UN Türkiye and Sri Lankan Embassy mark Vesak Day in Ankara

The United Nations Türkiye and the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Ankara co-hosted commemoration of Vesak Day, bringing together diplomats, religious representatives, scholars, and members of the international community in Ankara for a celebration of peace, compassion, and spiritual heritage.

Vesak Day which officially fell on 12 May this year, marks the birth, enlightenment, and passing of the Buddha—three pivotal events in Buddhist tradition that continue to resonate around the world through their timeless messages of non-violence, mindfulness, and compassion.

The programme opened with the traditional lighting of the oil lamp, a symbol of spiritual awakening and wisdom. 

“In the face of the world’s challenges—be it conflict, climate change, displacement, or inequality—the Buddha’s message remains strikingly relevant. These are not just spiritual ideals; they are practical tools for building peace, advancing human rights, and fostering inclusive development” said UN Resident Coordinator Dr. Babatunde Ahonsi in his welcome remarks.

Dr. Ahonsi underlined the alignment between the Buddha’s teachings and the mission of the United Nations, particularly in promoting dignity, sustainability, and global solidarity. He also emphasized the relevance of Buddhist concepts such as interconnectedness, especially in the pursuit of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Ambassador Hasanthi Urugodawatte Dissanayake of Sri Lanka spoke on the global importance of Vesak and its recognition by the United Nations, which was made possible through UN General Assembly Resolution 54/115, adopted in 1999 at Sri Lanka’s initiative. The Ambassador noted that Vesak continues to serve as a platform for global unity, intercultural understanding, and shared spiritual reflection.

A message from Cardinal George Jacob Koovakad, Prefect of the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue at the Holy See, was read by Fr. Arnaud du Cheyron, Deputy Chief of Mission at the Embassy of the State of Vatican City. The message highlighted the vital role of interfaith dialogue in promoting peaceful coexistence and mutual respect among all peoples.

A unique feature of the Vesak Day event was a presentation by Doğukan Sakar, who introduced the Therīgāthā—the earliest known collection of contemplative poems composed by Buddhist women.

“The importance of the Therīgāthā is that it is the first record in any world religion of contemplative women speaking in their own voices,” Sakar explained. “Until now, there were no translations of the Therīgāthā collection in Turkish. I am proud to bring these women’s voices to Türkiye” he said. 

To honour this contribution, selected poems were read aloud in both Turkish and English, giving voice to ancient reflections that remain strikingly relevant. Among them was the powerful verse of Nun Sumangala, who spoke of her emancipation from domestic burdens and her spiritual awakening:

"I'm well freed, well freed,
so very well freed from the pestle!
My shameless husband popped up like a mushroom,
my mortar wafted like eels.
Greed and hate sizzle and hiss as I squelch them,
having gone to the root of a tree,
I meditate happily thinking, ‘Oh what bliss.’”