Poson Poya: Celebration In Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka celebrated Poson Poya on June 10–11, 2025, marking over 2,000 years since the arrival of Buddhism on the island.
- 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 is a spiritual tradition founded by Siddhartha Gautama (the Buddha) in the 6th century BCE in India.
