Religious observances mark Nikini Poya

Today is Nikini Full Moon Poya Day which marks several significant incidents in the history of the Sasana.

It is connected with the Rain Retreat (Vas), where the Buddhist monks are fully assigned to live indoors. It also marks the conduct of the first Dhamma Sangayanawa, Convocation. This was held three months after the passing away of The Buddha. Five hundred Arahat Theras participated in the Sangayanawa, which was held over seven months in the cave at the food of the Rajagahanuvara Vehara Rock. Lord Budhdha advised his disciples to spread the Buddhist Doctrine and the Message of Noble Dhamma to Mankind in a Nikini full moon Poya Day.
In Sri Lankan Buddhist history another important event that took place on Nikini Full Moon Poya Day Day was the laying of the foundation stone for Seruwila Chaitya.
The Nikini Perahera at the Seruwila Raja Maha Vihare also commenced on a Nikini Poya. Religious ceremonies are being held in almost all temples throughout the country to mark this religious day. These include the sil and meditation campaigns and the offering of alms.
The Dhamma Sermon Pinkama organized under the patronage of the President on every Poya Day was held at the President’s House in Kandy. The Dhamma Sermon was delivered by Chancellor of the Buddha Sravaka Bikkhu University in Anuradhapura, ther Ven. Agga Maha Panditha Prof. Thumulle Seelakkanda Nayake Thera. First Lady Shiranthi Rajapaksa and several Parliamentarians were present.
The Poya “Savanak Res” programme telecast live by ITN was aired today from the Medawala Raja Maha Vihare in Kandy. A series of religious observances were organized at the Vihare.