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Vesak celebrated in Brussels

The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Brussels celebrated the Day of Vesak in commemoration of the birth, enlightenment, and passing away of Gautama Buddha under the theme "Serenity of the Mind" at the Official Residence on May 6th, 2023, with the participation of the Sri Lankan community in Belgium and Luxembourg.

Most Venerable Gombaddala Damitha Thero, Head of Parama Dhamma Visuddharamaya, Boralasgamuwa, and Venerable Ranwala Wimalarathana Thero, Head of Shri Sumanaramaya of Thulhiriya, and Venerable Wisuddhi Chotipratoom Thero, Chief Incumbent of the Thai Dhammarama Temple in Belgium, conducted the Vesak religious observances, which included the Buddha Vandana, Dhamma Deshana, and by chanting Sethpirith, followed by Sangika Dhana.

Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Belgium Grace Asirwatham explained in her welcome remarks the significance of the thrice blessed Day of Vesak and the relevance of the doctrine of Lord Gautama Buddha to the current world situation, which was inflicted by human suffering, pain, and conflicts. The Ambassador added that the universal teachings of Buddha on compassion, loving kindness, peace, tolerance, non-discrimination, and devotion for humanity were timeless and a gift to humanity. As Sri Lanka embarked on a new transformative journey towards economic recovery, reconciliation, and prosperity, the Ambassador further emphasized that it was high time that all Sri Lankans united for the selfless purpose of serving the country.

The staff of the Embassy presented Bakthi Gee for the third consecutive year, adding a divine feeling to the serene atmosphere created by the religious observances by the venerable monks. The Embassy and Official Residence premises were decorated with Buddhist flags, Vesak lanterns, and lights to celebrate the occasion of Vesak.

Embassy of Sri Lanka

Brussels.

6^th May 2023