Have a great day, all hive friends!

Two days ago, last Friday, was a special day for Sri Lankans. It marked an annual festival held by Sri Lankan Buddhists to celebrate the arrival of Buddhism in Sri Lanka in the 3rd century BCE. This significant event commemorates the introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka by Mahinda Thero, the son of Emperor Ashoka.

This festival, Poson Poya Day, is the most important Poya (Full Moon) holiday of the year and the second most important Buddhist holiday overall. As a result, special Buddhist festivals are held all over the country on this day."

The day started with great respect. Early in the morning, my child, husband, and I left to see the Poson Festival. The roads were decorated with colorful decorations, and it is a tradition for our people to give various food and drinks free of charge for alms. As we approached the festival grounds, we were greeted by the sight of beautifully arranged Vesak kudus (lanterns), each one depicting scenes from the life of the Buddha. While these lanterns are most beautiful at night when they are illuminated, we still appreciated their intricate designs in the morning. We then visited temples and performed puja (ritual offerings).

Next, the dansala was a highlight of our visit throughout the day. It is a tradition to offer free food to all who come. This act of giving, or charity, is a fundamental principle of Buddhism and emphasizes the importance of altruism and compassion.

Then the night slowly approached. Vesak lanterns were indeed a sight to behold. These intricate lanterns, made from various materials like bamboo, paper, and cloth, showcased the creativity and devotion of the people. Some depicted scenes from the Jataka stories, which are tales about the Buddha's previous lives, while others illustrated important events from his final life, such as his birth, enlightenment, and parinirvana. Prizes were also awarded for the best designs.

As we wandered through the festival, we came across various Buddhist displays and tables meticulously designed to educate and inspire. Monks from nearby temples were present, offering blessings and discussing the Buddha's teachings with the guests. The sound of chanting and the smell of incense filled the air, creating devotion and serenity.

Pozon Pohoya Day is more than just a historical celebration, it is a living tradition that inspires and brings people together. And it helped me heal mentally. Our time at Pozon was a profound reminder of the enduring power of Buddhism and the importance of compassion, generosity, and community. When we left the event, we took away not only the memories of a beautiful day, but also a new sense of purpose and connection to our cultural and spiritual heritage.

Thank you reading

Best Regards,

Samadi Madushanki .