Current Affairs - Festivity

Poson Poya is a significant Buddhist festival celebrated in Sri Lanka to honour the introduction of Buddhism to the island in the 3rd century BCE. It commemorates the moment when Arahat Mahinda, son of Indian Emperor Ashoka, delivered the first Buddhist sermon to King Devanampiyatissa at Mihintale. This event is regarded as the formal beginning of Theravāda Buddhism in Sri Lanka. Celebrations involve religious observances, illuminated streets, and pilgrimages to Mihintale and Anuradhapura. In 2025, the Sri Lankan government arranged special train services to facilitate pilgrim travel, and the Indian High Commission contributed with an exhibition on shared Buddhist heritage.

The Njattadi Festival, also known as the sapling festival, is celebrated in Kerala and was inaugurated by the state's Agriculture Minister. The term “Njattadi” originates from “Njattuvela” in the Malayalam calendar, which designates an auspicious period for sowing rice seeds. The festival blends agricultural significance with cultural expressions, featuring folk songs like Vanchipattu and Njattu Pattu, along with traditional dance performances. It highlights Kerala’s agrarian roots and promotes the importance of sustainable and timely farming practices.

The Shirui Lily Festival is celebrated in the northeastern state of Manipur, specifically in the Ukhrul district where the rare and endangered Shirui Lily (Lilium mackliniae) naturally grows. This unique pinkish-white flower blooms in the Shirui Hills and holds deep cultural and ecological significance. After a two-year break due to ethnic conflict, the festival's return in 2025 marks a step toward peace and cultural revival. The festival, first held in 2017, not only promotes ecotourism and conservation but also showcases the rich heritage of the Tangkhul Naga community through music, dance, and local traditions.

The ‘Garia and Borsho Boron Utsav 2025’ was inaugurated in the state of Tripura by its Chief Minister, Manik Saha. Held in Agartala at Swami Vivekananda Maidan, this two-day cultural event celebrates the traditions of the Tripuri and Reang communities. Central to the festival is the Garia Puja, a spiritual ritual dedicated to Lord Shiva (Mahadev), which holds immense cultural importance among Tripura’s indigenous population. The event features traditional dances, folk music, and other artistic expressions that showcase the state's cultural vibrancy. Prominent political leaders and community members participated, reflecting the significance of the celebration in preserving regional heritage.

Rongali Bihu, also known as Bohag Bihu, is a significant festival in Assam, marking the Assamese New Year and the beginning of the agricultural season. It is a vibrant celebration of spring, harvest, and Assamese identity, culture, and community spirit. The festival is observed across Assam, uniting people of all ages and backgrounds, and is an integral part of the state's cultural heritage.