Government Tightens Guidelines for Vesak Season Events, Bans Inappropriate Activities

The government has introduced a new circular aimed at regulating all programmes organised for the upcoming Vesak season, including Vesak zones and Dansals, with authorities moving to prohibit activities deemed inappropriate for the religious festival.

Speaking at a media briefing at the Department of Government Information, Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs Hiniduma Sunil Senevi said that events such as head-banging programmes and haunted houses will not be allowed during Vesak celebrations.

He further announced that organisers of Dansals have been instructed to use yellow flags instead of Buddhist flags, as part of the new regulatory framework.

According to the Minister, the programme will be implemented jointly by the All Ceylon Shasanarakshaka Bala Mandalaya and relevant state institutions, with special guidelines issued covering Dansals, Vesak decorations, road safety, and public safety.

Authorities will also take steps to prevent inappropriate decorations and displays, while strengthening coordination with security forces throughout the Vesak period.

The State Vesak Festival will be held under the theme “Let’s rally together for the common good”, focusing on social responsibility through Amisa and Prathipatti Pooja programmes, he said.

The main festival is scheduled to commence on May 27 at the Midellawala Purana Viharaya, with the participation of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

A series of islandwide programmes will then continue across the Matara District for one week until June 2.

Chief Secretary of the All Ceylon Shasanarakshaka Bala Mandalaya, Venerable Mugunuwela Anuruddha, said several religious and community development initiatives will also be carried out alongside this year’s Vesak celebrations, including the development of temples and monasteries in the Matara District.

He also noted that a delegation from Vietnam is expected to take part in this year’s Vesak festivities, adding an international dimension to the religious observances.