Poson Festival

06/06/2016

Celebrating the day Buddhism was introduced to Sri Lanka, Poson poya day is much important event and dates back in 3rd Century BC when king Devanampiyatissa was converted to Buddhism by Arahat Maha Mahinda, the son of Emperor Asoka, after which Buddhism was declared the State religion in Sri Lanka. The entire country celebrates this significant milestone, but it all culminates at Mihintale, known as the cradle of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, for it is believed to be there that the conversion took place. In fact it is in the Ambasthale Dagoba, the temple in Mihintale, accessible by 1840 steps, that it is in believed that the historic encounter took place. On Poson poya day, many devotees make their way to temple to spend reflective hours in meditation while there are also several sil campaigns, Dan Sal (Provide food & refreshment for the people as a charitable act), Poson devotional songs among others.