The High Commission of Sri Lanka in Singapore marked Vesak 2026 with religious observances, including an alms-giving and Dhamma sermon at the Sri Lankaramaya Buddhist Temple, bringing together members of the Sri Lankan community and devotees.
Singapore, 16 May 2026 – The High Commission of Sri Lanka in Singapore commemorated Vesak 2026 with a series of religious activities at the Sri Lankaramaya Buddhist Temple on Saturday, 16 May 2026.
The observance began with the offering of Dahawal Dana (midday alms) to the resident monks of Sri Lankaramaya Viharaya. The religious programme continued in the evening with a Dhamma sermon attended by members of the Sri Lankan expatriate community, representatives of the Singapore Sinhala Buddhist Association, High Commission officials, and devotees.
The Dhamma sermon was delivered by Ven. D. Gnanarathana Thero, a resident monk of the Sri Lankaramaya Buddhist Temple, under the spiritual guidance of Ven. K. Rathanananda Nayaka Thero, Chief Incumbent of the temple.
During the sermon, Ven. Gnanarathana Thero reflected on the core teachings of Buddhism, including the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path, emphasizing the importance of applying these principles in daily life. The sermon encouraged devotees to cultivate wisdom, compassion, and ethical conduct in accordance with Buddhist teachings.
At the conclusion of the religious observance, blessings were invoked for the Government and people of Sri Lanka, the High Commissioner and staff of the High Commission, as well as all participants present at the event.
The occasion also honoured the memory of the late Hon. Lakshman Kadirgamar, former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Sri Lanka, whose efforts were instrumental in securing international recognition of Vesak as a day of observance by the United Nations.
As part of Vesak week celebrations, the premises of the High Commission were decorated with Buddhist flags, colourful Vesak lanterns, and traditional festive adornments, creating a vibrant and spiritually uplifting atmosphere for visitors and worshippers.
The commemorative event highlighted the enduring significance of Vesak for Sri Lankans around the world and served as an opportunity for the community in Singapore to come together in reflection, prayer, and fellowship. Following the sermon, attendees were served light refreshments.
The annual observance reaffirmed the High Commission’s commitment to preserving Sri Lanka’s rich Buddhist heritage while strengthening cultural and spiritual bonds among Sri Lankans living in Singapore.
Source: The High Commission of Sri Lanka in Singapore
