Vesak celebrated at Sri Lanka Consulate in Jeddah

Vesak festival was celebrated at the Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Jeddah on 4 May at the Consulate premises in collaboration with the Sri Lankan expatriate community.

The Vesak program commenced with the observance of ‘Ata Sil’, followed by ‘Dhamma’ sermons, meditation sessions, ‘Ashtapana Gilanpasa pooja’ and Children’s procession organised by the Sri Lankan International School in Jeddah. A ‘Short-Eats Dansala’, a ‘Bath Dansala’ and a ‘Sweet and Soft Drink Dansala’ were also held under the sponsorship of the Sri Lankan expatriate community. The Consulate premises had been attractively decorated, adding glamour to the Vesak festival.

Speaking on the occasion, Consul General Justice A.W.A. Salam emphasised the importance of celebrating Vesak day and reminded that Buddhists all over the world celebrate this day to commemorate the Birth of Prince Siddhartha, Enlightenment of Lord Buddha and his Maha Parinirvana. 

He further pointed out that even the Constitution of Sri Lanka confers a special place to Buddhism under its Chapter II, and that the Republic of Sri Lanka is obliged to give Buddhism the foremost place. He stated that it is the duty of the State to protect and foster the Buddha Sasana, while assuring to everyone the freedom of thought, conscience and religion.

The Consul General highlighted that celebrating such an event on a grand scale in the city of Jeddah, is a great achievement.  Vesak celebrations were concluded with ‘Bakthi Gee’ sung by the ‘Pearl Shine Musical Band’.