According to Buddhist chronicles, the first Sangha Council of the Buddha Sasana was held at the Veluwanaramaya in Rajagaha on a Navam Full Moon Poya Day. It was on this day that Venerable Sariputta and Venerable Maha Moggallana were conferred the positions of the Chief Disciples (Aggasavaka) by the Buddha.
The day is also marked by the Buddha’s delivery of the Ovāda Pātimokkha, a fundamental discourse outlining the core principles of the Buddhist monastic discipline.
In addition, Buddhist history records that the Buddha renounced the life force (Āyusankhāra) three months prior to attaining Parinibbana on a Navam Full Moon Poya Day.
To mark Navam Full Moon Poya, religious observances including Amisa and Pratipatti offerings are being held at temples across the island, with devotees participating in various religious activities.
