Vesak celebrations in Berlin

A Vesak celebration and an almsgiving was held at the Buddhist temple in Berlin. It was organised by Tissa Weeraratna, vice-president of the Dharmaduta Society, Colombo and its members and the Sri Lanka embassy in Berlin.

Ven. Santharakkhita Thero of the Buddhist temple in Berlin and Ven Pallegama Vijitha Thera of the Sri Lanka Buddhist Pilgrims Rest took part in the ceremony. Members of the Sri Lankan community living in Berlin, ambassador for Sri Lanka in Germany, Sarath Kongahage, embassy staff and Germans of Buddhist faith participated in the celebration.

Ven. Santharakkhita Thero, Ven Pallegama Vijitha Thera of the Sri Lanka Buddhist Pilgrims Rest, New Delhi, and Tissa Weeraratna spoke of the significance of Vesak which commemorates the birth, enlightenment and parinirvana of the Buddha. Ambassador Sarath Kongahage said that Buddhism was a religion of humanity, kindness, and equality. It strived to promote peace and harmony among people and historically he said Buddhism had the best records of being a truly peaceful religion.

Due to this Buddhism was growing apace in many countries and enticing many followers, he said.

The embassy premises was decorated with Buddhist flags,illuminations and lanterns. The ambassador and embassy staff performed religious observances at the 'Buddhu Madura' situated in the embassy premises.