Month Of August – By Malsha – eLanka
August is the eighth month of the Gregorian calendar, which is the calendar used by most of the world today. It has 31 days and is known for being a summer month in the Northern Hemisphere and a winter month in the Southern Hemisphere. The name “August” was derived from the Latin word “Augustus,” which means “majestic” or “venerable,” and it was named after the first Roman emperor, Augustus Caesar.
Various holidays and observances are celebrated during August in different countries, but some well-known ones include:
- International Youth Day (August 12)
- Independence Day in several countries, such as India (August 15) and Indonesia (August 17).
- Assumption of Mary (August 15) – a Christian feast day.
- World Humanitarian Day (August 19)
- National Dog Day (August 26)
August is also associated with summer vacations and back-to-school preparations in many parts of the world. Keep in mind that specific events and observances might vary from year to year, so it’s always a good idea to check the most current calendar for accurate information.
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History of August
In ancient times, the Roman calendar began in March, and August was originally called “mens sextilius,” the sixth month of the year. However, around 700 BCE, the Roman king Numa Pompilius introduced the months of January and February, expanding the calendar to twelve months and reducing Sextilis to 29 days.
In 154 BCE, due to a rebellion, the Roman senate decided to change the start of the civil year from March to January 1st. As a result of this reform, Sextilis officially became the eighth month.
In 46 BCE, Julius Caesar introduced the Julian calendar, which included a leap day and added ten days to the year. Under this new calendar, Sextilis was extended to 31 days.
In 8 BCE, the Roman senate renamed Sextilis to honor Augustus Caesar, the first Roman emperor. The title “Augustus” was not his name but rather a term meaning “the great” or “the venerable.” This title was given to Gaius Caesar Octavius in 27 BCE to acknowledge his military and political achievements that led to the foundation of the Roman Empire. As a result, the month of August carries the name of this influential ruler to this day.
In Sri Lanka, the month of August holds special significance due to several cultural, religious, and historical events and observances. Some of the notable events during August in Sri Lanka include:
- Nikini Poya: Nikini Poya is an important Buddhist religious observance in Sri Lanka, celebrated on the full moon day of August. Buddhists engage in various religious activities such as visiting temples, listening to sermons, and engaging in acts of merit.
- Sri Lankan Independence: Sri Lanka gained independence from British colonial rule on February 4, 1948. Independence Day celebrations in Sri Lanka occur annually on February 4th, and the entire month of August is often a time for patriotic and nationalistic sentiments as Sri Lankans commemorate their freedom and sovereignty.
- Kandy Esala Perahera: The Kandy Esala Perahera is one of the grandest religious festivals in Sri Lanka and takes place in the city of Kandy. This vibrant cultural event, which typically occurs in July or August, features traditional dancers, fire performers, beautifully adorned elephants, and a grand procession of the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha.
- International Left Handers Day: Celebrated worldwide on August 13th, this day acknowledges the uniqueness of left-handed individuals. While not specific to Sri Lanka, it is observed in the country as well.
- Raksha Bandhan: Although not a Sri Lankan cultural event, the Hindu festival of Raksha Bandhan, which celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters, is also observed in Sri Lanka, where a significant Hindu population resides.
Additionally, August is often a time for school holidays in Sri Lanka, coinciding with the summer vacation period. Families often plan trips and outings during this time, making it a cherished month for spending quality time with loved ones and enjoying the island’s natural beauty and attractions.
In Sri Lanka, one of the most significant festivals that takes place in August is “Nikini Poya.” Poya is a term used in Sri Lanka to refer to the full moon day of each month, and Nikini Poya is the name given to the full moon day that falls in August.
Nikini Poya is an important Buddhist religious observance in the country. On this day, Buddhists in Sri Lanka participate in various religious activities to commemorate significant events related to the Buddha’s life and teachings. These activities may include visiting temples, listening to sermons (dhamma talks), and engaging in acts of merit such as offering alms to monks and engaging in meditation and prayer.
During Nikini Poya, many temples across the country hold special ceremonies and cultural events. Buddhists also observe sil (precepts) on Poya days, where they abstain from certain activities, practice mindfulness, and adhere to moral principles.
Apart from Nikini Poya, there might be other cultural and religious festivals or events that take place in August in Sri Lanka. These events can vary depending on the specific region and the communities residing there. For instance, the Kandy Esala Perahera, a grand cultural and religious festival that features a majestic procession of the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha, often occurs in July or August in the city of Kandy.
It’s essential to check local calendars and events for specific festival dates and activities in Sri Lanka during the month of August.
