Sanghamitta Maha Perahera: Peace & Prosperity For The Village

The Sanghamitta Maha Perahera are major religious and cultural processions in Sri Lanka, held locally to commemorate the 249 BCE arrival of Sanghamitta Theri, the daughter of Emperor Ashoka of India and a Buddhist nun, who played a pivotal role in the introduction and establishment of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. The processions celebrate her contributions to Sri Lankan Buddhism, particularly the establishment of the Bhikkhuni Sangha (order of nuns) in Sri Lanka and the bringing of a branch of the Bodhi Tree from India to Sri Lanka.

The Bodhi Tree is one of the most sacred trees in the Buddhist tradition. It is associated with the place where Siddhartha Gautama — who later became the Buddha — attained enlightenment (nirvana). The tree holds profound significance as a symbol of wisdom, enlightenment, and the path to liberation. According to Buddhist tradition, he sat under the tree for 49 days meditating and seeking answers to the nature of suffering, life, and death. After this period of deep meditation, he attained full enlightenment, thus becoming the Buddha.

In Unakuruwa, the procession is held annually on the Poho Day of the Unduwap month (the month of the Sinhalese lunar calendar which falls into December/January of the Gregorian calendar) to express gratitude for the spreading of Buddhism in Sri Lanka and the establishment of its monastic institutions. It is also hoped that it will bring peace and prosperity to the village. Various traditional Sri Lankan dance performances are part of the procession, symbolizing the harmony between Buddhism and Sri Lankan culture. Colorful flags representing Buddhist teachings and symbols of Sri Lankan Buddhism are also carried along. This year, being held for the 14th time, on December 28th, it started from the village limits and proceeded towards the Seenimodara Jayasumanaramaya Maha Wiharaya temple. The event is also a reminder of the Buddha's teachings and the importance of mindfulness, compassion, and respect for all living beings, which are central values in the Buddhist tradition.

By the way, the branch of the Bodhi Tree was planted in Anuradhapura — an ancient city located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka and one of the country's ancient capitals. It is a profound symbol in the Buddhist tradition and Sri Lankan Buddhists consider it a precious sacred treasure.




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