The Unity Vesak 2012 - celebrations held at Mel Lastman Square today drew large crowds, estimated at over 1700 people who witnessed a noble display that was truly multicultural. The celebration was the brainchild of Consul General for Sri Lanka in Toronto, Mr. Karunarathna Paranawithana with the collaboration of Maha Sangha and leaders of all the Buddhist Temples and communities in Canada. It was a diverse spectacle enjoyed by the multitude of people in weather conditions that may be called “ideal” for the occasion. The event brought together a coterie of Maha Sangha from across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) for the first time in this great city of ours.  H.E. (Mrs.) Chitranganee Wagiswara, High Commissioner for Sri Lanka in Canada was present to support the efforts of the Consul General and his team.

Rev. Dr. Bhante Saranapala in his address said that as Buddhists, this event is a special time to gather together and commemorate the Birth, Enlightenment, and Passing away of the Buddha. “Let us resolve to work together towards the common good, and the harmonious and peaceful co-existence of the entire world’s people. As we listen to the Buddha’s teachings, let us embrace his advice and diligently strive to live a moral, ethical, and noble lifestyle”, he added.

In his welcome address, Consul General Paranawithana thanked the Maha Sangha, and the volunteer committee that collaborated with him to plan and execute the event. “Following the suggestion from various Buddhist communities in Canada, the Office of the Consulate General of Sri Lanka volunteered to organise the ‘Unity Vesak 2012′ for the first time in Toronto. I take this opportunity to thank all the members of Maha Sangha and the leaders of all the Buddhist Temples and communities in Canada who gave support to make this event a success”, said Mr. Paranawithana.