Sri Lanka High Commission in Canberra Commemorates Vesak with Solemnity and Cultural Splendor
May 29, 2026
The High Commission of Sri Lanka to Australia solemnly celebrated the sacred festival of Vesak, marking the Birth, Enlightenment, and Passing Away (Parinirvana) of the Lord Buddha, on Thursday, 28th May 2026 at the High Commission premises in Canberra.
The event drew a distinguished gathering, including Heads of Mission in Canberra from Thailand and Russia, members of the diplomatic corps from Vietnam, Malaysia Bhutan, China, and Myanmar, Dr. Fuxin Li, the president of the ACT Community Language Schools Association, alongside a large number of the Sri Lankan community residing in Canberra.
Her Excellency Yasoja Gunasekera, High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to Australia, delivered the welcome address, outlining the significance of Vesak; the eternal relevance of the Buddha’s message of peace and loving kindness; the importance of Buddhism in shaping Sri Lanka’s culture and society; Sri Lanka’s contribution to Buddhism; and Sri Lanka’s role in leading the United Nations General Assembly Resolution 54/115 on the International Recognition of the Day of Vesak in 2000.
The religious proceedings were led by Ven. Kotapola Upali Thero and Ven. Mahiyangane Dhammapala from Sri Lanka Buddhist Vihara and Royal Pandith Ven. Katuwana Sugathasoma Thero from Sri Lanka Dhamma Vihara, Canberra, including a short Dhamma sermon and the rhythmic chanting of Pirith, invoking peace, health, and harmony for all global citizens. As a gesture of supreme reverence and merit, the High Commission presented the Atapirikara (The Eight Essential Requisites) to the clergy, followed by the traditional offering of Gilampasa (herbal beverages and tea).
Bringing a melodic dimension to the commemoration, the staff members of the High Commission and their families presented a vibrant session of Bhakthigeetha (devotional songs), filling the chancery with choral music that captured the deep spiritual essence of the festival.
The Chancery building was decorated with colourful Vesak lanterns prepared by the High Commission staff and families and a Digital Thorana (Pandol) was displayed at the High Commission premises depicting the Katthari Jathakaya.
In keeping with the timeless Buddhist tradition of Dana (charity and giving), the evening concluded with the opening of a Dansala. Attendees, including international diplomats, local dignitaries, and the Sri Lankan diaspora in Canberra, came together to share a complimentary spread of traditional Sri Lankan food and refreshments, symbolizing the communal spirit of generosity and togetherness that defines Vesak.
The High Commission of Sri Lanka in Australia
29 May 2026
