Buddhism and Sri Lanka has a close relation for centuries. It is quite
a task to exactly pinpoint the time and date when the Buddhism started
flourishing in the island but it is generally thought that Emperor Ashoka
had sent his son Crown Prince Mahendra and his daughter Sanghamitra
to the island for the introduction of Buddhism there. Poson Festival
in Sri Lanka celebrates the introduction of Buddhism in the island.
In this island country, Buddhism belongs to the Theravada tradition.
Most of the Sinhalese people (around seventy one percent) are followers
of Buddhism. And though now the number of regular practitioners of this
religion has dwindled, in Sri Lanka is the country Buddhism is still
flourishing strongly. Theravada has been the major religion in the island
since soon after its introduction by Prince Mahindra during the reign
of Sri Lanka's King Devanampiyatissa. During his reign, a bodhi tree
sapling was brought Sri Lanka and came to be known as Sri Maha Bodhi.
Poson Festival has the erection of pandals, almsgiving to pilgrims and
religious observances as part of the rituals of this festival. The festivities
are mostly centered in the sacred monastic complex of Mihintale. Buddhist
people in Sri Lanka believe that Sri Lanka observes the purest form
of Buddhism in the world today.Some believe that the Sri Lankan God
Saman, has been appointed as the protector of Buddhism in the island
by none other Lord Buddha himself. On Poson Festival day the main centers
of celebration are Anuradhapura and Mihintale. Several processions are
held in many parts of the country to mark the visit of Arahat Mahinda
Thera (Prince Mahindra) who introduced Buddhism to the pearl island.
All men, young and old take part in the solemn festivities, that are
carried on for the day. Since religion is the central point of this
festival, there should be no element of surprise in the fact that it
the Lord himself and his teachings that are remembered with reverence.