cultural celebration Archives

The Significance of Poson Poya Day in Sri Lanka-by Kalani-eLanka Poson Poya Day, celebrated annually in June, is one of the most important Buddhist holidays in Sri Lanka. It commemorates the introduction of Buddhism to the island, an event that has profoundly shaped the nation’s culture, religion, and social structure. Here’s why Poson Poya Day holds such a special place in the hearts of Sri Lankans. The central significance of Poson Poya Day lies in its commemoration of the arrival of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. In 247 BCE, Arahant Mahinda, the son of the Indian Emperor Ashoka, traveled to Sri Lanka and introduced Buddhism to King Devanampiya Tissa. This event, which took place at Mihintale near Anuradhapura, is considered a pivotal moment in Sri Lankan history. The conversion of the king and his people to Buddhism marked the beginning of a new era for the island, influencing its spiritual and ...

Christmas – By Persis Ranasinghe Source : Qld Sri Lankan Newsletter – Dæhæna – December 2023 Christmas (or Feast of the Nativity) is an annual festival commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ, observed primarily on December 25 as a religious and cultural celebration among billions of people around the world. It is also a declared Public Holiday in many parts of the world. This photo represents what Christmas means as a family. Grandmother Persis is explaining to the three year old granddaughter Gabby the significance of the crib. Back then the families had to register a new born baby in their historical tribal town rather than where they lived. This also meant that Joseph and very pregnant Mary had to travel from Nazareth to Bethlehem, as this was the town that Joseph’s family (the royal family of David) originally came from – journey of about 112 kilometres. This journey was ...