Seasonal Events




Sri Lanka is a country full of rich cultural heritage, which is studded with many significant events, which has occurred in the past. The following is a breakup of such events happened in whatever the relevant months and the months are called by the traditional sinhala way of calling them.
  • Duruthu (January)
  • Navam (February)
  • Madein (March)
  • Bak (April)
  • Vesak (May)
  • Poson (June)
  • Esala (July)
  • Nikkini (August)
  • Binara (September)
  • Vap (October)
  • Il (November)
  • Unduvap (December)
Duruthu (January)
A major cultural events held during the month of January is the duruthu parahara, which is conducted by an ancient temple in kelaniya (Which is known as the Temple of Kelaniya situated in the suburbs of Colombo). This parahara is a colorful display, consisting of various acts, which epitomize the richness of cultural diversity found in sri lanka. This event coincides with lord buddha's visit to this country. (around 2500 BC)
Another important festival held during this month would be the Thaipongal festival, which is observed by hindus who worship sun god. This is held on the 14th of January
Perahera Gangaramaya
Navam (February)
Achievement of independence from the British on Feb 4 1948 is a major event in the annals of history. Sri Lanka Celebrates it's independence marked with various cultural and religious activities throughout the country.
Gangaramaya, Which is another temple found in the heart of Colombo conduct Navam Parahara, Which is a cultural, Religious (Buddhist) Parade of importance


The Month of march gives rise to the celebration of haji festival
Vesak (May)
It is belived that lord Buddha was born, attained the state of enlightenment and attained nibbna (Passed away), all in a specific day during this month. This day is recognized as the Vesak full moon poya day. UN officially recognizes this day as a holiday.

Vasak day is marked with religious observations, By Buddhists throughout the country. These religious observations include observing sil (adhering to the concepts of dhamma , ie- preaching of Buddha), Offering flowers to the relicts and statues of lord buddha Apart from that, Buddhists pay homage to lord Buddha by illuminating various types of lanterns, Pandols, Etc. During the night of the vesak day above mentioned lighting decorate the urban and most of rural areas making it a most pleasant sight. 

                                                        
Poson (June)
Poson is an important month to sri lankan Buddhists. It is during one such month, centuries ago Buddhism was introduced to sri lanka. History says that a disciple of Buddha by the name of mahinda, Shed the light of Buddhism to sri lanka.
                                                                                                          

This was done as an act of good will towards Sri Lanka initiated by the great emperor "Asoka" of India. Who sent his son mahinda thera (Thera= Buddhist Deciple ) to Sri Lanka
According to archeologists "Mihinthele" is the Place where Mahinda met King Devanang Piyatissa (Who was the king of Sri Lanka at that time). Today "Mihinthele" is a hive of religious activity during the month of poson. Though poson is not meted out with the same importance of vasak, it is still an event, which calls for attention.
Esala (July)
The most significant cultural attraction in this month is the Esala Perahara. This will be held in kandy.

                                                                                                  
Unduvap (December)
Sri Lankans celebrate nativity as with much grandeur as other religious festivities. The Month of December brings much joy to Christians and non-Christians alike, as the sprit of Christmas brings peace, compassion and happiness to mankind.
                                    
                                                     
                  
                                                   
                                                           

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