Navam full moon poyaday usually falling in month of February .
A major sacred day for buddhist people .
Why ?
Key Historical and Religious Significance:
Appointment of Chief Disciples: The Buddha appointed Sariputta ("Dharmasenadhipathi" - General of the Dhamma) and Moggallana ("Dharmapuroitha") as his two chief disciples (Aggasavaka).
First Sangha Gathering: It marks the first-ever gathering of the Maha Sangha, where the Buddha announced a code of fundamental ethical precepts for monks, known as the Ovada Pratimoksha.
Important Preaching: It was on this day that the Buddha announced his upcoming Parinirvana, set to occur within three months.
Attainment of Arahatship: Venerable Sariputta attained Arahatship after listening to the Vedana Pariggaha Sutta.
On this poya day,
Buddhists visit temples
Observe Sil,
Participate meditation sessions .
As always,buddhist are doing a lot of charity works on this poya day too.
Buddhism is not just a religion .it is a philosophy to follow !
Let's make our life more peaceful with buddhism and its teachings .
Thai Pongal is a vibrant multi-day harvest festival celebrated by Tamils globally, typically falling in mid-January to mark the first day of the auspicious Tamil month 'Thai'. It serves as a profound thanksgiving ceremony dedicated to the Sun God, Surya, and nature for a bountiful harvest. The festival’s central tradition involves the ritualistic boiling of fresh harvest rice with milk and jaggery in a decorated clay pot until it joyously overflows. This spilling of milk is a powerful symbol of abundance and prosperity, prompting families to chant "Pongalo Pongal" in unison.
Homes are transformed for the occasion, cleaned thoroughly, and adorned with intricate 'Kolam' patterns made of rice flour and vibrant mango leaves. The celebration extends beyond the main day; 'Maattu Pongal' follows, specifically honoring cattle for their indispensable labor in agriculture. Bulls and cows are bathed, painted, and garlanded in gratitude.
Thai Pongal is more than an agricultural event; it is a spiritual renewal that strengthens family bonds and community ties. It encourages people to discard old grudges and embrace a future filled with sweetness, peace, and agricultural abundance.
January 4th marks World Braille Day, a global celebration of the braille system that empowers millions of visually impaired individuals worldwide.
Braille is more than just a writing system – it's a key to independence, education, and social inclusion. Developed by Louis Braille in the 19th century, this tactile language has revolutionized the lives of visually impaired people, enabling them to read, write, and communicate with the world.
Braille literacy opens doors to education, employment, and social opportunities. It fosters creativity, self-expression, and confidence, allowing individuals to contribute to society in meaningful ways.
Let's Celebrate!
On World Braille Day, let's recognize the resilience and achievements of visually impaired individuals and promote braille literacy and accessibility.
Learn braille, support organizations that promote braille education, or simply spread awareness about the importance of tactile literacy!
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.
