Ill Poya is a public holiday in Sri Lanka. It usually falls in November in the Western calendar. It is the penultimate Poya of the year and marks the end of the rainy season and the conclusion of the three-month retreat (Vassana-Samaya).
Ill Poya, the end of Vassana-Samaya's retreat
This Poya celebrates the attainment of Vivarana (the assurance of becoming a Buddha) by Bodhisatta Maitriya and the commissioning of 60 disciples by the Buddha to disperse his teachings.
According to tradition, the foundation stone of Thuparamaya, the first stupa in Sri Lanka after the introduction of Buddhism, was laid on this day several centuries ago.
To mark the occasion, many Sri Lankan Buddhists will travel to this bell-shaped stupa in Anuradhapura to offer flowers and reflect on the Buddha's teachings.
Shops and businesses are generally closed on Poya days and the sale of alcohol and meat is prohibited.
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Today, Sri Lankans celebrate Ill Poya. This Poya celebrates the attainment of Vivarana and the commissioning of 60 disciples of Buddha to spread his teachings. #mythology #myth #legend #calendar #SriLanka #IllPoya
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