VESAK OBSERVANCES AT KINGSBURY BUDDHIST VIHARA

Vast number of devotees gathered at the Sri Saddhatissa International Buddhist Centre Kingsbury on Sunday 27 May 2018 to observe Ata Sil ( Eight Precepts ) and follow the full day's of religious programme arranged by Head of the Vihara and the Chief Sangha Nayaka of Great Britain, Most Venerable Aggamahapandita Galayaye Piyadassi Nayaka Thero to celebrate this year's Wesak Day.

The programme included Buddha Vandana, Dhamma Sermons, Dhamma Discussions, Dhana for the Monks, Upasakas and the Upasikas, Meditation sessions, programme of Devotional Songs and a Dansela with delicious Sri Lankan meal provided for every one attended.

Heel Dana was provided for the Maha Sangha and the whole congregation by Kamalika Abeywickrema and friends. Mid day Dana was provided by Vinitha Talpawila, Susantha Mudalige, Shiranthii Perera, their families and friends. Dr. Senevi Athurupana conducted a meditation session.

Vajira and Ganesha Liyanage, their families and friends arranged several special Pujas including a unique Buddha Pujava with 100 specially prepared items, Evening Gilan Passa Pujava, Awsadha Pujava, with 108 different condiments and a Sandun Thel ( Sandalwood oil ) Pahan Pujava with 100 decorated oil lamps.

This was the first time such a special Puja was held in the UK. Venerable Viharagala Kusala Thero delivered a Kavi Bana sermon. SSIBC choir, organised by Anju Dabare and friends presented a devotional song programme, Bhakthi Geetha. A beautiful Vesak Pandal, depicting the story of " Serivanija Jathakaya" was erected in the main hall.

Acting High Commissioner for Sri Lanka H.E. Sugeeshwara Gunaratna, Mr. Nalin Perera from the Sri Lanka Tourism Bureau in London and the newly elected Worshipful Mayor of the London Borough of Harrow, Councillor Kareema Marikar graced the occasion as invited guests.

Wesak day's proceedings concluded with a "DANSALA" organised by Asela, Arawinda and friends.

Photographs by Tissa Madawela and SSIBC - Report from SSIBC