Bauddhaloka Vesak Zone on grand scale

Ananda Kannangara

COLOMBO: At least 800 Vesak lanterns will be displayed at the annual “Bauddhaloka Vesak Zone” programme, conducted by the All Ceylon Buddhist Congress on a grand scale at Bauddhaloka Mawatha on May 01, 02, 03 and 04.

Prime Minister Ratnasiri Wickramanayake will be the chief guest on the first day of the programme which will commence at 7.00 p.m. The Vesak Zone will commence from the Jawatta roundabout to the end of the Bauddhaloka roundabout (Kanatta Junction).

At a media briefing, `Vesak Zone’ organiser Ranil Ratnayaka said nearly 800 lanterns will be displayed at 75 stalls erected on the either side of the Bauddhaloka Mawatha and the entire area will be decorated with Buddhist flags, illuminations and pandals during the four days.

He said like last time a large number of people including schoolchildren are expected in Colombo from distant areas to witness the four-day programme and many organisations have agreed to hold dansalas for them.

In addition, the Archaeological Department will organise an archaeological exhibition for the public. The winners of the Vesak lantern competition will be awarded with handsome cash prizes ranging from Rs. one lakh, while the winner of the best Vesak lantern will be offered a tour to `Buddhagaya’.