Poson Poya

About Poson Poya:

• Poson Poya is an annual Buddhist festival celebrated on the full moon day of June, second only in importance to Vesak in Sri Lanka.
• It marks the introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka in the 3rd century BCE by Arahat Mahinda, son of Emperor Ashoka of India, who preached to King Devanampiyatissa at Mihintale.
• This event is considered a turning point in Sri Lankan history, leading to significant religious, cultural, and social transformations.
• The festival is celebrated throughout Sri Lanka, but the main ceremonies are held at Mihintale and Anuradhapura, attracting thousands of pilgrims.
• Devotees dress in white, make offerings at temples, meditate, and participate in community activities such as dansals (free food stalls), lantern displays, and religious pageants.
• The festival promotes values such as non-violence (ahimsa), kindness, and unity.

Buddhism in Sri Lanka

• Buddhism is a spiritual tradition founded by Siddhartha Gautama (the Buddha) in the 6th century BCE in India.
• It emphasizes the path to enlightenment (nirvana) through ethical living, meditation, and wisdom.
• Core teachings include the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, guiding individuals to overcome suffering (dukkha).
• Buddhism arrived in Sri Lanka over 2,000 years ago during the reign of King Devanampiyatissa, marking a profound spiritual and cultural transformation.
• It was introduced by Arahat Mahinda, the son of Indian Emperor Ashoka, in 236 BCE on Poson Poya day at Mihintale.
• The king embraced Buddhism, leading to its widespread acceptance across the island. Temples, stupas, and monastic traditions flourished, making Sri Lanka a major center of Theravāda Buddhism.