The Consulate General of Sri Lanka erected and displayed a Vesak Pandal at the Schofields Lankarama Buddhist Vihara in Sydney for the temple's Vesak Festival held on 27 May 2018 marking the Birth of Prince Siddhartha, Enlightenment and the Mahaparinibbana of the Lord Buddha.
The Consulate General erected a Vesak Pandal of this nature in Sydney for the second time. The 15 feets pandal depicted the Kalinga Bodhi Jathakaya, which was preached by the Lord Buddha on the importance of planting a Bo Tree to be worshiped in the place of Gauthama Buddha.
At the opening, Consul General Lal Raj Wicrematunge appreciated the assistance extended by all ethnic groups of Sri Lankan origin to make that endeavor a success, which also marked another step toward the coexistence among the Sri Lankan community in Sydney. The pandal was completely made by the Sri Lankan professionals who volunteered for the script, design, voice and music recording and lighting, together with the staff of the Consulate General.
Opening the Pandol, the Chief Incumbent Ven. Pundit Meegahakumbure Dhammagavesi Thero praised the efforts of the Consulate General and the volunteers for the opportunity given to the community to experience a massive Vesak Pandal in Sydney.
Hon. Kevin Conolly, Member of New South Wales Parliament was also present at the Lankarama Buddhist Vihara for the temple Vesak Festival.
The Consul General also spoke at the book launch of Ven. Pundit Meegahakumbure Dhammagavesi Thero which was part of the vesak celebrations.
All staff of the Consulate General participated in singing Bhakthi Gee at the Festival.
