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Poya, the Celebration of the Full Moon at the Well House

Poya, a monthly Buddhist holiday in Sri Lanka, is a significant day for traditional Sri Lankan culture and society. This day marks the full moon day of each month, and it is a day where the Buddhist community gathers to engage in religious activities, including observing sil (a day of Buddhist meditation and mindfulness) and performing meritorious deeds. This piece explores the importance of Poya in traditional Sri Lankan culture and society, focusing on family, tradition, Singhalese superstitions, and Buddhism.

The Traditional Role of the Family

Family plays a crucial role in Sri Lankan culture, and Poya is a day that brings families together. On Poya day, Sri Lankan families gather at temples to participate in religious ceremonies and rituals, creating a sense of togetherness and unity.

Family members often offer dana (alms) to monks and make donations to the temple, emphasizing the importance of giving and sharing in Buddhism. Poya is also a day where families engage in meritorious deeds, such as donating to charity or volunteering, to earn good karma and positive merit.

Less and less young people adhere to the traditions of Poya, preferring to spend time of smart phones and enjoying day trips or weekend getaways. This is one reason why it is important to book the Well House at least 30 days before the next Poya; it is very likely to be booked out in advance.

The Role of Tradition and Superstition

Tradition is another essential aspect of Poya in Sri Lankan culture. The observance of Poya has been a tradition in Sri Lanka for centuries, dating back to the time of the Buddha. On Poya day, Sri Lankans follow various customs and rituals, including visiting temples and offering flowers, incense, and candles. Many families observe sil, a day of Buddhist meditation and mindfulness, where individuals refrain from engaging in worldly activities and focus on spiritual practices. This tradition is believed to purify the mind and cultivate inner peace and tranquility.

Singhalese superstitions also play a significant role in the observance of Poya in Sri Lanka. Sri Lankans believe that certain days are auspicious, and Poya is considered one of the most auspicious days of the month. Many Sri Lankans believe that good fortune comes to those who engage in meritorious deeds on Poya day. Additionally, some Sri Lankans believe that certain activities, such as cutting trees or washing hair, should not be done on Poya day as they may bring bad luck.

What is the Link Between Poya and Buddhism?

Buddhism is at the heart of Poya in Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka is a predominantly Buddhist country, and Poya is a day where the Buddhist community comes together to engage in religious activities. Buddhists believe that Poya day is an opportunity to reflect on the teachings of the Buddha and cultivate positive qualities such as generosity, kindness, and compassion. On Poya day, Sri Lankans offer dana to monks and engage in other meritorious deeds, emphasizing the importance of giving and sharing in Buddhism.

It is important to remember that Poya day is a significant day in traditional Sri Lankan culture and society. This means that many activities, café’s and retail outlets are not open on Poya. This ensures that It brings families together, emphasizes the importance of tradition, and reflects Singhalese superstitions. Moreover, Poya is a day that highlights the importance of Buddhism in Sri Lankan society, where individuals come together to engage in religious activities and reflect on the teachings of the Buddha. The observance of Poya is a testament to the rich cultural heritage and spiritual values of Sri Lanka, making it an essential aspect of the country’s identity.

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The importance of this piece of history may be seen in the Galle Maritime Museum and in the tri lingual plaque erected by Zheng He. A Muslim eunic of the Ming Emperor’s court, his presence in Sri Lanka on the Ming treasure voyages saw him install a puppet king in the southern Kotte Kingdom.

Was bedroom 2 ever known as a “Ghurfat Nawm, it’s Arabic name? Was the influence of Moorish traders brought home after work with the merchant who became very wealthy from his factories produce being exported from the port? We can never know, but we can take time out to consider the impact of sleeping quarters and living quarters over 140 years. As we relax into the space, history’s voice is ever there, but never disturbing our relaxation, rest or quiet enjoyment of Sri Lanka.

The first bedroom may well have been known as a “Woshi”, under the influence of the great Chinese Admiral who ensured the trading port grew in importance. His

esablishment of the ancient White Tea Agreement one of the world’s oldest commercial arrangements, established between Sri Lanka and the Ming Dynasty still holds validity today.

The importance of this piece of history may be seen in the Galle Maritime Museum and in the tri lingual plaque erected by Zheng He. A Muslim eunic of the Ming Emperor’s court, his presence in Sri Lanka on the Ming treasure voyages saw him install a puppet king in the southern Kotte Kingdom.

Guests will have a special experience as this double room provides a pool with a view. The roomy double comes with a private entrance, air conditioning, a terrace with views of the garden, and a 2 private bathroom with a shower. The unit has 2 bedrooms

Boasting a private beach area and views of pool, The Well House by Colonial Villas in Sri Lanka is a recently renovated villa situated in Unawatuna, 700 m from Bonavista Beach. This beachfront property offers access to a terrace, free private parking and free WiFi. The property has a garden, as well as a family-friendly restaurant that serves Chinese and Indian cuisine.

All units in the villa complex are fitted with a kettle. Some of the units have a satellite flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher, and a private bathroom with a shower and bathrobes. At the villa complex, units have bed linen and towels.

Guests at the villa can enjoy a continental breakfast.

Guests at The Well House by Colonial Villas in Sri Lanka can make the most of yoga classes offered in-house. A bicycle rental service is available at the accommodation.

Popular points of interest near The Well House by Colonial Villas in Sri Lanka include Jungle Beach, Japanese Peace Pagoda and Unawatuna Railway Station. The nearest airport is Koggala, 10 km from the villa, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.

The Well House by Colonial Villas in Sri Lanka has been welcoming Booking.com guests since 12 Dec 2022.