Deputy Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious, and Cultural Affairs Gamagedara Dissanayake has announced special guidelines for this year’s Vesak festival to ensure celebrations remain respectful and in line with tradition.

The move follows concerns raised over inappropriate cultural expressions during recent New Year festivities. Authorities say the guidelines aim to prevent similar issues during Vesak and maintain its spiritual significance.

District and divisional officials, along with the Maha Sangha, have been instructed to implement the measures. Vesak Poya falls on May 30, with Vesak Week observed from May 27 to June 2.