Duruthu Poya

What Is Duruthu Poya?

Duruthu Poya is the first Poya (full moon) day of the calendar year, observed predominantly in Sri Lanka. It commemorates a pivotal event in the history of Buddhism on the island: the first of three documented visits by Gautama Buddha to Sri Lanka. This event is believed to have taken place nine months after the Buddha’s enlightenment.

The observance is a significant cultural and religious occasion, marked by various traditional practices. It underscores the historical connection between the Buddha and Sri Lanka, preceding the official establishment of Buddhism during Poson Poya. Duruthu Poya serves as a reminder of the origins of Buddhist presence on the island.

History and Origins of Duruthu Poya

The historical narrative associated with Duruthu Poya details the Buddha’s visit to Mahiyanganaya, in central Sri Lanka. According to ancient texts such as the Mahavamsa, the Buddha travelled to the island to settle a conflict between two tribal groups, the Yakkhas and the Nagas. His presence and discourse led to the resolution of their disputes and the conversion of many individuals to his teachings.

During this visit, it is believed that the Buddha delivered a discourse and received a lock of hair from a local chieftain, Sumana Saman. This relic was then enshrined in the Mahiyangana Stupa, one of the earliest Buddhist stupas in Sri Lanka. This event is considered foundational, marking the initial presence of Buddhist thought on the island long before the formal arrival of Emperor Asoka’s son, Mahinda Thera, in the 3rd century BCE. The Poya calendar system, which organises the year around full moon days, designates the month of Duruthu (corresponding to January in the Gregorian calendar) as the period for this commemoration.

How Duruthu Poya Is Celebrated

Duruthu Poya is observed as a public holiday throughout Sri Lanka, allowing the population to engage in religious activities. As with all Poya days, special emphasis is placed on religious devotion and adherence to Buddhist precepts. Many Buddhists visit their local temples (Viharayas) to participate in religious services, listen to Dhamma sermons, and offer flowers and incense.

A common practice is to observe ‘Ata Sil’ or the Eight Precepts, which involve abstaining from eating after noon, engaging in entertainment, and using perfumes or adornments, among other things. Meditation and chanting are also prevalent activities. The sale of alcohol and meat is typically prohibited on Poya days across the country.

Duruthu Perahera at Kelaniya

A prominent feature associated with Duruthu Poya is the annual Duruthu Perahera (procession) at the Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya, located near Colombo. While the Poya commemorates the Buddha’s first visit to Mahiyanganaya, the Kelaniya temple is significant because it is believed to be the site of his third visit to the island. The Kelaniya Duruthu Perahera is a grand cultural spectacle that precedes the full moon day. It features elaborately caparisoned elephants, traditional drummers, dancers, and torchbearers, showcasing various aspects of Sri Lankan cultural heritage. This procession attracts numerous local and international spectators, acting as a vivid demonstration of devotion and cultural preservation.

When Is Duruthu Poya?

Duruthu Poya is determined by the lunar calendar and falls on the full moon day of the lunar month of Duruthu. In the Gregorian calendar, this typically occurs in January each year. While it is a fixed day within the lunar cycle, its corresponding date on the Gregorian calendar varies from year to year. The Poya calendar ensures that there is a full moon day observance every month, each with its own specific historical or doctrinal significance within Buddhism.

Duruthu Poya Key Facts