Poson Full Moon Poya marks the arrival of Arahat Mahinda Thera and the introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka during King Devanampiya Tissa's reign in the 3rd century BCE. The historic meeting at Mihintale led to Buddhism becoming the island's state religion. Today, Poson Full Moon Poya Day is one of Sri Lanka's most important Buddhist festivals.

When is Poson Full Moon Poya Day?

Poson Full Moon Poya Day is celebrated on the full moon in June.

The following is the list of Poson Full Moon Poya Day from 2020 to 2049.

The History of Poson Full Moon Poya Day?

Around the 3rd century BCE, Emperor Ashoka of India sent his son, Arahat Mahinda Thera, as a missionary to Sri Lanka. The mission was to spread the Buddha's teachings (Dhamma) beyond India.

On a Poson Full Moon Day, Mahinda arrived at Mihintale, a rocky hill near Anuradhapura, the capital of King Devanampiya Tissa.

King Devanampiya Tissa was hunting deer at Mihintale when he encountered Mahinda and his group of monks.

Mahinda tested the king's intelligence and readiness for the Dhamma by posing questions. Impressed by the king's wisdom, Mahinda preached the Chulla-haththi-padopama Sutta. King Tissa and his entourage embraced Buddhism.

After the king's conversion, Buddhism spread rapidly across the island. Temples and monasteries were built, including the first Mihintale monastery.

Buddhism became the state religion, shaping Sri Lanka's culture and values for over 2,300 years.