The Chief Prelates of Sri Lanka’s three Buddhist Chapters have sent a letter to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake requesting that the date of Vesak Poya in 2026 be revised.
The letter states that in May 2026, two full moon Poya days fall on May 1 and May 30.
According to the calendar already issued by the Ministry of Public Administration, May 1 has been designated as Vesak Poya Day, while May 30 has been marked as Adhi Poson Poya Day.
However, since the auspicious “Visa Nakath” does not fall on May 1, there has been considerable public debate about recognizing that day as Vesak Poya.
The Chief Prelates, after consulting senior Sangha councils and astrologers, have decided in line with traditional Buddhist practice that Vesak Poya should be observed on May 30, when the Visa Nakath occurs.
Accordingly, the letter further notes that May 30, 2026, should be officially declared as Vesak Poya Day, and that all traditional religious observances and state ceremonies connected with Vesak should be scheduled for that date, with instructions issued to the relevant government authorities. (Newswire)
