Sri Lanka, Jan. 3 -- The first Poya day of the year, Duruthu Full Moon Poya, falls today (03), commemorating several pivotal events in the history of the Sasana.

This day holds immense importance as it marks the Buddha's inaugural visit to Sri Lanka, specifically to the "Mahanaga" grove in Mahiyangana, to mediate a conflict between the Yakkha and Naga tribes.

Initial resistance met the Buddha's arrival as the Yakkha tribes viewed the visitor as a threat and rose up in arms. To subdue them, the Buddha displayed miraculous powers by creating rain, lightning, and a great storm, eventually calming their fears.

Following the departure of the Yakkhas to Giri Island, God Sumana (Saman) requested a sacred object for worship; the Buddha offered...