The Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Milan, Italy with the assistance of the Sri Lankan community organized a “Sambuddha Puja” and special “Pirith” chanting ceremony on 20th May 2016, as part of its Vesak celebrations and also to invoke blessings on the government, and the victims of recent flood and landslide calamity in the country.

The Consulate premises were colourfully adorned with Vesak lanterns, Buddhists flags and decorations.

Chief Incumbent of Thalagala Vipassana Meditation Centre and Olaboduwe Sri Jayawardenarama, Ven. Olaboduwe Hemaloka Thero and Ven. Wattogala Dhammika Thero, Chief Incumbent of Brescia Buddhist Viharaya, in their Anusasanas outlined the meaning of the Triple festival of Vesak commemorating the Birth, Enlightenment and Parinirvana of the Buddha and importance of conducting a Pirith Chanting and its merits.

Ven. Mahagama Wipulasiri Thero, Chief Priest of International Buddhist Centre, Milan and Chief Sanganakake of Italy during his “Punyanumodanawa” commended the services of Consul General Pradeepa Saram and the staff of the Consulate for their active engagement in many community events throughout Northern Italy.

Over twelve Venerable Theros also participated at the “Pirith” Chanting at the Consulate premises including from Milan Lankarama Viharaya, Milan Dharmanikethanaya, Brescia Buddhist Temple, Verona Maha Viharaya and Milan Mahamevna Asapuwa.

The commemoration of Vesak at the Consulate was also attended by a large number of Sri Lankan community members.

Consulate General of Sri Lanka Milan, Italy