Coinciding with the International Vesak Day declared by the United Nations, a Vesak Cultural Festival was organised at the Templo Shin Budista Terra Pura of Brasilia on 13 May. The event which was held for the second consecutive time was organised by the Sri Lanka Embassy in association with Asian Embassies based in Brasilia namely, India, Indonesia, Myanmar, Nepal, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Vietnam.

The Festival was commenced with the sounding of the huge temple-gong 10 times by Ven. Sato, Chief incumbent of the Temple and the Ambassadors. Hundreds of lanterns which illuminated the temple and the Buddhist flags brought real Vesak sentiments to the Brazilians. Ven. Sato conducted Buddhist rituals followed by a sermon which was attended by over 1,000 devotees and diplomats based in Brasilia. A special program which included meditation and Yoga sessions was also conducted by Ven. Sato for volunteer attendees.

At the end of religious activities, General Jagath Jayasuriya, Ambassador for Sri Lanka in Brazil and also the Chairman of the Organising Committee of the festival delivered a speech on the significance and the history of Vesak Day celebrations. “We are happy that we could bring Vesak to Brasilia for the second consecutive time. It wouldn’t have been possible to have such a great event without the support of Ven. Sato and the Missions of Asian Countries. I wish to put on record their ever generous support,” said Ambassador Jayasuriya.

“It is indeed a pleasure to be present at this very special occasion of Vesak Day celebrations at the historic Templo Shin Budista Terra Pura. Brazil is indeed a multi-cultural and multi religious country and I congratulate all who organised this beautiful event,” said International Advisor to the Governor of Brasilia Renata Zuquin, who participated as the chief guest on behalf of the Governor.

A variety of food items including typical Asian cuisines and beverages were offered at the end of the festival to all the attendees.