Amid rising concerns from several groups, including members of the Buddhist clergy, the government has reiterated that this year’s Vesak Poya Day will be observed on May 30, following formal requests made by leading monastic authorities.
The Ministry of Buddhist Affairs stated that the decision was based on a written request submitted to the President on December 20, 2025, by the Mahanayake Theras of the three main Buddhist chapters. According to the Ministry, the Theras had emphasized that the auspicious “Visa Nekatha” must coincide with the day of Vesak, prompting the proposed date adjustment.
The matter was subsequently discussed at the All-Island Buddha Sasana Council on January 1, 2026, where it was reaffirmed that Vesak Poya should fall on May 30. The Council also recommended that Vesak Week be observed from May 27 to June 2.
Further formalisation came through a joint Cabinet paper presented on March 16, 2026, by the Ministry of Buddhist Affairs and the Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government. The proposal received Cabinet approval on March 30, 2026, confirming the revised date.
Despite the official stance, criticism has emerged. The Deputy Chief Prelate and Chief Secretary of the Kotte Sri Kalyāni Sāmagridharma Mahāsaṇghasabhā, Kotapitiye Rahula Anunāyaka Thera, recently alleged that the change was influenced by political motives.
Adding to the debate, former President Ranil Wickremesinghe argued that Vesak Poya should fall on May 1, citing alignment with international recognition.
May 1 has been declared as the International Day of Vesak by the United Nations, further fuelling discussion over the appropriate date for the sacred Buddhist festival.
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