Vesak Celebration in Colombo, Sri Lanka 2017

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Vesak is celebrated as a religious and a cultural festival in Sri Lanka on the full moon of the lunar month of Vesak (usually in the Gregorian month of May). Celebrations include religious and alms-giving activities. Electrically-lit pandals called thoranas are erected in locations mainly in Colombo, Kandy, Galle and elsewhere, most sponsored by donors, religious societies and welfare groups. Each pandal illustrates a story from the Jataka tales.

In addition, colourful lanterns called Vesak kuudu are hung along streets and in front of homes. They signify the light of the Buddha, Dharma and the Sangha. Food stalls set up by Buddhist devotees called dansälas provide free food and drinks to passersby. Groups of people from community organisations, businesses and government departments sing bhakti gee (Buddhist devotional songs). Colombo experiences a massive influx of people from all parts of the country during this week.

Below are the some of picture taken during Vesak celebration in Colombo May 2017. Thank you Mr. Vivek for the colourful photos.

Diyawanna Oya – Ethul kotte

Diyawanna Oya is one of the lakes within Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte, Sri Lanka. Following are the Vesak Celebration at Diyawanna Oya – Ethul kotte.

Araliyagaha Mandiraya (Temple Trees)

Temple Trees, is the official residence of the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka. It is located in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Following are the Vesak decoration at Temple trees.