Vesak Poya Day should not be turned into day of musical shows or carnivals - Public Administration Ministry

The Vesak Poya Day (12) should not be turned into a day of musical shows or carnivals but the day should be spent as a full religious day to make practice-based offerings (Pratipatti Pooja) in commemoration of the Sambudu Themagula (the threefold sacred events of Lord Buddha’s life), the Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government said in a circular.

 

The circular has directed the Ministry Secretries, Chief Secretaries of Provincial Council, District Secretaries, Heads of Departments, Heads of Corporations and Statutory Bodies and Divisional Secretaries to create awareness amongst the community of patrons regarding the matter.

 

The circular said Seela Bhavana programme/events should be organised in every Buddhist temple and get Dhamma schools, school students and youth to participate in these programmes/events.

 

The circular also said that all public and private institutions, as well as households, are expected to hoist the Buddhist flag and adorn their premises with environmentally friendly Vesak decorations during the Vesak week, from May 10 to May 16, 2025.

 

All slaughterhouses and meat shops across the island, including meat counters in supermarkets, shall remain closed while all liquor stores, outlets selling alcoholic beverages, and social clubs throughout the country must also be closed on May 12, 13 and 14, 2025.