Why in News? 

• Sri Lanka is celebrating the festival of Poson Poya. 

Poson Poya Festival in Sri Lanka

• Occasion: Poson Poya commemorates the arrival of Buddhism in Sri Lanka over 2,000 years ago when Arahat Mahinda preached to King Devanampiyatissa at Mihintale. 
• Historical Significance: It marks the introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka in the 3rd century BCE, transforming religious, cultural, and social life. 
• Main Celebrations 
  • Thousands of devotees gather at sacred sites like Mihintale Hill and Anuradhapura. 
  • Streets are decorated with lanterns, and free food stalls (dansals) are set up. 
  • Special ceremonies include offerings at temples, meditation, and religious pageants. 
• Government and Cultural Events 
  • President Anura Kumara Dissanayake emphasized national unity and moral revival in his message. 
  • The Indian High Commission organized a Buddhist heritage exhibition at Colombo’s National Museum. 
  • Free train services are operating to assist pilgrims, connecting Anuradhapura and Mihintale. 
• Festival Values: Poson Poya promotes values of non-violence (ahimsa), kindness, and unity. 
• Importance: The festival is second only to Vesak in Sri Lanka's Buddhist calendar, celebrating the introduction of Buddhism and its impact on Sri Lankan culture.