Adhi Esala Full Moon Poya Day in Sri Lanka is a significant Buddhist festival held on the full moon of the Esala month in the Buddhist lunar calendar, which typically falls in July or August. This day commemorates the first sermon delivered by Gautama Buddha, known as the "Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta," after attaining enlightenment. It also marks the commencement of Buddha's teaching and the establishment of the Buddhist Sangha (monastic community).

History and Significance:

• First Sermon: After reaching enlightenment under the Bodhi tree, Buddha went to Sarnath, India, where he preached his first discourse to five ascetics.
• Establishment of Sangha: On this day, one of the ascetics became an Arahant (enlightened being), leading to the formation of the Sangha.
• Buddhist Teachings: The sermon set forth the Four Noble Truths and introduced the Noble Eightfold Path.

Traditions:

• Religious Observances: Devotees visit temples for Sil observance – taking precepts and participating in meditation, Dhamma talks, and prayer.
• Merit-Making Activities: People engage in giving alms to monks, participating in poojas (offerings), and providing food and necessities to those in need.
• Processions and Celebrations: In normal times without restrictions (e.g., due to pandemics), there may be colorful processions, including Peraheras (a procession involving elephants), especially in areas like Kataragama where Esala Perahera is famous.

Activities on Poya Day:

• Temple Visits: Buddhists dress in white clothing symbolizing purity and spend time at temples engaging in religious practices.
• Reflection: It's a day for reflection on one's life actions according to Dhamma teachings.
• Dhamma Listening: Listening to sermons about Buddha’s teachings is a common activity aiming at spiritual growth.

Adhi Esala Full Moon Poya Day is thus an important religious holiday that encapsulates key aspects of Buddhist beliefs and traditions while fostering communal harmony through shared acts of devotion.