Vesak Themagul, at the Sri Lanka High Commission in Canberra was celebrated from 14th to 18th May 2014 in a colourful manner dressing the High Commission building with a large number of Buddhist flags, lights, lanterns. Decorations were on display till the 5th Ranaviru memorial Pinkama which fell on 18th of May.
The (Petaw Kooduwa) a lantern inclusive of 20 sub-lanterns rooting out of the mother lantern, with changing colour reflections was the principal attraction. It was hung overhead and could be seen from afar. Seven blossoming red lotus flowers, depicting Prince Siddhartha revealing his first words at birth on the last lotus was the other main attraction. Another single lantern represented a blossoming flower. The surrounding fence and the building around were covered with Buddhist flags and illuminated with bulb lines.
The visiting public was treated with a Dansala of tea, coffee and snacks for two days. Many viewers, notably Australians, were keen to know the significance of the occasion. They greatly admired the beauty of the Vesak decorations at the Mission. All decorations were the creations of the High Commission staff.
The High Commission staff also participated in Vesak devotional songs (Bakhthi Gee) at the Canberra Buddhist temple which was highly appreciated by the large gathering.
High Commission of Sri Lanka
Canberra
20th May 2014
