Hemapala Master’s gesture at Vesak

Anyone passing Dematagoda during Vesak, will not miss the huge Buddhist flag that has been a regular feature during Vesak for over six years. The creator of the flag is seventy-fiveyear old Hemapala Master who had been selling flags for over three decades. Master started his business on a small scale and then climbed the ladder. “I earned money by selling flags. Irrespective of race or religion, I made and sold flags. I wanted to make a huge flag as I thought it would be a wonderful sight during Vesak,” he said.

Hemapala Master said even today he does not know the cost t of the massive flag the size of which is 50 X 100. He said he made it up by attaching pieces of cloth which he bought in Pettah. Master said the stand for the flag costs around three lakhs and that for two years it was sponsored.

“Only the stand for the flag was sponsored. I never took or asked money from any one. But I make the flag with the help of many,” he said. He said although it was a Buddhist flag, the lady who is in charge in sewing it is a Christian. “That’s why I said irrespective of religion or race we work together,” he said. The Daily Mirror spoke to Hemapala Masters’ assistant Neesha. She said she has been working for Master for eight years. “There are many other o helpers who assist him. Once O I got the experience, with the th help of another, I managed to finish fin sewing the flag within four days. da I don’t get tired; maybe because be it is for a religious cause,” ca she said. Neesha said she too engages in sewing flags belonging to other religions. “Although a Christian engaged in sewing Buddhist flags, I would not hesitate to give my service to any other. Hemapala Masters’ children and many others work under him in finishing the flag. Master treats us as his children. On Vesak day once the flag is set, the feeling we get is wonderful–inexplicable, really” she said.

Pics by Nisal Baduge