(COLOMBO, LANKAPUVATH) –Covid-19 has changed the way Vesak is observed this year as a nation, all its citizens will celebrate it with families, from the safety of their homes. The day is an opportunity to reflect not only on the life of Lord Buddha, but on the journey that all of us are on with the hope of a new beginning post this pandemic.
With that sentiment in mind, the team behind Happy News (a joint initiative between Dentsu Grant Group and Swarnavahini Live@8) has started a movement for blessings, protection and hope this Vesak. They have appealed to all Sri Lankans to take this occasion to recognise and ask for blessings for the heroes that are on the frontlines battling the Covid-19 crisis to keep the people of this country safe.
Former Sri Lankan captain and wicket-keeper-batsman Kumar Sangakkara was featured on Happy News special Vesak day segment on Swarnavahini Live at 8 on 7 May, inviting all Sri Lankans to honour the people risking their lives—to keep others safe—by lighting four oil lamps. A trend that has already started gathering a momentum online.
Sangakkara highlights that each lamp he and his family have lit have different purposes. The first lamp is dedicated to honour and bless the doctors, nurses and healthcare workers, who are making a great sacrifice to safeguard our health. The second lamp for the tri-forces and the police who always risk their lives for us. The third lamp for the key workers who are working tirelessly for everyone’s safety, supplying essential services and making our homestay possible. And the fourth and last lamp for the health and well-being of everyone in Sri Lanka and the entire world burdened with this pandemic.
For everyone who would like to join Happy News, Kumar Sangakkara and honour the people who are risking their lives, by lighting four lamps, is encouraged to upload their stories on their own Facebook pages tagging www.facebook.com/happynewssrilanka, or on Instagram by tagging – instagram.com/happynewssl and YouTube – www.youtube.com/happynewssrilanka
