Duruthu Poya Festivities And Cultural Insights In Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka's most colorful and lively festivities never cease to captivate tourists. Furthermore, every festival in Sri Lanka possesses cultural and traditional significance, providing a glimpse of the nation's legacy and culture to its thousands of attendees.

With four major religions practiced there, Sri Lanka celebrates festivals that honor the customs and cultures of each. Importantly, all Sri Lankans rejoice together in peace and harmony over the festival days.

Considered one of the best ways to truly experience Sri Lanka culture, Duruthu Poya is a celebration that commemorates Gautama Buddha's historic first visit to Sri Lanka and marks the country's introduction to the teachings of Buddhism

Scroll down to learn more details about this important Duruthu Poya day.

About Duruthu Full Moon Poya Day

This festival, which is observed all over Sri Lanka, is one of the most significant dates in the Buddhist calendar there. This day commemorates the Buddha's first visit to the island 2,500 years ago when he came to preach to two rival tribes. The violence stopped after hearing his teachings.

The local god Sumana Saman was so moved by the Buddha's teachings, according to ancient Sri Lankan traditions, that he invited him to leave his footprint on the summit of Samanala Mountain. Duruthu Poya Day marks the beginning of the three-month pilgrimage season, where people go to the mountaintop to worship at the Buddha's footprint.

Duruthu Full Moon Poya Day is observed all over Sri Lanka

When is Duruthu Full Moon Poya Day?

Celebrated on the first full moon of the year, usually in January, Duruthu Full Moon Poya Day is a significant public and religious event in Sri Lanka. For Buddhists, this day is very significant both historically and spiritually because it marks the first time that the Buddha visited Sri Lanka.

Duruthu Full Moon Poya Day 2025 occurred on Monday, 13 January. And in 2024 is Thursday, 25 January 2024.

What is Poya?

In Sri Lanka, every full moon is a public holiday. Every full moon has a unique name, and these are days to honor significant Buddhist anniversaries.

These full moon days are known as Poya. Every year, the dates of Poya will vary, and on certain occasions, they will fall one day ahead of or behind the full moon.

On Poya days in general and Duruthu Poya Day in particular, shops and businesses are usually closed and the sale of meat and alcohol is prohibited.

Learn More About The Duruthu Poya Importance

Significant events that happened on Duruthu Poya Day

On Duruthu Full Moon Poya Day, two important events are believed to have occurred: the offering of the Hair Relic to the god Sumana Saman and Gautama Buddha's first visit to Sri Lanka after guiding the haughty Kassapa brothers on the right path.

Settlement of the Dispute between Yakkhas and Nagas

At the time the Enlightened One first visited Sri Lanka, the inhabitants of the country were Yakkhas, who are said to be descendants of Rawana and his brother, Vibhishana, and also Nagas. Yakkhas and Nagas frequently confront each other. It is believed that God Sumana Saman invited Buddha to stop the fighting. It was on this invitation that the Enlightened One visited the Mahanaga Forest in Mahiyangana at a time when the Yakkhas were gathered there for a meeting.

Buddha Subjugates the Yakkhas

Standing in the Mahanaga Grove, the Buddha radiated a light that was more pleasant, clear, peaceful, and kind than the moonlight. The mixture of the six colors—blue, yellow, red, white, and crimson, and the color created by their combination—surround the Buddha in separate circles to form a halo. Because they believed the Buddha to be an intruder on their ancestral territory, the Yakkhas were ill-prepared to listen to him.

The Buddha frightened them with a monstrous storm that included lightning, rain, and a strong wind. The fearful Yakkhas believed that the Buddha was a godlike figure who had become submissive. They submitted to the Buddha and asked for forgiveness. Buddha called the leaders of the Yakkha and Naga tribes and admonished them.

With the first visit of the Enlightened One, Sri Lanka was made a suitable soil for Arahant Mahinda Maha Thera to establish Buddhism. Sri Lankan Buddhists are grateful to have pure Buddhism, which is a unique blessing that they enjoy.

Sri Lankan Buddhists are grateful to have pure Buddhism, which is a unique blessing that they enjoy

Activities On Duruthu Poya

Visiting Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya

Many devotees make pilgrimages to important Buddhist temples and shrines across Sri Lanka. One of the oldest temples in Sri Lanka, Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya, commemorates this special day with a grand procession on January's pre-full moon poya day. This is referred to as the "Duruthu Perahera." It is important to remember that the Duruthu Perahera is a component of the massive religious ceremony that the temple performs.

Beginning in December, the Duruthu Festival is a religious celebration that lasts for over a month. This colorful Duruthu Perahera, which is held consecutively for three nights, signifies the end of the entire celebration. Thousands of people go from all across the nation to the temple during these days to see this magnificent event, in spite of all the odds.

Nevertheless, because of its uniqueness and vibrancy, Duruthu Perahera has consistently been a favorite among tourists from all over the world. The procession itself is significant because it shows Buddhist customs and culture. The rhythmic displays of acrobats, drummers, and torchbearers, along with the traditional folk music and dances, are mesmerizing. Furthermore, you will be astounded by the gorgeous tranquility and the gorgeous jeweled elephants are sure to take your breath away.

• How to get there: Take any bus that is heading to Kandy from Pettah or Colombo. When you reach Kelaniya town, get off the bus and ride a tuk-tuk the rest of the way to the temple.

Many devotees make pilgrimages to important Buddhist temples and shrines across Sri Lanka

Dana (Charity)

Offering alms to monks is a common practice on Duruthu Poya. Devotees prepare and offer food, robes, and other requisites to the monastic community. This act of generosity is believed to accumulate merit and foster a spirit of giving.

Reflection

Individuals meditate, attend sermons, and engage in life sermons and mindfulness exercises. Share Duruthu Poya day wishes with family and friends as you have the opportunity to participate in these meaningful ceremonies.

Duruthu Poya is one of the most significant dates in the Buddhist calendar in Sri Lanka

Cultural Performances

Some other regions host cultural performances and processions, which may include traditional music, dance, and the carrying of sacred relics. These events are not only religious but also celebrate Sri Lankan heritage and community spirit. Capture these vibrant moments with Duruthu Poya photos to cherish and share.

Conclusion

With customs that have been upheld for generations, Duruthu Full Moon Poya Day embodies both historical respect for the Buddha's teachings and cultural displays.

Visitors to Sri Lanka on Duruthu Poya Day get the opportunity to experience a unique celebration that embodies the true spirit of the country. So, everyone has the chance to participate in the customs and culture of Sri Lanka.

Finally, but just as importantly, Sri Lanka will never let you down; it is a country full of festivities. For those looking to immerse themselves in the beauty and spirituality, visiting Sri Lanka during this time is an unforgettable experience. To make your journey seamless, apply for a Sri Lanka eVisa via our website. With a few simple clicks, you can ensure a seamless travel experience, without visiting the Embassy or Consulate.