For the first time, Poson was celebrated at Parliament Hill in Canada on June 16, 2024. The event was hosted by Member of Parliament for Nepean, Ontario Chandra Arya. The High Commission of Sri Lanka in Ottawa initiated and organized this significant event in collaboration with the Sri Lankan temples and community, recognizing the cultural importance of Poson to Sri Lanka.
Several esteemed Buddhist monasteries and cultural centers participated in the celebration, including Hilda Jayawardenaramaya Buddhist Monastery in Ottawa, Theravada Buddhist Vihara and Cultural Centre, Ottawa Buddhist Vihara, and Sri Sambuddhagaya Vihara in Montreal.
Parliamentarian Chandra Arya addressed the gathering, emphasizing the necessity of preserving the cultural heritage of Sri Lankan Buddhists. Ven. Kekunadure Hemalankara Thero spoke on the significance of Poson to Sri Lankan Buddhists, while the Ambassador of Nepal to Canada Bharat Raj Paudyal highlighted the importance of Buddhism. Indian Deputy High Commissioner Chinmoy Naik traced the history and spread of Buddhism from India to other countries and underscored the strengthening of bilateral relations between India and Sri Lanka through religious tourism. Acting High Commissioner of Sri Lanka in Canada Anzul Jhan, expressed her gratitude to MP Arya for providing the Sri Lankan community with the opportunity to celebrate this important event at Parliament Hill. She commended the leadership of the Buddhist temples in Ottawa and Montreal and the community for their role in organizing this event. She also recalled the traditional Poson celebrations in Sri Lanka and expressed her appreciation for the community’s dedication and commitment to recreating the Poson spirit through decorations at Parliament Hill.
The event commenced with guided meditation led by Ven. Nugagalayaye Jinanada Thero, followed by chanting of Pirith. The program included Bhakthi Gee, Screening of documentary on Poson, several devotional dance performances, and contributions from community members. The children showcased their artworks on the significance of Poson, and there was also a Poson greeting card drawing booth. A "Saruwath Dansala” was also organized as part of the celebrations.
Sri Lanka High Commission
Ottawa
24 June 2024
