Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the preventive measures imposed by the health authorities, the government and the Buddhist monks requested the people to limit Vesak celebrations to their homes. Against this backdrop, some vendors were seen selling Vesak lanterns and decorations in and around Colombo despite the curfew. They said the prices of decorative items have increased due to unavailability of ample supply. Pix by Rekha Tharangani Fonseka