Published on - 5/26/2005
The unprecedented scale of reverence and enthusiasm of the masses in Jaffna peninsula towards commemoration of Vesak (Thrice blessed day) to coincide with Buddha's Birth, Enlightenment, and Parinibbana (passing- away) came to light very vividly early this week (23-24 May) when members of the Armed Forces and the Police jointly threw up a spectacular display of Vesak decorations to match with “Amisa†principles of the Buddhists worldwide.
This year's Vesak commemoration in Jaffna, designed under the theme “Yapa Patunai, Daham Amavai †(Advent of Dhamma & Jaffna peninsula), in its quest for religious harmony, co-existence and amity, marked a milestone with a record-breaking 110 Vesak lanterns and illuminations on display at Duraiappa Stadium and elsewhere at public places close to 51,52,53 and 55 Divisions, coupled with a number of alms and refreshments serving stalls (Dan Sel), scattered almost in every corner of the peninsula.
Elaborately planned and very well coordinated chain of Vesak commemorative features, needless to say, on the instructions of the Commander of the Army Lt Gen Shantha Kottegoda and also under able guidance of the Commander, Security Forces Headquarters Jaffna Major General Sunil Tennakoon got under way as dusk fell on Monday (23) with the whole-hearted support the troops received from the Navy, Air Force and the Police in the peninsula.
In view of the importance of this great Buddhist phenomenon that unified the whole world on peace, piety and fervour after opening up new vistas of philosophy and ways of life for all beings on earth, this year's Vesak in Jaffna, deviating from limited scopes, was marked in good spirits with excellent public relations now being enjoyed between Security Forces and civilians. It was really a show of light, colourfulness and collective work that taught tenets of brotherhood, mutual respect and confidence, the Jaffna Press had stated.
An estimated crowd of 25,000-30,000 including several thousands of curious school children and kids thronged into the stadium, the very first day (23) itself to witness, hitherto unheard devotional song choirs of the armed forces and enjoy the sight of 33 colorful, creatively-designed and well illuminated Vesak lanterns, meant to generate offering of light (Aloka Pooja) to the Enlightened one in his honour. More surprisingly, the second day became more hectic and saw a dramatic increase in the number of sightseers defying alleged restrictions, said to have been placed on the public by some interested parties.
This moonlit Vesak celebration in Jaffna, essentially entwined with religious and culturally- rich heritage and ethos of the nation reminded us of the historical saga at Nagadeepa, a few thousands of years ago. The place was consecrated by the arrival of Buddha in order to resolve a dispute that emerged between two clans at that point of time. This very historical fact relates very much better to sustenance of ethnic harmony in to-day's context at a time when armed struggles are launched for conquer of earth. Nagadeepa temple and Kandarodai temple ruins were among other centers of attraction during those festive days as troops served refreshments, rice and curry to sightseers.
Most picturesque artworks in terms of their creativity and meaningfulness carried cash prizes worth over Rs. 65,000/-. The 5th Gajaba Regiment (Volunteer) carried away the first prize (Rs. 12,500/-) while Securiry Forces Headquarters Jaffna and 14th Sri Lanka Sinha Regiment won second and third slots respectively. Similarly Sri Lanka Electric & Mechanical Engineers, Sri Lanka Military Police, 2nd (Volunteer) Vijayabahu Infantry Regiment, 515 Brigade, 5th Field Engineers Regiment, 513 Brigade and 7th Gajaba Regiment also received accolades for their outstanding display of colorful lanterns and creative hardwork.
Thousands of Tamil civilians en masse, most of who are either Hindus or Christians, irrespective of their denominations braved to enjoy the myriad of Vesak events that were staged in the heart of Jaffna and elsewhere on the grandest scale ever. They moved about freely and partook of many varieties of foods and drinks that were served free by troops at different locations as a symbolic gesture of Buddhist ethos. 32 lanterns from 53 Division, 24 lanterns from 55 Division and 18 lanterns from 2 Division that were erected added colour and dignity to the occasion. Jaffna city and suburbs teemed with hundreds of sightseers on both days, which could also be interpreted as a token of solidarity and understanding those Tamils have for other religions
