AMN
Sri Lanka is immersed in the festivities of Poson Poya Day on Saturday. The festival marks the arrival of Buddhism in the country over 2,000 years ago and holds immense importance for the Buddhist community. Poson Poya Day stands as the second most significant Buddhist celebration in Sri Lanka, following Vesak.
Poson Poya Day, celebrated on the full moon day of June, commemorates the pivotal moment when Arahat Mahinda, the son of Emperor Ashoka, converted King Devanampiyatissa to Buddhism. The main centers of celebration are the ancient monastic complex at Mihintale, and Anuradhapura, which attract large crowds of pilgrims.
Bathed in white attire, devotees embark on a spiritual journey by climbing the steps to Mihintale hill. Many pilgrims ascend to the summit of the rock, where Arahat Mahinda delivered his profound sermons, honoring the origins of Buddhism in Sri Lanka.
The celebrations across the island feature mass religious observances and illuminations. Streets, homes, and public places are embellished with intricately designed paper lanterns and pandals depicting episodes from the Buddha’s life.
During the Poson period, various religious activities are organized across Sri Lanka, including Sil campaigns, Bodhi Poojas, and Dansalas, where free food and beverages are distributed to the devotees.