Speaking at a ceremony held at the Buddha Sasana Ministry yesterday on the occasion of issuing three stamps to mark the National Vesak Week, the Thera added "If true Buddhism is practiced, this will eventually lead the way to good governance in our country,"

"The Vesak festival celebrates the three major events in the life of the Buddha: his Birth, Enlightenment and Passing Away. Buddhism is a gift to human society, the wealth of Sri Lanka. As Buddhists it is our prime duty to protect it," he added.

Ven. Sobitha Thera said the main virtue which is developed through such amisa poojas is sadhdha or piety.

"It is with great enthusiasm and devotion that Buddhists engage themselves in amisa poojas to cultivate virtues such as sadhdha. People will decorate the streets, homes and buildings with colorful lights, lamps and lanterns and many other events will take place during the Vesak festival. These good practices will help the total elimination of evil deeds, purify one's mind and restrain one's body and words," he said.