đ Duruthu Full Moon Poya Day
Duruthu Full Moon Poya Day, celebrated in January, marks the first full moon of the calendar year and holds immense spiritual significance for Sri Lankan Buddhists. It commemorates Gautama Buddha’s first visit to Sri Lanka, which occurred just nine months after his Enlightenment. The Buddha arrived at Mahiyangana in the Uva Province to settle a conflict between two warring tribes, the Yakkhas and the Nagas. His intervention not only restored peace but also introduced the island to his teachings for the first time. During this historic visit, the local deity God Sumana Saman attained the spiritual state of 'Sotapanna' and requested a token of worship. In response, the Buddha gifted a lock of his hair, which was subsequently enshrined in the Mahiyangana Stupa, the very first stupa built in the country.
Today, this sacred day is celebrated with great reverence. The most spectacular event associated with this Poya is the Kelaniya Duruthu Perahera, a magnificent procession held at the Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya featuring traditional dancers, drummers, and elephants. Furthermore, Duruthu Poya signals the beginning of the pilgrimage season to Sri Pada (Adam’s Peak). For devotees, this day serves as a powerful reminder of the Buddha’s message of peace and a time to engage in meditation and meritorious deeds.
