Features
Vesak under lockdown; A welcome change?
BY Dr. Sarath Gamini De Silva
Having listened to an erudite monk in a YouTube interview lamenting the decline of the Vesak celebrations, I thought of having a relook at the issue. His main contention was that these celebrations, though with greater bias to amisa pooja, is an essential part of our cultural heritage which should be preserved at any cost. It was recalled that Vesak was the main national celebration from the time of Sinhala kings. The monk surmised that this religious festival is being downgraded by governments or other non Buddhist influences. He expressed fears that apart from the Dalada Perahera in Kandy, all other Buddhist festivals will be of little value soon.
It was further stressed by the monk that making Vesak lanterns at home, constructing pandals and organising dansals actually embraced core values preached by Buddha. There was unity in the family while making lanterns at home. How lanterns made with much effort perish with a short spell of rain is supposed to demonstrate the impermanence of all matter. The prominence given to artists and artisans in constructing pandals and other decorations and the sense of giving practiced in dansals no doubt are beneficial aspects of the Vesak celebrations as we have known it. All these were prominent by their absence during periods of restricted activities as we are seeing now.
However, a fresh look at all these is warranted, in the background of what has been happening over many years now. With the globalization of all activity, there is intense commercialization of almost all aspects of human life. With their increasing change over to urban life, most of the day is being spent for earning a living. Children have no time to spare from busy school schedules. Thus there is little space to engage in tasks like making lanterns. It has become more convenient to buy the ready-made lanterns or more decorative imported ones. The printed messages, even inappropriate ones on these lanterns, are not of concern to anyone. Lanterns are covered with polythene protecting them from rain, but eventually adding to environmental pollution. Erecting pandals used to be an activity lasting weeks for the village youth. Various pictures painted in vivid colours depicting Jataka stories were expressing the artistic talents of those involved. Now of course there are ready made pandals owned by businessmen which can be leased out for a considerable amount of money and are assembled at short notice. Same pandal could be seen at different towns in successive years. Electrical illuminations, the most attractive part in a pandal, are also a collection of readily assembled pieces. Of late, decoration of streets with Vesak lanterns has been assigned to armed forces with their emblems prominently displayed on each lamp.
As for dansals, they used to be a collective effort with contributions from townsfolk so that all got a chance to take part in the meritorious activity. Now it so happens that a few wealthy individuals or business establishments fund them. With prominently displayed banners they are a form of commercial advertisement for those contributing. It has also become high fun for youngsters to wave flags and stop vehicles to offer ice cream or soft drinks to occupants. They appear to be blissfully ignorant of the whole concept of giving as preached by the Buddha, though some may argue that giving in any form is to be encouraged.
The “adulteration” of Vesak celebrations is the culmination of various undesirable trends in the name of Buddhism throughout the years. Much prominence is given to ritualistic amisa pooja so that following the practical path for emancipation (prathipaththi pooja) has taken backstage. The ritual aspects of the religion are taking preference over the philosophy, though there appears to be greater awareness of the fundamentals of the dhamma among laymen, mainly the older generation. Nowadays, there may be more people observing sil or engaging in meditation at least on Poya days. It is not an easy task to keep youngsters away from so many distractions in the globalised, commercialized world. That is why it is all the more important to see that they are given at least a basic understanding of the universal truth preached by the enlightened one.
Poojas with hundreds of thousands of flowers and thousands of oil lamps covering the precincts of holy sites and wrapping hundreds of meters of cloth round the dagabas are commonplace now. Imagine hundreds of atapirikaras kept round large dagabas or lorry loads of fruit laid on the ground as offerings! These supposedly meritorious activities that cost large amounts of money can enlighten the thoughts in the devotees temporarily, catering to their blind faith. But they are unlikely to contribute much to the path of decent living, emancipation or enlightenment as preached by the Buddha. These rituals are organized by monks, some of them considered “specialists” in the respective activities. These monks should ideally impress upon the ignorant devotees the need for practicing what Dhamma teaches rather than be content with such extravagant rituals.
Never ending construction of all kinds of buildings in temples is a common sight now. A few resemble permanent building sites rather than places of worship. Many Buddhist monks are surrounded and patronized by lay people who are ever ready to dole out large amounts of funds (probably earned without much effort) for these non essential activities. There are some monks who induce even not so well to do devotees to part with funds they can ill afford. Such lavish expenditure is undertaken in a country with many temples in remote areas where the resident monks are not guaranteed even the next meal. Poverty, malnutrition and homelessness are rampant everywhere. Instead of spending on new buildings for temples already amply endowed, poverty alleviation funds for the upliftment of the suffering masses should be established. Such acts would be more in keeping with the teachings of the enlightened one.
Vesak on a subdued scale during the pandemic could be a blessing in disguise. It is a time for reflection. The essential practices like observing sil, engaging in meditation, listening to dhamma sermons, etc., would have been followed in full by the laymen at home with all the services provided by the electronic media. However it was a sad spectacle to see the temples being deserted. They are the centres that are essential for the sustenance of the sasana. There is no doubt people in their masses will return when the situation eases. Vesak decorations on a small scale were limited to residences and the immediate surroundings of the temples. The money spent on them would have been a tiny fraction of what used to be.
To return to the erudite monk lamenting on the demise of Vesak celebrations, let me reassure him that there is a silver lining in every dark cloud. Nature has shown what Buddhists should practice. It is the noble duty of learned monks to show them the right path.
Sri Lanka needs to take full stock of its current economic situation and use to the maximum the potential in its GSP+ facility for export sector growth. In the process, it should ensure that it cooperates fully with the European Union. The urgency of undertaking these responsibilities is underscored by the issues growing out of the recent US decision to sweepingly hike tariffs on its imports, though differentially.
These were principal ‘takes’ for participants in the Pathfinder Foundation’s Ambassadors’ Roundtable forum held on April 8th at the Colombo Club of the Taj Samudra. The main presenter at the event was Ms. Carmen Moreno Raymundo, Ambassador of the European Union to Sri Lanka and the Maldives. The forum was chaired by Ambassador Bernard Goonetilleke, Chairman, Pathfinder Foundation. The event brought together a cross-section of the local public, including the media.
Ms. Moreno drew attention to the fact Sri Lanka is at present severely under utilizing its GSP+ facility, which is the main means for Sri Lanka to enter the very vast EU market of 450 million people. In fact the EU has been Sri Lanka’s biggest trading partner. In 2023, for instance, total trade between the partners stood at Euros 3.84 billion. There is no greater market but the EU region for Sri Lanka.
‘However, only Sri Lanka’s apparel sector has seen considerable growth over the years. It is the only export sector in Sri Lanka which could be said to be fully developed. However, wider ranging export growth is possible provided Sri Lanka exploits to the fullest the opportunities presented by GSP+.’
Moreno added, among other things: ‘Sri Lanka is one among only eight countries that have been granted the EU’s GSP+ facility. The wide-ranging export possibilities opened by the facility are waiting to be utilized. In the process, the country needs to participate in world trade in a dynamic way. It cannot opt for a closed economy. As long as economic vibrancy remains unachieved, Sri Lanka cannot enter into world trading arrangements from a strong position. Among other things, Sri Lanka must access the tools that will enable it to spot and make full use of export opportunities.
‘Sri Lanka must facilitate the private sector in a major way and make it possible for foreign investors to enter the local economy with no hassle and compete for local business opportunities unfettered. At present, Lanka lacks the relevant legal framework to make all this happen satisfactorily.
‘Sri Lanka cannot opt for what could be seen as opaque arrangements with bilateral economic partners. Transparency must be made to prevail in its dealings with investors and other relevant quarters. It’s the public good that must be ensured. The EU would like to see the local economy further opening up for foreign investment.
‘However, it is important that Sri Lanka cooperates with the EU in the latter’s efforts to bring about beneficial outcomes for Sri Lankans. Cooperation could be ensured by Sri Lanka fully abiding by the EU conditions that are attendant on the granting of GSP+. There are, for example, a number of commitments and international conventions that Sri Lanka signed up to and had promised to implement on its receipt of GSP+ which have hitherto not been complied with. Some of these relate to human rights and labour regulations.
‘Successive governments have pledged to implement these conventions but thus far nothing has happened by way of compliance. GSP+ must be seen as an opportunity and not a threat and by complying with EU conditions the best fruits could be reaped from GSP+. It is relevant to remember that GSP+ was granted to Sri Lanka in 2005. It was suspended five years later and restored in 2017.
‘The importance of compliance with EU conditions is greatly enhanced at present in view of the fact that Sri Lanka is currently being monitored by the EU with regard to compliance ahead of extending GSP+ next year. A report on Sri Lanka is due next year wherein the country’s performance with regard to cooperating with the EU would be assessed. The continuation of the facility depends on the degree of cooperation.
‘A few statistics would bear out the importance of Sri Lanka’s partnership with the EU. For example, under the facility Sri Lanka benefits from duty free access in over 66% of EU tariff lines. The highest number of tourist arrivals in Sri Lanka in 2023 was from the EU’s 27 member states. Likewise, the EU’s 27 member states rank second in the origin of inflows of foreign exchange to Sri Lanka; with Italy, France and Germany figuring as the main countries of origin. Eighty five percent of Sri Lanka’s exports to the EU market benefits from GSP+. Thus, the stakes for the country are high.’
Meanwhile, President, In-house Counsel & Legal Advisor, The European Chamber of Commerce of Sri Lanka, John Wilson said: ‘GSP+ should be seen as not only an opportunity but also as a necessity by Sri Lanka in the current international economic climate. ‘Implementation of local laws is what is needed. Considering the pressures growing out of the US imposed new tariff regime, a good dialogue with the EU is needed.
‘Sri Lanka’s level of business readiness must be upped. Among the imperatives are: An electronic procurement process, Customs reforms, a ‘National Single Window’, stepped-up access to land by investors, for example, a clear policy framework on PPPs and reform of the work permits system.’
It ought to be plain to see from the foregoing that Sri Lanka cannot afford to lose the GSP+ facility if it is stepped-up economic growth that is aimed at. It would be in Sri Lanka’s best interests to remain linked with the EU, considering the aggravated material hardships that could come in the wake of the imposition of the US’ new tariff regime. Sri Lanka would need to remain in a dialogue process with the EU, voice its reservations on matters growing out of GSP+, if any, iron out differences and ensure that its national interest is secured.
Chit-Chat
Chiara Tissera
Mrs. Queen of the World Sri Lanka 2024, Chiara Tissera, leaves for the finals, in the USA, next month
I had a very interesting chat with her and this is how it all went:
1. How would you describe yourself?
I am a sensitive and passionate individual who deeply cares about the things that matter most to me. I approach life with a heart full of enthusiasm and a desire to make meaningful connections.
2. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
Actually, I wouldn’t change a thing about myself because the person I am today, both inside and out, is the result of everything I’ve experienced. Every part of me has shaped who I am, so I embrace both my strengths and imperfections as they make me uniquely me.
3. If you could change one thing about your family, what would it be?
If there’s one thing I could change about my family, it would be having my father back with us. Losing him six years ago left a void that can never be filled, but his memory continues to guide and inspire us every day.
4. School?
I went to St. Jude’s College, Kurana, and I’m really proud to say that the lessons I gained during my time there have shaped who I am today. My school and teachers instilled in me values of hard work, perseverance and the importance of community, and I carry those lessons with me every day. I was a senior prefect and was selected the Deputy Head Prefect of our college during my tenure.
5. Happiest moment?
The happiest moment of my life so far has been winning the Mrs. Sri Lanka 2024 for Queen of the World. It was a dream come true and a truly unforgettable experience, one that fills me with pride and gratitude every time I reflect on it.
6. What is your idea of perfect happiness?
Happiness is a deeply personal and multifaceted feeling that often comes from a sense of contentment, fulfillment and well-being. For me, perfect happiness is in moments of joy, peace and accomplishments … and also being surrounded by my loved ones.
7. Are you religious?
Yes, I’m a very religious person. And I’m a firm believer in God. My faith guides me through life, providing strength, dedication and a sense of peace in every situation. I live by the quote, ‘Do your best, and God will do the rest.’
8. Are you superstitious?
I’m not superstitious. I believe in making my own decisions and relying on logic and faith rather than following superstitions.
9. Your ideal guy?
My ideal guy is my husband. He is compassionate, understanding and is always there to support me, no matter what. He’s my rock and my best friend – truly everything I could ever want in a partner.
10. Which living person do you most admire?
The living person I admire the most is definitely my mummy. Her strength, love and unwavering support has shaped me into who I am today. She is my role model and she inspires me every day with her wisdom and kindness.
11. Your most treasured possession?
My most treasured possession is my family. They are the heart of my life, providing me with love, support and strength. Their presence is my greatest blessing.
12. If you were marooned on a desert island, who would you like as your companion?
I would like to have my spouse as my companion. Together, we could make the best of the situation, supporting each other, sharing moments of laughter and finding creative ways to survive and thrive.
13. Your most embarrassing moment?
There’s quite a few, for sure, but nothing is really coming to mind right now.
14. Done anything daring?
Yes, stepping out of my comfort zone and taking part in a pageant. I had no experience and was nervous about putting myself out there, but I decided to challenge myself and go for it. It pushed me to grow in so many ways—learning to embrace confidence, handle pressure, and appreciate my own uniqueness. The experience not only boosted my self-esteem but also taught me the value of taking risks and embracing new opportunities, even when they feel intimidating.”
15. Your ideal vacation?
It would be to Paris. The city has such a magical vibe and, of course, exploring the magical Eiffel Tower is in my bucket list. Especially the city being a mix of history culture and modern life in a way that feels timeless, I find it to be the ideal vacation spot for me.
16. What kind of music are you into?
I love romantic songs. I’m drawn to its emotional depth and the way they express love, longing a connection. Whether it’s a slow ballad, a classic love song or a more modern romantic tune these songs speak to my heart.
17. Favourite radio station?
I don’t have a specific radio station that I like, but I tend to enjoy a variety of stations, depending on my mood. Sometimes I’ll tune into one for a mix of popular hits, other times I might go for something more relaxing, or a station with a certain vibe. So I just like to keep it flexible and switch it up.
18. Favourite TV station?
I hardly find the time to sit down and watch TV. But, whenever I do find a little spare time, I tend to do some spontaneous binge – watching, catching whatever interesting show is on at that moment.
19 What would you like to be born as in your next life?
Mmmm, I’ve actually not thought about it, but I’d love to be born as someone who gets to explore the world freely – perhaps a bird soaring across continents.
20. Any major plans for the future?
Let’s say preparing and participating in the international pageant happening in the USA this May. It’s an exciting opportunity to represent myself and my country on a global stage. Alongside this, I am dedicated to continuing my social service work as a title holder, striving to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others through my platform.
The formation of wrinkles and fine lines is part of our ageing process. However, if these wrinkles negatively impact appearance, making one look older than they actually are, then trying out some homemade remedies, I’ve listed for you, this week, may help in giving your skin a fresher look.
* Banana:
Bananas are considered to be our skin’s best friend. They contain natural oils and vitamins that work very perfectly to boost our skin health. Skincare experts recommend applying the banana paste to the skin.
Take a ripe banana and mash a quarter of it until it becomes a smooth paste. Apply a thin layer of the banana paste on your skin and allow it to sit for 15 to 20 minutes before washing it off with warm water.
* Olive Oil:
Olive oil works as a great skin protector and many types of research suggest that even consuming olive oil may protect the skin from developing more wrinkles. Olive oil contains compounds that can increase the skin’s collagen levels. Yes, olive oil can be used as a dressing on your salads, or other food, if you want to consume it, otherwise, you can apply a thin layer of olive oil on your face, neck and hands and let it stay overnight.
* Ginger:
Ginger serves to be a brilliant anti-wrinkle remedy because of the high content of antioxidants in it. Ginger helps in breaking down elastin, which is one of the main reasons for wrinkles. You can have ginger tea or grate ginger and have it with honey, on a regular basis.
* Aloe Vera:
The malic acid present in Aloe Vera helps in improving your skin’s elasticity, which helps in reducing your wrinkles. Apply the gel once you extract it from the plant, and leave it on for 15-20 minutes. You can wash it off with warm water.
* Lemons:
Lemons contain citric acid, which is a strong exfoliant that can help you get rid of your dead skin cells and wrinkles. Also, as an astringent and a cleansing agent, it helps to fade your wrinkles and fine lines. You can gently rub a lemon slice in your wrinkled skin and leave it on for 10-15 minutes. Rinse afterwards and repeat this process two to three times a day.
* Coconut Oil:
Coconut oil contains essential fatty acid that moisturises the skin and helps to retain its elasticity. You can directly apply the coconut oil, and leave it overnight, after gently massaging it, for the best results.
Sun directly overhead Hatthikuchchi, Kalankuttiya, Halmillewa, Ipalogama, Palugaswewa and Habarana at about 12:11 noon. today [10]
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