Sri Lanka received the noble teachings of Buddhism on a Poson Full Moon Poya Day like today, transforming the trajectory of the nation.

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake stated this in his Poson Full Moon Poya Day message.

The President noted that the arrival of Arahat Mahinda Thera established Sri Lanka as a hub for Theravada Buddhist philosophy and tradition, creating a spiritual awakening and a broad social transformation that laid the groundwork for an advanced cultural, social, and political order.

Buddhism laid a resilient foundation for national growth and reformed education by establishing temples as hubs of knowledge, whilst inspiring advancements in architecture, painting, irrigation engineering, building design, and wood carving.

The President emphasised that current generations hold a responsibility to restore fading societal values and build a civilised State, a process underway through efforts to bring civility back to Parliament and State institutions.

The message highlighted that true progress requires an ethical foundation, as demonstrated by the gradual training and discipline outlined in the Cūḷa Hatthi Padôpama Sutta expounded by Arahat Mahinda Thera.

President Dissanayake invited all citizens to unite in re-establishing this civilised legacy to build a modern State rooted in ethical, social, and environmental values, wishing that the sacred festival brings compassion, loving-kindness, and wisdom to all.