Vesak is a celebration of the birth, enlightenment, and passing away of Lord Buddha. Uniquely, this important festival takes place on the full moon day in the month of May each year. Moreover, it’s one of Sri Lanka’s most visually stunning and captivating celebrations. As always, Colombo is the epicentre of Vesak celebrations. Furthermore, every year, you’ll see houses and streets decorated with many Vesak lantern types, giving visual pleasure to all, including non-Buddhists.
Vesak lantern types: the most popular Buddhist celebration in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is a melting pot of cultures and has many festivals throughout the year. Likewise, the myriad of festivals in Sri Lanka afford a chance to experience the diverse culture and its rich tapestry. On the other hand, many Vesak lantern types take centre stage during the Vesak celebrations. Additionally, panadol’s become a central attraction to delight all and sundry.
In Sri Lanka, the Sinhala, Tamil New Year, and Kandy Esala Perahera are popular festivals native to the country. In addition, Vesak is the other religious and cultural festival that is unique to Sri Lanka. As a result, it’s recognised as the most famous Buddhist Festival of the year. In retrospect, the Vesak festival was recognized internationally by the UN to appreciate the contribution of Buddhism. It’s heartening to note that Vesak is observed by Buddhists all over the world.
The streets of Colombo: Decorated with many Vesak lantern types
The month of May not only brings with it the thundering South-West monsoon but showcases many Vesak lantern types. Hence, Vesak celebrations continue for about a week. Therefore, it’s the perfect time to see the streets of Colombo come alive. Almost overnight, laid-back and relaxed, Colombo turns into a glamorous and glittery capital with dreamy lights.
You’ll get to see corners of the city dressed in lights, colourful Vesak lantern types, which signify Buddha’s light. Also, you’ll see dansals (free food stalls) right throughout the country.
Celebration of Vesak in Sri Lanka
Vesak is of religious significance for Buddhists all over the world. Particularly in Sri Lanka, it’s what Christmas is to the West. In effect, it’s a festival of togetherness which rejoices the birth and enlightenment of Lord Buddha. Also, Vesak is a time of reflection on his demise.
During Vesak, Buddhist devotees assemble in various temples for the hoisting of the Buddhist flag. Notably, they sing hymns of the holy triple gem: The Buddha, The Dharma (his teachings), and The Sangha (his disciples)
Vesak lantern types
You’ll love to see well-lit Vesak Pandols which attract hundreds of onlookers. Another visually stunning spectacle is colourful Vesak lantern types lit at night. Significantly, people in Sri Lanka refer to these as Vesak Kudu. Buddhists hang them in front of houses and on the streets.
People make these towering Vesak lantern types with bamboo frames and covered in coloured paper. Particularly, the lanterns signify the memory of Buddha who delivered Dhamma’s message.
What do lanterns symbolize in Vesak?
In fact, traditional Vesak lanterns, mostly made at home, have symbolic meanings. The Ata-pattama (an octagon-shaped lantern) symbolises the eightfold path. The Nelum kuduwa (lotus-shaped lantern) is another symbol of the Buddha.