A RELIGIOUS FESTIVAL.

  

                   A RELIGIOUS FESTIVAL.


    

               There are several religious festivals in Sri Lanka. Among them Wesak is regarded as the most important religious festival. It is held in the month of may every year. It marks three important events in the life of Lord Buddha. They are the Birth, the Enlightenment and the passing away of Lord Buddha.

                 


                  Most of the people observe "Sil" on this day. They engage in various religious activities too. They listen to sermons and other religious talks. All these acts purify their thoughts. Houses are decorated with Wesak  lanterns and other decorations. They are also illuminated with coloured bulbs. 

                 


               Thousands of devotees go on pilgrimages to important religious places. Pandals are erected at public place. These pandals depict illustrations from the "birth stories" of Lord Buddha. They are illuminated with thousands of coloured bulbs. 

            Wesak is a busy day for children. They make Wesak lanterns in various shapes. There are Wesak lantern competitions too. Prizes are also offered to best creations. Dansals are organised by the youth. They serve the tired devotees with refreshments. 



                   In the evening all families go to village temple. They offer flowers and worship Lord Buddha. They also burn joss sticks and light oil lamps. Their minds are filled with purified thoughts. Herds of cattle that are taken to slaughter houses are freed by certain Buddhist organisations. It is a great meritorious deed. Liquor shops are closed on this day. 

                Newspapers carry special supplements including articles on the importance of the wesak day. Sermons and other religious talks are telecast through all the channels  of the T.V. people realise the value of leading a religious life on this day. They determine to give up all misdeeds done by them. They realise the value of self- help too. May the people of different races and religions forget their differences and live happily in peace and harmony on this three - blessed Wesak day !

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