Poson Poya

What Is Poson Poya?

Poson Poya is an annual Buddhist observance held in Sri Lanka. It marks the historical event of the introduction of Buddhism to the island by Arahant Mahinda, the son of Emperor Ashoka of India, in the 3rd century BCE. This day is considered the second most important Poya day for Sri Lankan Buddhists after Vesak, which commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Gautama Buddha.

The day is a public holiday across Sri Lanka, dedicated to religious practices, reflection, and community service. Observances focus on the historical narrative of how Buddhism became the prevalent religion in the country, profoundly influencing its culture, arts, and governance.

History and Origins of Poson Poya

The historical narrative of Poson Poya centres on Arahant Mahinda’s visit to Sri Lanka during the reign of King Devanampiya Tissa. According to historical chronicles such as the Mahavamsa, Arahant Mahinda arrived in Mihintale, a mountainous region near Anuradhapura, on a full moon day of the Poson month. There, he encountered King Devanampiya Tissa, who was on a deer hunt.

Arahant Mahinda engaged the king in a dialogue, famously posing a riddle about a mango tree to test his intelligence. Upon discerning the king’s understanding, Arahant Mahinda delivered his first sermon, the Chulla Hatthipadopama Sutta (The Shorter Discourse on the Simile of the Elephant’s Footprint). This interaction led to the king and his followers embracing Buddhism, initiating its widespread adoption throughout the island. The establishment of the Mahavihara monastery and the planting of the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi sapling in Anuradhapura further solidified the religion’s foundation.

How Poson Poya Is Celebrated

Poson Poya is observed with significant religious fervour and cultural activities across Sri Lanka. The primary focus of the day is on spiritual enrichment and demonstrating generosity.

Religious Observances

Many Buddhists visit temples to observe ‘Sil’, which involves adhering to an extended set of precepts (usually eight or ten, beyond the basic five). These observances include meditation, listening to sermons, and engaging in devotional practices. Temples are often crowded with devotees dressed in white, spending the entire day engaged in religious activities.

Pilgrimages and Cultural Displays

Mihintale, the site of Arahant Mahinda’s arrival, becomes a major pilgrimage destination, attracting thousands of devotees. Anuradhapura, the ancient capital, also sees large gatherings at its historical Buddhist sites. Streets and public spaces are adorned with colourful Buddhist flags, lanterns, and elaborate illuminated arches known as thorana or pandals, which depict scenes from the Jataka tales (stories of the Buddha’s previous lives) or from the history of Buddhism in Sri Lanka.

Community Service (Dansals)

A notable tradition during Poson Poya is the organisation of dansals. These are temporary stalls set up by individuals, community groups, and organisations that offer free food, drinks, and sometimes other necessities to passers-by. This practice embodies the Buddhist principle of dana (generosity) and promotes a sense of community welfare and sharing. The offering of dansals is considered a meritorious act, reflecting compassion and altruism.

When Is Poson Poya?

Poson Poya is a moveable observance, as its date is determined by the lunar calendar. It falls on the full moon day of the Poson month in the Sinhala calendar. This typically corresponds to a date in June of the Gregorian calendar each year. As a full moon Poya day, it is consistently observed as a public holiday throughout Sri Lanka, allowing people to participate in its traditions and religious activities.

Poson Poya Key Facts