2006-05-17

Vesak celebrations in Toronto, Canada

TORONTO: Sri Lankans in Toronto, Canada celebrated Vesak to be in line with 2550th Sri Sambuddha Jayanthi celebrations in Sri Lanka.

The celebrations started at Consulate General of Sri Lanka, Toronto, Canada, on Friday the 12th May with the patronage of C. S. Poolakasingham, Consul General of Sri Lanka.

In his brief message, he read His Excellency Mahinda Rajapaksa's Vesak message. A two days Sil programme for adults and children, Bhakthi Gee programme and Dansala followed this religious ceremony.

These events were organised under the guidance of Most Ven. Ahangama Rathanasiri Thera, the chief incumbent of Toronto Maha Vihara. Ven. Dr. Kahapola Sugatharathana Thera, the chief incumbent of Rankoth Vihara, Panadura, Sri Lanka attended to enrich this occasion on a special invitation. Bhakthi Gee was organised by Ruksevena Cultural Association of Canada with the assistance of Latha Dissanayake and Harsha Bulathsinghala and was performed by students of Toronto Maha Vihara Dhamma school.

Sri Lankan cuisine for the Dansala was provided by residents of Toronto and suburbs. More than five hundred devotees participated in this great occasion.