Buddhists all over the country celebrate Poson Poya today, June 25 as it is the day that the Arahat Mihindu Thero visited Sri Lanka and spread the message of the Buddha during the reign of king Devanampiyathissa.
This set in motion a series of events that finally made Sri Lanka the stronghold of Theravada Buddhism. Issuing a message to mark the Poson Poya Chief Incumbent of Atamastana Venerable Pallegama Siri Nivasa Thera says the ethical qualities mentioned in the Dhamma that was taught by Arahat Mahinda Thera should be practiced by Sri Lankans to spread harmony among the society.
President Mahinda Rajapakse in his Poson message points out an environment has now been created in the country to create an ethical society mentioned by Arahat Mihindu Thero. The president says that he is committed to ensure equal rights for every citizen. The Poson Poya Dharma Desana will be held at the Temple Trees under the patronage of the president from 9 am to 10 am. The SLBC has made arrangements to broadcast it live on city FM service.
Prime Minister D.M. Jayaratne in his Poson message says that the time has come for all Buddhists to unit themselves to create a religious, cultural and ethical revival in the country. Many religious observances have been organized in Temples situated throughout the island to mark the Poson Poya Day. The Sinhala National Service of SLBC will broadcast live the religious observances held at Anuradhapura and Mihinthalaya.
Source: www.slbc.lk
