Today is the Poson full moon Poya day.
It is considered one of the most important days for Buddhists in Sri Lanka as it commemorates the arrival of Buddhism in the country in 236 BC.
Buddhist devotees in Sri Lanka celebrate the Poson full moon poya day while giving priority to religious observances.
Poson Poya Day is celebrated to commemorate the introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka by Arahant Maha Mahinda Thero in 236 BC.
Poson Poya is celebrated annually with great fervour throughout Sri Lanka but particularly in Mihintale where Mahinda Thero first put his foot to preach the word of Lord Buddha.
Various religious programmes are to be carried out today in Mihintale, Anuradhapura and Buddhist temples across the island.
Meanwhile, the Derana Media Network will provide media sponsorship for this year’s National Poson Festival being held in Anuradhapura.
Notably, this marks the 16th consecutive year—since 2009—that the Derana Media Network has partnered in organizing and promoting the religious festivities.
Derana Media Network will collaborate with the National Poson Committee, Sri Lanka Police, and the Anuradhapura Atamasthanadhipathi, Venerable Pallegama Hemarathana Thero, to make the Poson Festival a success.
As part of its contributions, Derana supported the installation of road sign boards and roadblocks in and around the Sacred City of Anuradhapura to facilitate smooth movement and safety of devotees.
Additionally, six police posts have been established for those engaged in traffic duties.
Meanwhile, the ‘Deranabhiwandana 2025’ programme at the Ruwanweli Maha Seya will be held throughout the day today.
Proceedings commenced at 5:45 a.m. with the ‘Sambuddha Pooja’ and ‘Seela Samadana’.
A range of religious observances—including Dhamma sermons, Dharma discussions, Sambuddha Pooja, and the blessing of the oil lamp by the pilgrimage poet Venerable Deegala Piyadassi Thero—will be broadcast live on TV Derana and FM Derana throughout the day.
In addition, the Aloka Pooja is scheduled to take place this afternoon at the outer ‘Bo Maluwa’ of the sacred Swarnamali Maha Seya and at the Salapathala Maluwa.
Devotees and pilgrims have been invited to take part in these revered ceremonies.
