PM's Poson Day message

Poson Pasalosvaka Poya day can be described as the day on which Buddhism was introduced to Sri Lanka, said Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapakse in a message to mark Poson.

The release: "I wish to extend my sincere greetings to the Buddhists celebrating the wonderful Poson festival.

A sasanic process was born in this country under the guidance of Arahat Mahinda Thera with Royal patronage. As a result, Buddhism has taken root in Sri Lanka. Thereafter cultural centres were set up in this country under the leadership of Buddhist monks giving birth to a righteous society.

The advent of Arahat Mahinda not only resulted in the introduction of Buddhism to this country but also the birth of a civilised society and development of literature, constitution, economic and social sectors.

But the culture introduced to this country by Arahat Mahinda seems to have eroded today. The sense of patriotism seems to be breaking apart. All inhabitants are clinging onto various views and ideas and creating various economic and social problems in this country resulting in natural, religious, social and cultural degeneration.

The sense of belonging and humanism has been destroyed and our culture has been degenerated because we have abandoned the culture introduced by Arahat Mahinda Thera.

Therefore there are some important things we should remember on this day. We are commemorating the advent of Arahat Mahinda Thera. Buddhism wishes health and happiness for all beings.

In Buddhism there are no differences as to race, caste, religion or any other. Equality is the moral of Buddhism. The culture introduced to us by Arahat Mahinda teaches to resolve problems through discussion and dialogue. Since making clashes and setting the country on fire is not the essence of Buddhism I believe the Poson season is the most appropriate season for us as a nation to shed wrong beliefs and gain wisdom to act pragmatically according to Buddhism.

Wish you all a happy Poson festival."