Katina Pinkama - Noblest religious ritual

Hello buddies, today is a very special day for us as Buddhists, because the Katina Puja Ceremony of our temple, Sri Mihindu Buddhist Centre was held with the participation of Maha Sanga. Around 5.00 p.m., we all gathered at the home where Katina Cheewara was staying at.

The Katina Cheewara was then brought in procession to the temple and presented to the Maha Sanga in accordance with custom.

Venerable Akarawita Panchasara Tero of the Nandarama Vihara delivered the Katinanisansa sermon. Later, fifteen monks were offered arms in the morning. The offering of Katina Cheewara was conducted after this Morning's arms-giving.

Katina Cheevaraya is a web of cloth made in a day and presented to a Buddhist priest. Katina Puja, or the giving of new robes to Buddhist priests, is a long-standing religious custom in all countries where Tehravadhi Buddhism is practiced. On the Vap full moon Poya day, Katina is offered to Buddha, And in Sri Lanka, Katina Pinkama ceremonies are held in Buddhist temples from Vap full moon Poya day to Ill full moon Poya day. According to the Buddha, this is the highest form of religious practice for Buddhists, where boundless merit can be gathered. Monks who successfully finish a period during the rainy season are eligible to acquire Katina Cheevaraya. For the "Savanak Piris," or four groups of the Buddhist society, namely "Bhikkhus," "Bhikkhunis," Upasaka, and Upasika, this three-month period is particularly significant. As it is the time of year during which they can acquire merit in a variety of ways. The Katina Cheevara pooja, or presenting of garments to the Maha Sanga, is the most significant of a number of specific religious events that Buddhists engage in.

Only one monk is eligible to receive Katina while multiple monks are observing Vas for the rainy season at the same location. However, a single devotee can offer any number of robes, but at various locations.

After presenting the Katinanisansa discourse, our Katina Pinkama concluded its service at 11:00 a.m. By taking part in this noblest religious ritual, the Upasaka and Upasika in our region can earn a lot of merits.

By taking part in this significant event, I too can earn countless virtues. Additionally, it aids with my mental development.

Thanks for reading.