Deputy Minister of Defence Joins Third Day of ‘Buddha Rashmi 2025’
National Vesak Zone opening ceremony
May 15, 2025
The opening ceremony for the third day of the 'Buddha Rashmi 2025' National Vesak Zone took place last evening, with the participation of Deputy Minister of Defence Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd.). The event, a joint initiative of the Hunupitiya Gangaramaya Temple, the Presidential Secretariat, and the Prime Minister’s Office, continues to serve as a beacon of spiritual and cultural celebration in the heart of Colombo.
Recognised as the most sacred Buddhist festival, Vesak commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Lord Buddha. The 'Buddha Rashmi 2025' National Vesak Zone aims to foster spiritual revival, cultural appreciation, and harmony among Buddhist devotees.
This year’s Vesak Zone, which commenced on May 13, will run until May 16 across key locations, including the Gangaramaya Temple, the Presidential Secretariat premises, and the Prime Minister’s Office. The festival features an array of traditional attractions such as intricately adorned Vesak lanters and pandols illuminated with vibrant lights, Vesak devotional song performances, and 'Dansals' organized to offer free food and refreshments to devotees visiting the zone.
The third day’s opening was graced by the presence of the Maha Sangha, led by the Chief Incumbent of Gangaramaya Temple, Venerable Kirinde Assaji Thero. Minister of Labour Hon. Anil Jayantha attended as the Chief Guest, along with the Deputy Minister of Vocational Education Hon. Nalin Hewage, Deputy Ministry of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs Hon. Sunil Watagala, Deputy Minister of Justice and National Integration Hon. Mohamed Muneer and the Deputy Minister of Defence Maj. Gen. Jayasekara (Retd),, Members of Parliament, distinguished guests, senior government officials, and military personnel. A large gathering of devotees and visitors from across the island joined the celebrations, marking the significance of this annual event.
The 'Buddha Rashmi 2025' National Vesak Zone continues to embody the essence of Sri Lanka’s Buddhist heritage, offering a space for devotion, cultural expression, and communal togetherness.
