Speaking during a special discussion held at the Presidential Secretariat yesterday, the Secretary to the President said the cooperation of the Tri-Forces, Police, voluntary organisations and all relevant stakeholders would be essential for the successful organisation of the State Vesak Festival.
The festival is scheduled to be held from May 27 to June 1 in Matara and Thihagoda under the theme “Abhiththaretha Kalyane.”
Extensive discussions were held regarding organisational arrangements, including obtaining the support of Divisional Secretariats and voluntary organisations for festival activities.
The event will include several religious and cultural programmes, Vesak pandals, lantern competitions and devotional music performances.
Officials said competitions would be conducted under open, school and state sector categories, with winners selected by a distinguished panel of judges based on creativity and quality.
Members of the Maha Sangha of the Matara District Sasanarakshak Balamandalaya, Deputy Minister of Power Arkam Ilyas, Media Adviser to the President Chandana Sooriyabandara, Commissioner General of Buddhist Affairs R.M.G. Senarathna, district officials, business representatives and sponsors also attended the discussion.
